There are three hazard classifications for dams in general.
- Low Hazard (loss of life is unlikely and damage is limited);
- Significant Hazard (small possibility of loss of life, damage causes property loss and/or interrupts use of public utilities or roads); and
- High Hazard (loss of life is probable, serious damage to structures, important roads, public utilities or railroads).
Determining a Hazard due to Dam Breach The factors that must be considered in order to determine the hazard classification of a dam include, but are not limited to:
- The population-at-risk;
- Depth and velocity of flow against habitable buildings;
- Depth and velocity of flow over roads;
- Depth and velocity of flow in the presence of unprotected persons;
- Isolation of a population from emergency services;
- Damage to critical infrastructure;
- Economic loss; and
- Environmental damage.