Reflections on New Zealand’s earthquake resistant design approach
Can it be improved?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5459/bnzsee.51.4.212-221Abstract
Perceived shortcomings in NZS 1170.5 [1] and some other Standards are highlighted and areas for improvement are suggested. A particular focus is placed on achieving the principal objective of achieving life safety at the limit state at which structural collapse is to be avoided. Topic areas commented on include:
- The objectives of earthquake resistant design, especially that of avoiding the collapse of structures
- The appropriateness of current classifications of buildings into importance levels
- The currency and adequacy of the design seismic hazard spectra requirements
- The justification for, and application of, a structural performance factor
- The force-based and displacement-based methods of analysis and design, and the effects of plastic hinging relieving member permanent load moments at plastic hinges adjacent to points of support
- Consideration of displacement effects, and effects on displacements, at the limit state at which collapse is to be avoided
- Achieving reparability
- Some shortcomings in the material Standards for both structural steel and reinforcing steel
- Consideration of site conditions, and in coastal locations the tsunami risk
- Comparability of New Zealand design requirements with other major design codes.
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