Catalog of FEMA 

Building Science Branch 

Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-787 / Fifth Edition / September 2016

Catalog of FEMA 

Building Science Branch 

Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-787 / Fifth Edition / September 2016 
These publications, courses, and workshops have been developed by the Building Science Branch 

of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) Federal Insurance and Mitigation 

Administration (FIMA).

Please visit http://www.fema.gov/resource-document-library to view or download publications.

ORDERING INFORMATION

To order publications from this catalog, please call 1-800-480-2520 or fax 240-699-0525 

(Monday − Friday 8:00 a.m. − 5:00 p.m., ET) or send an email to FEMA-PublicationsWarehouse@fema.dhs.gov. Please provide the title, item number, and quantity of each 

publication, along with your name, address, zip code, and daytime telephone number.
CONTENTS

About this Catalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

FEMA Building Science Branch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Earthquake Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Individuals & Homeowners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Protecting Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Emergency Preparedness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Teachers & Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Curricula & Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Emergency Preparedness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Private Sector & Small Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Community Planning & Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Building Professionals & Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Residential Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Existing Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

New Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Nonstructural Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Lifelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Performance-Based Seismic Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Special Construction Types – Steel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Special Construction Types – Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Special Construction Types – Tsunami-Resistant Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Special Construction Types – Blast Resistance Benefits of Seismic Design . . . . . . . 40

Flood Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Individuals & Homeowners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Protecting Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Private Sector & Small Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 

Community Planning & Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Design and Construction Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Damage Assessment Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Building Professionals & Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Building Code Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

NFIP Technical Bulletins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Existing Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

New Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Nonstructural Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Mitigation Assessment Team Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
High Wind Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Individuals & Homeowners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Protecting Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Safe Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Private Sector & Small Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Community Planning & Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Design and Construction Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Building Professionals & Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Existing Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Safe Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Mitigation Assessment Team Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Multi-Hazard Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Individuals & Homeowners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Protecting Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Emergency Preparedness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Private Sector & Small Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Community Planning & Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Design and Construction Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Building Professionals & Engineers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Risk Management Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Other Hazard Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Man-Made . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Wildfire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Training Courses and Workshops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Earthquakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Flood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

High Wind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Multi-Hazard............................................................ 105

Table 1. List of Publications in This Catalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
ABOUT THIS CATALOG

FEMA’s Building Science Branch has compiled this catalog of available FEMA publications, 

training courses, and workshops for natural hazards. The publication descriptions are first organized by primary hazard (earthquake, flood, high wind, multi-hazard, and other), and then 

by stakeholder groups: individuals and homeowners, teachers and kids, private sector and small 

business, community planning and policy, building professionals and engineers (contractors, 

builders, engineers, and architects), and Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) reports, which are 

applicable to all stakeholders. Listings are further arranged by subject areas and in order of publication date (the most recent first) in the text. These materials are also listed by FEMA publication number in Table 1 starting on page 107. Each listing includes a set of icons that indicates 

the applicable hazards and whether the resource is available online, on CD, and/or in print.

8 ONLINE > CD 1 PRINT

See the inside cover of this document for ordering information. 

The Catalog of FEMA Earthquake Resources, FEMA P-736B is also available and provides an overview of 

publications pertaining to earthquakes. It is available online at http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/15092.

1
FEMA BUILDING SCIENCE BRANCH

The FEMA Building Science Branch leads FEMA’s efforts to provide communities across the 

United States with technical guidance to reduce loss of life and property damage from earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural hazards. The Branch resides in the Risk 

Management Directorate of FEMA’s Federal Insurance Mitigation Administration (FIMA) and is 

staffed by highly skilled national experts on building codes, disaster-resistant construction techniques, and post-disaster rebuilding strategies. Building Science Branch activities include deploying MATs to conduct post-disaster engineering investigations for both man-made and natural 

hazard events. Building Science takes a lead role in developing publications, guidance materials, 

tools, technical bulletins, and recovery advisories that incorporate the most up-to-date building 

codes, seismic design standards, floodproofing requirements, and wind design requirements for 

new construction and the repair and retrofitting of existing buildings. In addition to providing 

technical support for the development and adoption of model building codes and standards, 

the Building Science Branch provides technical support for the the National Earthquake Hazards 

Reduction Program (NEHRP), the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for public and private sector stakeholders, and the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program (NWIRP), and 

pursues outreach strategies for communicating Building Science issues. 

Visit us at: https://www.fema.gov/building-science. 

For more information about FEMA Building Science publications, please contact the FEMA 

Building Science Helpline by email at FEMA-BuildingScienceHelp@fema.dhs.gov or by phone at 

(866) 927-2104 (toll free). 

