Non-Technical Explanation of the 1994 NEHRP Recommended Provisions (FEMA 99)

This publication is an introduction to the 1994 edition of the NEHRP Recommended Provisions for Seismic Regulations for New Buildings. Although the NEHRP Provisions have been updated several times since 1994, most recently in 2003, the non-technical explanations provided in this publication remain useful for lay audiences. The publication explains the nature of ground motion generated by earthquakes, how ground motion affects buildings, the techniques used to design against earthquake forces, and how the Provisions translate this information into simple, uniform criteria and requirements for designers and builders. This document can be ordered from FEMA’s website.