| Abstract | Earthquakes occur frequently around the world, garnering a great deal of attention, especially when there is loss of life and significant property damage, as there often is. Fortunately for North Americans, wood construction of the platform-frame type commonly used in our houses performs well from a seismic point of view, with a remarkably low fatality level. This Update reviews why this performance is good and explains how to avoid such problems as a weak first storey, unstable foundation soils, and unrestrained furnishing, components and appliances, all of which can pose safety risks for occupants. Readers are advised of special preventive measures, useful documentation on upgrading of buildings, and new developments in standards and codes, which, taken together, give all the more assurance of safety. |
|---|
