The Content Of The Article:

Seismic constructions are constructions designed to withstand significant seismic shocks. While private homes are not necessarily concerned, some homes in risk areas and some particular buildings must meet certain criteria to ensure the safety of residents and the population.

What is a seismic construction?

A seismic construction is, as its name suggests, a construction that is capable of withstand earthquakes previously defined and regulated for each seismic zone. The main objective of this type of construction is to not collapse on its occupants even if the building suffered irreparable damage and save the maximum of human lives. Earthquake-resistant constructions mainly concern risk areas but also buildings and special infrastructure such as dams, nuclear power plants and industries at risk. Indeed, it is important that they resist in case of strong earthquakes to protect the environment as well as the health and safety of the population.

The fundamental principles of a seismic construction

To be considered as seismic construction, the building must answer 5 fundamental factors:

  • The choice of the implantation site: It is recommended to proscribe all the land on the hills and at the top of the slope breaks. It is also important not to locate on the edge between rocky and soft soils.
  • Architectural design: the building must be intelligently designed and specially designed to withstand significant earthquakes. The architecture must promote appropriate behavior in case of earthquake.
  • Respect for seismic rulesThese rules set the required levels of protection by region but also by type of building. These rules also make it possible to fix the methods of calculation and dimensioning of the different parts of the structure of constructions.
  • The quality of work executionMaterials must be scrupulously chosen and buildings must also be protected from fire.
  • Building maintenanceIt is important to properly maintain buildings and check the condition of the structure regularly to ensure long-term effectiveness.

It is only by respecting these 5 principles that the building can be considered as seismic. Indeed, the non-respect of one of the 5 factors could cause a collapse of the building in the event of an earthquake.

Discover also other types of constructions:

  • The evolutionary houses
  • Bioclimatic houses
  • The Bépos houses


Video Instruction: How We Design Buildings To Survive Earthquakes