A hazard is a potential source of harm that can cause damage to health, life, property, or any other interest of value. Hazards can be classified in several ways, such as natural, anthropogenic, technological, or any combination. The stored energy is a common theme across many forms of hazards that, when released, can cause damage. Hazards can occur in many forms, including chemical, mechanical, and thermal hazards. The probability of harm being realized in a specific incident, combined with the magnitude of potential harm, make up its risk, a term often used synonymously in colloquial speech.
In the context of workplace health and safety, a hazard is any source of potential damage, harm, or adverse health effects on something or someone. Hazards can cause adverse health effects, property or equipment losses, and other negative impacts. Hazards can be classified into different types, such as fire hazards, electrical hazards, and biological hazards.
In summary, a hazard is a potential source of harm that can cause damage to health, life, property, or any other interest of value. Hazards can be classified in several ways and can occur in many forms. Hazards can cause adverse health effects, property or equipment losses, and other negative impacts.
