Natural Hazards Triggering Technological Accidents (Natech) are accidents triggered by the impact of natural hazards, such as earthquakes, floods, or storms, on a hazardous installation, and which involves the release of hazardous substances, fires or explosions. Most of the installations that process, store or handle hazardous substances can in principle be vulnerable to the impact of natural hazards. This brochure aims to raise awareness of Natech risks and the challenges associated with their management. Using examples, it highlights key characteristics of Natech accidents, and gaps and challenges in analysing and managing Natech risks. It also describes the work and resources of some international organisations to support improved understanding of and resilience to Natech.
