ABSTRACT
Gone are the days when one could choose whether to work in a risky environment; when the adventurous sought excitement in working abroad or in dangerous industries. Daily events demonstrate how a “normal” operation in an environment which rarely experiences uncertainty can suddenly be overtaken by unforeseen events-from extreme weather to civil unrest to medical emergencies. In fact, the increasing complexity and speed of modern life, combined with the interconnectedness of global business, has significantly increased the probability critical events will occur-i.e., events outside the normal management paradigms. Critical events can disrupt key processes and systems, supply chains and assets, and destroy life and/or property-as well as brands, careers, and reputations.
