Primer for Design Professionals

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Seismic risk management tools, including advanced seismic engineering technology and data, are now available to evaluate, predict, and control financial and personal injury losses from future earthquakes. These tools have emerged from scientific and engineering advancements, such as improved understanding of earthquake shaking and innovative engineering techniques for designing resilient building systems. Consequently, design and construction professionals can now create buildings with more predictable seismic performance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has funded the development of this document to educate building owners and managers about effective and economical seismic risk management tools applicable during the building development phase—from site selection to design and construction—and throughout the operational phase. It also acknowledges the varying levels of technical knowledge among seismic design professionals (architects and engineers) across the United States, particularly in areas of differing seismicity. The document is aimed at design professionals who collaborate with building owners and managers on new projects, providing essential insights for enhancing seismic resilience.