Elsevier

The Journal of Emergency Medicine

Volume 8, Issue 5, September–October 1990, Pages 591-595
The Journal of Emergency Medicine

Selected topic Disaster planning
Definition and classification of disasters: Introduction of a disaster severity scaleDefinition et classification des desastres introduction d'une echelle d'evaluation de la gravite d'un desastre

https://doi.org/10.1016/0736-4679(90)90456-6Get rights and content

Abstract

In disaster medicine, a meaningful definition of the word disaster is lacking. A simple definition, using only two criteria, is proposed. Added to this, a classification scheme is formulated. Based on this definition and classification, a disaster severity scale is introduced. The methodology used is described, and the significance of these proposals is discussed.

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