Building Science Resource Library
The Building Science Resource Library contains all of FEMA’s hazard-specific guidance that focuses on creating hazard-resistant communities.
You can search for a document by its title, or filter the collection to browse by:
- Topic: High winds, flood, earthquake, etc.
- Document Type: Brochure, report, fact sheet, infographic, etc.
- Audience: Building professionals & engineers, individuals & homeowners, teachers & kids, etc.
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This report presents a new analysis method to identify the increase in the seismic vulnerability of individual lifeline systems (communication systems, electric power systems, fuel pipelines, and transportation lifeline) due to their proximity to other lifelines in the Cajon Pass. The method calculates a parameter that can be used to adjust the damage state values for shaking as determined by the ATC 13 damage probability matrices. The primary objective of the study was to determine how the time to restore full service would be affected by the collocation of several types of lifelines in the same congested corridor. The new method is applied to the Cajon Pass lifelines. The design program, AutoCAD, is used to develop overlays of the lifeline routes with seismic and geologic information presented in the inventory report (FEMA 225).
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This report provides an inventory of the major lifeline systems in the Cajon Pass. The report describes the earthquake and geologic analysis tools available to identify and define the level of seismic risk to those lifelines. The vulnerabilities occurring from the siting of multiple lifeline systems in confined and at risk areas due to their interactions from natural and manmade disasters are evaluated. Potential mitigation techniques for communication lifelines, electrical power lifelines, fuel pipelines, and transportation lifelines are identified. Detailed maps indicate lifeline locations. The report also discusses seismic hazards and predictive models for evaluating the damage potentials associated with the various seismic hazards.
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This report summarizes a study of lifeline systems located along the Cajon Pass in southern California. The study included analyses of communication lifelines, electric power lifelines, fuel pipelines, and transportation lifelines. The report evaluates how collocation may influence each lifeline’s seismic vulnerability. A brief description of the screening tool developed during the study is provided.
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This report provides a national overview of lifeline seismic vulnerability and the impact of disruption. Both site specific lifelines and extended lifeline networks are examined. Included is a review of electric, water, transportation, and emergency service systems. The vulnerability estimates and impacts are presented in terms of estimated direct damage losses and indirect economic losses. The report also presents hazard mitigation measures and their expected benefits and recommendations for future work.
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This report summarizes a National Institute of Standards and Technology study that reviewed measures implemented by federal agencies to protect electric power transmission and telecommunication lifelines against seismic hazards. The report examines the seismic vulnerability of these lifelines and discusses current standards and design criteria. Seismic retrofitting techniques for components and systems are reviewed, including the benefits of retrofitting versus gradual replacement. A summary of federal practices in the design of new facilities and the retrofit of existing facilities is included.
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The purpose of this guidebook is to provide a practical, politically feasible guide for State and local officials involved in landslide hazard mitigation. The guidebook presents concepts and a framework for the preparation of State and local landslide hazard mitigation plans. It outlines a basic methodology, provides information on available resources, and offers suggestions on the formation of an interdisciplinary mitigation planning partnership and a permanent State natural hazards mitigation organization. Individual States and local jurisdictions can adapt the suggestions in this book to meet their own unique needs.
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These selected readings provide participants in the building process at the local, State, and regional levels with information on the most significant societal implications of adopting new or improved seismic regulations for new buildings. Included are papers on the estimated impact of the NEHRP Recommended Provisions on design and construction costs, seismic hazards in various areas of the U.S., seismic safety codes, current seismic hazard mitigation practices and programs, and recent seismic safety policy research. The book also contains an extensive bibliography, a list of information sources, and a glossary of terms.
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This report examines issues and problems associated with the availability and procurement of earthquake insurance from the point of view of consumers and providers. The report outlines the provisions of earthquake insurance policies currently available to homeowners, businesses, local governments, and special districts. It examines the extent to which earthquake insurance is purchased and why it may be unattractive to consumers. The federal role in providing or promoting earthquake insurance is reviewed. Policies are recommended for the Federal Government and others to develop a more adequate system of coverage.
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This storybook for children in grades 3-6 relates the adventures of the safety-conscious mayor of Shakeyville (Terry the Turtle) and a group of safety volunteers who meet with students at the local elementary school to teach them about earthquake safety. The students discover the importance of earthquake safety and preparedness. Included are suggestions for creating a disaster kit, illustrations of what to do if an earthquake happens (Drop, Cover, and Hold), and a list of resources.
A tsunami is one of nature’s most powerful and destructive forces. This fact sheet combines a brief overview of the risks posed by tsunamis with a capsulized explanation of the ways in which communities can address those risks by employing techniques credited under the Community Rating System.