Seismic design is in increasing demand in both Australia and New Zealand. The 2011 Christchurch earthquake which killed 185 people and has now cost an estimated $40 billion rebuilding brought home the devastating reality the potential damage of an earthquake.
While specific design requirements for seismic events have long been stipulated in building codes, there has not always been sufficient awareness or understanding for measures to be adequately implemented.
Recent events and changes to design standards now requires that new construction projects need to be more comprehensive in terms of their safety and structural integrity to be suitably prepared for the rigours of geological movement and other environmental hazards.
It is crucial for Architects to be aware of the statutory requirements of incorporating effective seismic design into projects that require it, as well as knowing the options available to them.
Minimising impact
The event of an earthquake is unavoidable. The responsibility of the architect and engineer then is to minimise the potential damage if such event does occur. Advancements in research and technology in recent decades has seen the capacity of buildings to withstand movements increase.
One of the greatest advancements, and the primary concern when it comes to structural design for earthquakes, is the lateral force-resisting system of the building. In most cases, this involves roof and floor diaphragms for horizontal distribution, as well as shear walls and rigid frames for vertical bracing. Failure of these elements can result in major damage, including the possibility of total collapse.
While there are a number of factors which will impact on the structural integrity of a building after ground motion, correct planning of these elements will go a long way to ensuring the effects are minimised.
To find out more about the role of the architect and engineer in minimising the impact of earthquakes, and the technological advances that are changing the way we look at seismic design, click here to download this free white paper from Rondo ‘Seismic Shift: The Focus on Seismic Design in Commercial Building Projects’
