NEHRP Clearinghouse
- Title
- Seismic Reliability Assessment of Critical Facilities: A Handboook, Supporting Documentation, and Model Code Provisions.
- File
- PB2000101701.pdf
- Author(s)
- Johnson, G. S.; Sheppard, R. E.; Quilici, M. D.; Eder, S. J.; Scawthorn, C. R.
- Source
- National Science Foundation, Arlington, VA., April 12, 1999, 396 p.
- Identifying Number(s)
- MCEER-99-0008
- Abstract
- This document summarizes a multi-year research project in the development of a detailed methodology to assess and improve the functional reliability of equipment systems in critical facilities following earthquakes. The overall program is intended to be used by engineers, building officials, owners, and other individuals interested in assessing and improving the capacity of a facility to provide critical services. Current building, design standards are primarily intended to preserve life safety through maintenance of the structural integrity of buildings and critical safety systems, such as fire protection. Some governing bodies recognize that critical facilities, such as hospitals, are required to not only survive an earthquake without structural failure but also to be operational during, and immediately following, a seismic event. An approach to improve the reliability of equipment systems that is flexible enough to be used in many types of facilities and does not require personnel with seismic expertise is the goal of this methodology.
- Keywords
- ; Checkout; Seismic design; Emergency preparedness; Safety engineering; Design standards; Earthquake engineering; Handbooks; Building codes