Hazard Analysis
Hazard Analysis is a systematic process used to identify, assess, and mitigate potential hazards or risks in systems, processes, or products, particularly in safety-critical domains like aerospace, automotive, medical devices, and industrial control. It involves techniques such as Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), and Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) to predict and prevent failures that could lead to accidents, injuries, or financial losses. This methodology is essential for ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations, such as ISO 26262 for automotive or DO-178C for avionics.
Developers should learn and use Hazard Analysis when working on safety-critical systems where failures could have severe consequences, such as in autonomous vehicles, medical software, nuclear plants, or aerospace applications. It helps in designing robust systems by proactively identifying vulnerabilities, reducing the likelihood of catastrophic events, and meeting regulatory requirements. For example, in automotive software development, Hazard Analysis is mandated by standards like ISO 26262 to ensure functional safety throughout the product lifecycle.