Defining Seismic Safety Principles for Schools

In order to improve earthquake safety in schools, the fundamental concepts and principles that lead to building earthquake-resilient school must be identifi ed. The aim of this part of the experts’ meeting was not only to defi ne these concepts and principles, taking into account cost/benefi t and resource implications, but also to use them as a starting point from which to develop a programme for school seismic safety in countries. California’s 1933 Field Act illustrates how effective legislation can lead to developing and implementing a successful programme. The general principles that ensure the effective and prolonged enforcement of this legislation can be identifi ed, although the extent to ...