Risk Management Series Series

Seismic risk management tools, including advanced 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 significant scientific and engineering advancements, enhancing our understanding of earthquake occurrence and severity, as well as improving 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 acknowledges the varying levels of technical knowledge and experience among seismic design professionals (architects and engineers) across the U.S., particularly in relation to seismic design in areas of differing seismicity. The intended audience includes design professionals who collaborate with building owners and managers on new projects.