Do risks solely pertain to dangers of bodily harm?

The concept of risk encompasses a wide array of potential adverse outcomes, not solely limited to dangers of bodily harm. While bodily harm is indeed a significant concern, particularly in fields such as engineering and healthcare where safety is paramount, risks also extend to non-physical consequences. Economic loss, reputational damage, environmental impact, and legal liabilities represent crucial factors that can arise from project failures or ethical missteps.

In professional ethics, particularly within engineering and technological design, it is imperative to consider the broader implications of risks. For instance, a design flaw might not only endanger lives but could also lead to substantial financial liabilities for a company, loss of market trust, and long-term damage to a brand's reputation. Addressing all potential risks, including economic loss, is essential for responsible decision-making and aligns with the principles of ethical practice that guide professionals in making informed and holistic assessments. Therefore, the understanding of risk must be comprehensive, integrating both physical and non-physical elements to ensure thorough risk management.