What is a 'Critical Incident'?

A 'Critical Incident' is defined as one that necessitates immediate action to avert significant harm or disruption. This designation highlights the urgency and severity associated with such incidents. They often involve situations that could lead to severe consequences for people, property, or operations if not addressed without delay.

Recognizing an incident as critical establishes the importance of a prompt and effective response, ensuring that resources are mobilized rapidly to mitigate potential damage. The implications of a critical incident extend beyond just the immediate threat; they can also affect organizational reputation, safety, and continuity of operations. This concept is fundamental in incident management practices, where differentiating between various incident types helps prioritize response efforts efficiently.