To subscribe to FEMA Building Science e-mail updates, visit https://service.govdelivery.com/

accounts/USDHSFEMA/subscriber/new?topic_id=USDHSFEMA_193.

2 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

INDIVIDUALS & HOMEOWNERS

Protecting Property

FEMA B-526 – Earthquake Safety Checklist (December 2014)

8 1

This quick-reference guide helps individuals and families prepare for an earthquake and prevent earthquake-related damage to their homes. The easy-toread brochure features instructions on conducting earthquake drills and “hazard 

hunts.” Also included are a checklist of disaster supplies, tips on what to do 

during and after an earthquake, and additional resources. Available in English and 

Spanish in print and multiple languages online.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3234

FEMA V-528 – Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt Poster 

(September 2014) 

8 1

This poster provides visuals and descriptions so that homeowners can identify and fix at-risk areas of their homes to reduce future earthquake damage 

and disruption.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3261

3

FEMA E-74CD – Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural Earthquake 

Damage: A Practical Guide (Fourth Edition, December 2012)

8 >

This fourth edition of FEMA 74 has been redesigned for use online and expanded to include more examples that feature photos of actual damage and 

details illustrating correct mitigation measures. The online format makes it 

easy to browse and print out relevant details. The guide describes the sources of nonstructural earthquake damage and effective methods of reducing 

potential risks associated with such damage. It assists in identifying potential 

hazards and provides specific guidance on upgrades. The guide also contains a glossary, references, and an annotated bibliography for those who 

desire additional information. A nonstructural inventory form, a checklist of 

nonstructural earthquake hazards, and an explanation of nonstructural risk 

ratings are included as appendices. Target audiences for the guide include 

building owners, facility managers, maintenance personnel, homeowners, 
store or office managers, business proprietors, organizational department 

heads, and others concerned with building safety and the continuation 

of business. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21405

FEMA P-50 and FEMA P-50-1 – Simplified Seismic Assessment 

of Detached, Single-Family, Wood-Frame Dwellings and Seismic 

Retrofit Guidelines for Detached, Single- Family, Wood-Frame 

Dwellings (May-June 2012)

8 1

FEMA P-50 explains how to use the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form to 

calculate a Seismic Performance Grade for a detached, single-family, woodframe home. The grade is based on a Structural Score and Seismic Hazard 

Score, which are derived using location- specific data available through 

online websites. The companion publication FEMA P-50-1 describes lowcost seismic retrofitting techniques that can be used to address deficiencies 

identified on the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form, and shows how implementing those techniques could improve a home’s grade. These publications 

provide a tool that communities or others can use to encourage the seismic 

retrofitting of residential structures to reduce future earthquake losses.

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50.pdf

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50-1.pdf

4 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-711CD – Earthquake Publications for Individuals and 

Homeowners (June 2008) 

>

This compilation contains all of the publications listed in this section (Individuals and Home owners) of the catalog. Two additional publications are also 

included: “Drop, Cover, and Hold Poster” (FEMA V-529); and “The Adventures 

of Terry the Turtle and Gracie the Wonder Dog, Grades 3–6” (FEMA 531).

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15194.

FEMA 232 and P-232CD – Homebuilders’ Guide to Earthquake 

Resistant Design and Construction (June 2006) 

8 > 1

This illustrated guide presents seismic design and construction guidance for 

one- and two- family light frame residential structures that can be utilized by 

homebuilders, knowledgeable homeowners, and other non-engineers, and 

provides information supplemental to the 2003 edition of the “International 

Residential Code.” The guide presents background information on the principles of seismic resistance and how earthquake forces impact conventional 

residential construction and more detailed information on architectural 

considerations (site selection, foundations and foundation details, floors, shear 
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

5

walls, and roofs). Also included are discussions of masonry and stone elements, 

examples of typical floor plans for earthquake- resistant one- and two-story 

homes, excerpts of seismic requirements from building codes, and checklists 

for homebuilders. The guide also presents a series of “above-code recommendations” that provide low-cost measures to increase the performance of the 

building and help keep it functional after an earthquake. The CD–ROM, FEMA 

P-232CD, contains both English- and Spanish-language versions of the FEMA 

232 publication, as well as related training materials.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/6015

Emergency Preparedness

FEMA B-526 – Earthquake Safety Checklist (December 2014) 

8 1

This quick-reference guide helps individuals and families prepare for an 

earthquake and prevent earthquake-related damage to their homes. The easyto-read brochure features instructions on conducting earthquake drills and 

“hazard hunts.” Also included are a checklist of disaster supplies, tips on 

what to do during and after an earthquake, and additional resources. Available in English and Spanish in print and multiple languages online.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3234
6 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

TEACHERS & KIDS

Curricula & Activities

FEMA P-710CD – Earthquake Publications for Teachers and Kids

(June 2008)

8 >

This compilation contains all of the publications listed in this section (Teachers and Kids) of the catalog. Two additional publications are also included: 

Earthquake Safety Checklist (FEMA B-526), and Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt Poster

(FEMA 528).

