Nonstructural
The popular quote “Earthquakes don’t kill people, buildings do,” could be expanded out from buildings to the built environment. There are a wide range of construction methods that all react very differently to earthquakes.
In several recent earthquakes, repair costs from nonstructural damage exceeded costs due to structural damage. A safe structure can be left vacant due to severe damage to mechanical, electrical, plumping and architectural systems.
- Nonstructural Issues in Essential Facilities
- Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural Earthquake Damage (FEMA-74)
- Restrain Desktop Computers and Appliances
- Protect Business Records and Inventory
- Mount Framed Pictures and Mirrors Securely
- Install Latches on Drawers and Cabinet Doors
- Anchor Tall Bookcases and File Cabinets
- Anchor Large Equipment Properly
- Anchor Fuel Tanks
- Anchor and Brace Propane Tanks and Gas Cylinders
- Guidelines for Earthquake Bracing of Residential Water Heaters
- Guía de Seguridad contra Terremotos para Propietarios de Viviendas [Spanish]
- Is Your Home Protected from Earthquake Disasters?
- Guide and Checklist for Nonstructural Earthquake Hazards in California Schools
- Installing Seismic Restraints for Duct and Pipe (FEMA 414)
- Installing Seismic Restraints for Electrical Equipment (FEMA 413)
- Identification and Reduction of Nonstructural Hazards in Schools
- Seismic Considerations for Steel Storage Racks (FEMA 460)
- Earthquake Hazard Mitigation for Nonstructural Elements (FEMA 74-FM)