National Performance Criteria for Tornado Shelters
Introduction
Shelters constructed to these performance criteria are expected to withstand the effects of the high winds and debris generated by tornadoes so that all occupants of the shelter during a tornado will be protected without injury. These criteria are to be used by design professionals, shelter manufacturers, building officials, and emergency management officials to ensure that shelters constructed in accordance with these criteria provide a consistently high level of protection. The following describes the performance criteria.
Topics Covered- Resistance to Loads from Wind Pressure for Shelters
- Windborne Missile Impact Resistance on Shelter Walls and Ceiling
- Other Loads
- Shelter Access Doors and Door Frames
- Shelter Ventilation
- Emergency Lighting
- Shelter Sizing
- Shelter Accessibility
- Emergency Management Considerations for Shelters
- Additional Requirements for Below-Grade Shelters:
- Multihazard Mitigation Issues
- Construction Plans and Specifications
- Quality Control
- Obtaining Necessary Permits
You can download National Performance Criteria for Tornado Shelters from the FEMA Library, or order a copy from the FEMA Distribution Center. To order this or other publications please call 1-800-480-2520 or fax 1-240-599-0525 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. EST. You may also email your request to FEMA-Publications-Warehouse@dhs.gov. Please provide the title, item number, short number, and quantity of each publication, along with your name, address, zip code, and daytime telephone number.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 30-Mar-2011 13:38:57 EDT
- Home
- Contact Us
- Español
- Privacy Policy
- Important Notices
- Accessibility
- Download Plug-ins
- FOIA
- No FEAR Act Data
- USA.gov
- DHS
* The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government Web sites, companies or applications.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
500 C Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20472
(202) 646-2500
Text PREPARE to 43362 (4FEMA). Msg/data rates apply
(800) 621-FEMA / TTY (800) 462-7585
3 Step Guide for Assistance
Social Media