FAQ-–-Seismic-Restraint-of-Non-Structural-Building-Elements

Seismic restraint is crucial to prevent earthquakes from damaging non-structural building elements and posing risks to human safety. Recent seismic testing in New Zealand showed a 95% failure rate in non-structural elements, and up to 70% of a building’s value is represented by these components. The required level of seismic restraint is determined by several factors, including geographic location, subsoil type, and building type. The design of seismic restraint involves different specialists, including seismic design specialists, installers, and building consent authorities. Seismic restraint involves designing and installing bracing capable of withstanding the expected loads and deflections from the determined earthquake design level.