Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Existing RC Buildings - Comparative Study of Codal Provisions of Various Countries

Abstract

During the earthquakes in several counties including India, loss of human lives and damage to property has occurred in the past due to the collapse of existing buildings. Though, occurrence of an earthquake cannot be predicted and prevented, the loss of human life and damage to the property can be minimized by taking necessary steps on the existing buildings. Several countries have made codes of practices / guidelines for seismic vulnerability assessment of existing structures including RC buildings. This paper presents the results of the comparative study of provisions for seismic vulnerability assessment of existing RC buildings, specified in codes of practices / guidelines of various countries.