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/16661

FEMA 527 – Earthquake Safety Activities for Children and 

Teachers (August 2005) 

8 1

This publication provides elementary-school teachers with ready-to-use, 

hands-on activities that explain what happens during an earthquake, how 

to prepare for earthquake shaking, and how to stay safe during and after an 

earthquake. Included are a variety of handouts for students, including maps, 

songs, “hazard hunt” worksheets, and earthquake safe ty checklists.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1508-20490-6311/

fema-527.pdf

FEMA 531 – The Adventures of Terry the Turtle and Gracie the 

Wonder Dog, Grades 3–6 (August 2005) 

8 1

This storybook for children in grades 3-6 relates the adventures of the safety-conscious mayor of Shakeyville (Terry the Turtle) and a team of safety volunteers who meet with students at the local elementary school to teach them 

about earthquake safety. The students discover the importance of earthquake 

safety and preparedness. Included are suggestions for creating a disaster kit, 

illustrations of what to do if an earthquake happens (Drop, Cover, and Hold), 

and a list of resources.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3279
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

7

FEMA 159 and FEMA 159CD– Tremor Troop: Earthquakes—

A Teacher’s Package for K–6 (July 2002)

8 > 1

This teacher’s package for grades K-6 provides ready-to-use, hands-on 

activities for students and teachers on the science of earthquakes and earthquake safety. This edition contains assessments throughout the units, matrices linking activities to the National Science Education Standards, and a new 

glossary. Four of the five units are divided into levels by grades: Level 1, for 

grades K-2; Level 2, for grades 3-4; and Level 3, for grades 5-6. The lessons 

introduce how earthquakes are defined, why and where earthquakes occur, 

the physical results of earthquakes, and how earthquakes are measured. The 

final unit addresses earthquake safety and survival and includes activities for 

students in all grades K-6. At the end of each unit, ready- to-reproduce masters are provided for classroom use.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2915

FEMA 253 – Seismic Sleuths: A Teacher’s Package for Grades 

7–12 (October 1995) 

8 > 1

This package provides middle-school and high-school teachers with information about the causes and effects of earthquakes. Activity sheets for students and background materials for teachers are provided in each of the volume’s six units. The units assess students’ knowledge of earthquakes; provide 

information on preparedness and emergency management; discuss the causes 

of earthquakes and their effects; present information on seismic waves and 

the development of seismology and instruments used to measure an earthquake’s magnitude; explain the effects of earthquakes on buildings and earthquake-resistant design techniques; and discuss earthquake preparedness and 

the reactions of different populations to historical earthquakes. The last unit 

provides a variety of summary and assessment activities and a list of additional resources. The CD-ROM, FEMA 253CD, Second Edition, 2005, contains 

curriculum supplements that provide middle-school and high-school teachers with background materials and activity sheets for students.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15229
8 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Emergency Preparedness

FEMA 529 – Drop, Cover, and Hold Poster (September 2014) 

8 1

This poster is intended for classroom use. It depicts a teacher and students 

in a classroom responding appropriately to the first sign of an earthquake 

(Drop, Cover, and Hold). Available in English and Spanish in print, and multiple languages online.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3266

FEMA 527 – Earthquake Safety Activities for Children and 

Teachers (August 2005)

8 1

This publication provides elementary-school teachers with ready-to-use, 

hands-on activities that explain what happens during an earthquake, how 

to prepare for earthquake shaking, and how to stay safe during and after an 

earthquake. Included are a variety of handouts for students, including maps, 

songs, “hazard hunt” worksheets, and earthquake safe ty checklists.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3256
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

9

PRIVATE SECTOR & SMALL BUSINESS

FEMA P-909CD – Home and Business Earthquake Safety 

and Mitigation (June 2014) 

