ABSTRACT
The third step in the risk assessment process is to prepare a vulnerability assessment of the assets that can be affected by a threat or a natural hazard (see Figure 13.1). Vulnerability is dened as any weakness that can be exploited by an aggressor, or natural disaster event, to make an asset susceptible to loss or damage. A vulnerability assessment is an in-depth analysis of the building functions, systems, and site characteristics. The assessment identies building weaknesses and the lack of redundancy that can increase potential damage resulting from man-made or natural disasters. During this step, an analysis of the assets will begin based on:
• Identied threat/hazard • Criticality of your assets • Level of protection you have chosen (i.e., your willingness or unwillingness to accept risk)
Are You Feeling Vulnerable? Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid ............................................................... 193 Identifying the Layers of Defense (Step 3: Task 3.1) .................................................................... 194 Understanding Redundancy Factors (Step 3: Task 3.2) ................................................................. 199
Cost Implications of Redundancy, Hardening, and Vulnerability .............................................200 Other Factors Affecting Vulnerabilities .....................................................................................200
Conducting the Site Inspection (Step 3: Task 3.3) ......................................................................... 201 Preparing a Vulnerability Portfolio (Step 3: Task 3.4) ................................................................... 201 Determining the Vulnerability Rating (Step 3: Task 3.5) ...............................................................202
