1.

9 Seismic Risk Evaluation

Because of the difficulties involved in seismic hazard evaluation, earthquake design criteria in
different areas of the world vary, from well codified to inadequate or non-existent. Hence, depending
on the location and nature of the project concerned, seismic risk evaluation ranging from none
through arbitrary to thoroughgoing may be required (Dowrick, 2009).

Regional seismicity or risk maps recommended by seismic design codes usually do not attempt to
reflect geological conditions nor to take into account variations due to soil properties. It is necessary,
therefore, for critical construction in populated regions to make special geological-engineering
studies for each site, the detail, and level of concern which is used depending on the density of
occupancy as well as the proposed structural type. In inhabited areas, more casualties are likely to
result from a failed dam or a damaged nuclear reactor, for example, than from a

damaged oil pipeline (Bolt, 2008).

Bolt (2008) reported three factors which must be considered in assessment of seismic risk of a site
have been well-defined in recent times. Here a brief summary of these factors is listed. Please see
Modular 1 (https://tip.instructure.com/courses/25333/files/8971246/download?wrap=1)

(https://tip.instructure.com/courses/25333/files/8971246/download?download_frd=1) reference for the

summary of these factors:

1. Geological Input - Provision of a structural geologic map, Compilation of active faults in the region
and the type of displacement (e.g., left-lateral, strike-slip, etc.).
2. Seismological Input - Procedures for the estimation of ground shaking parameters for optimum
engineering design are still in the early stages and many are untested.
3. Soils Engineering Input - When there is geological indication of the presence of structurally poor
foundation material (such as in flood plains and filled tidelands), a field report on the surficial
strata underlying the site is advisable.