ABSTRACT
This chapter is concerned with the three features of the processes that give rise to Damage and Loss. The first is that damage always results from the application of energy to the damaged object or person. This is a fact of the physical universe and needs to be understood. Damage gives rise to loss because of the costs associated with recovery and lost opportunity. Loss also occurs in other ways, not associated with damage. The second feature of these processes is that they take time to occur. Understanding the time structure assists in evaluating the practicality of possible control measures. The third feature is that damage and loss do not occur predictably - the processes are not deterministic. The uncertainty associated with this gives rise to our use of the term 'risk'. Damage can be defined in general terms as an unwanted change to the desirable qualities of anything we value, be that tangible or intangible.
