Using holistic design to improve the seismic performance of non-structural elements and building resilience

Abstract

Non-structural elements typically contribute around 80% of the total cost of a building. Damage to these components as well as works to repair and replace earthquake damaged non-structural elements can mean buildings are unable to be used and occupied for significant periods of time following earthquakes. This occurred in many buildings following the Canterbury, Cook Strait and Kaikoura earthquakes where buildings only suffered minor structural damage but the impact on the non-structural elements and the ability to continue to use and occupy buildings was significantly affected. Improving the seismic performance of non-structural elements will minimise the need to close buildings for repair after smaller earthquakes which will lead to improved resilience of the organisations and entities that occupy the buildings. Reduced damage and need for repair and replacement of non-structural elements will reduce the amount of waste generated to restore buildings and consequently reduce the Whole-of-Life embodied carbon emissions from our buildings. This paper provides an overview of the key design, coordination, and installation issues that impact the seismic performance of non-structural elements and discusses how to incorporate holistic design to improve the overall seismic performance and resilience. The paper highlights the importance of structural response on the seismic performance of non-structural elements and discusses improvements to the design process, detailing, coordination and construction to improve the future seismic performance of buildings. The impacts of structural earthquake damage are discussed in the context of impact of the structural damage on the future performance of non-structural elements.