Plan for Developing and Adopting Seismic Design Guidelines and Standards for Lifelines (FEMA 271)
This document outlines a plan for developing and adopting design and construction standards for lifelines. The plan 1) establishes performance criteria for the construction, maintenance, and operation of new and existing lifeline systems, equipment, and materials for selected levels of seismic risk; 2) provides a basis for technical specifications for use by buyers and sellers of lifeline products and services to reduce the vulnerability of lifeline systems to earthquakes; and 3) provides a reliable basis for regulations to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Five types of lifeline systems are presented: electric, gas and liquid fuel, telecommunications, transportation, and water systems.
