The classification of physical effects from natural hazards for Natech risk assessment based on a Japanese database

In this study, a descriptive classification of Natech risk sources was developed, mainly from analysis of a Japanese database, to contribute to preliminary analysis of Natech risk. Analysis of the information gathered, resulted in a classification including fifteen physical effects and six physical impacts that cause technical disorder. Here, the pertinent aspects of natural hazards were termed physical effects, and the phenomena caused by physical effects were termed physical impacts: the primary observable consequences and influences on the functions of technological systems. The classification is expected to be helpful for Natech risk identification, by providing guidewords useful for risk assessment and management.