Call for earthquake resistant buildings

All buildings can support their own weight plus a little bit more. Even badly built buildings can resist some up-and-down movement caused by earthquakes. However, it is the side-to-side movement that causes buildings to collapse and this is the issue that needs to be addressed.

There are many different methods to use but the general rule is; the lighter the building, the less the loads are. Structures should be supported to resist sideways movement by using diagonal bracing or moment resisting framing. Larger buildings should be isolated from the floor using dampers or bearings, but this can be a difficult and expensive process. Larger structures in earthquake areas should not be built too high compared to their width.

Nothing is guaranteed when it comes to earthquake resistant buildings but there are certain methods which can give buildings the best chance of survival and in turn save many lives and livelihoods. Mr Reid said, “We are not ambulance chasers. Every time we see the results of earthquakes, with numerous people, mostly poor people, killed or bereaved, we cannot help but wish that buildings were better built. If we can help in any way we are always ready to do so. The information in the article shows builders, developers, government agencies and anyone else how to do it."

To view the full article please visit:
http://www.reidsteel.co.uk/information/earthquake_resistant_building.htm

Ends
Words 277

Notes for editors

Reid Steel design and make every form of structural steelwork from light architectural steel to the heaviest industrial plant including Industrial Buildings, Aircraft Hangars, Sports Stadia, Warehouses and Bridges. They also provide cladding, insulation, overhead cranes, gantries, roller shutter doors, electro- mechanical hangar doors, windows, ventilation and all the accessories needed for the complete structure. For more information please visit: http://www.reidsteel.co.uk

Ref: RS011205