Chapter 6 - Hazard Identification—Manmade Hazards

Abstract

Chapter 6 informs the reader of the wide spectrum of technological hazards that should be considered by every emergency manager planning mitigation strategies for his or her community. Technological hazards, or man-made hazards, are wide ranging and they emanate from manufacturing, transportation, and the use of substances such as radioactive materials, chemicals, explosives, flammables, pesticides, herbicides, and disease agents; oil spills on land, coastal waters, or inland water systems; and even debris from space. Detailed information on many of the most serious technological hazards is presented in the chapter. Chapter 6 also addresses the possibility that not all incidents are accidents. Terrorism, or the intentional use or threat of force to advance a cause or coerce a people or its government through fear is discussed. It is important for emergency managers and first responders to understand the interdependence of critical infrastructure and their vulnerability to attack. Vulnerability reduction of critical infrastructure and key assets should always be a focus of the mitigation strategies. Should an incident involving CBRNE occur, emergency managers and responders who understand the threat and are prepared for the response are more likely to reduce the overall consequences.