8 >

This new training program on structural and nonstructural earthquake 

mitigation has three components: a Train-the-Trainer course, a Home and Business 

Earthquake Safety and Mitigation course, and a Hands-On Interactive Mitigation Demonstration. The goal of the training is to create a cadre of trainers with the ability 

to provide basic knowledge on earthquakes and the simple steps that should 

be taken for earthquake mitigation in homes and businesses. On successful 

completion of the Train-the-Trainer course offered through the FEMA National Earthquake Technical Assistance Program (NETAP), students will be 

certified to train others. The P-909CD consists of PowerPoint slides, hands-on 

demonstration instructions, supply lists, scripts, a quiz and answers, certificates, and posters. Audiences include government at all levels, emergency 

managers, first responders, businesses, volunteer community groups, and all 

others interested in leading an earthquake safety presentation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/97275

FEMA E-74CD – Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural Earthquake 

Damage: A Practical Guide (Fourth Edition, December 2012)

8 >

This fourth edition of FEMA 74 has been redesigned for use online and expanded to include more examples that feature photos of actual damage and 

details illustrating correct mitigation measures. The online format makes it 

easy to browse and print out relevant details. The guide describes the sources of nonstructural earthquake damage and effective methods of reducing 

potential risks associated with such damage. It assists in identifying potential 

hazards and provides specific guidance on upgrades. The guide also contains 

a glossary, references, and an annotated bibliography for those who desire 

additional information. A nonstructural inventory form, a checklist of nonstructural earthquake hazards, and an explanation of nonstructural risk ratings are included as appendices. Target audiences for the guide include building owners, facility managers, maintenance personnel, homeowners, store or 

office managers, business proprietors, organizational department heads, and 

others concerned with building safety and the continuation of business. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21405
10 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-811 DVD – Earthquake Publications for Businesses 

(QuakeSmart Toolkit) (September 2011)

8 >

Developed by FEMA for NEHRP, QuakeSmart is an initiative to help businesses in seismically at-risk communities start and maintain earthquake mitigation efforts. The QuakeSmart Toolkit provides actionable and scalable basic 

guidance and tools to the private sector about the importance of earthquake 

mitigation and the simple things that businesses can do to reduce the potential for earthquake damages, injuries, and financial losses. The toolkit walks 

you through a three-step process: 1) identify your risk, 2) make a plan, and 

3) take action. This information was specifically developed to encourage 

businesses to incorporate earthquake mitigation into their decision making 

and planning processes to enhance their all-hazards resilience.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/23902
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

11

COMMUNITY PLANNING & POLICY

FEMA P-50 and FEMA P-50-1 – Simplified Seismic Assessment 

of Detached, Single-Family, Wood-Frame Dwellings and 

Seismic Retrofit Guidelines for Detached, Single- Family, 

Wood-Frame Dwellings (May-June 2012)

8 1

FEMA P-50 explains how to use the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form to 

calculate a Seismic Performance Grade for a detached, single-family, woodframe home. The grade is based on a Structural Score and Seismic Hazard 

Score, which are derived using location- specific data available through online 

websites. The companion publication FEMA P-50-1 describes low-cost seismic retrofitting techniques that can be used to address deficiencies identified 

on the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form, and shows how implementing 

those techniques could improve a home’s grade. These publications provide 

a tool that communities or other entities can use to encourage the seismic 

retrofitting of residential structures to reduce future earthquake losses.

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50.pdf

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50-1.pdf

FEMA P-749 – Earthquake-Resistant Design Concepts: An 

Introduction to the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions

(December 2010) 

8 1

This document provides a readily understandable explanation of the intent 

and requirements of seismic design in general and the NEHRP Recommended 

Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures (FEMA P-750) in particular. 

FEMA P-750 and the building codes and standards based on its recommendations are technical documents intended primarily for use by design and 

construction professionals. However, understanding the basis for the seismic 

regulations contained in the Nation’s building codes and standards is important to many people outside this technical community. This publication is 

designed for elected officials, members of the insurance and financial communities, business owners, and other interested individuals.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21866
12 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-646A – Vertical Evacuation from Tsunamis: A Guide 

for Community Officials (June 2010) 

8 1

This document provides guidance for local officials on how to implement the 

design guidelines detailed in Guidelines for Design of Structures for Vertical Evacuation 

from Tsunamis (FEMA P-646). It examines how communities can plan, fund, 

construct, operate, and maintain vertical evacuation refuges.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/17050

FEMA P-774 and P-774CD – Unreinforced Masonry Buildings 

and Earthquakes: Developing Successful Risk Reduction 

Programs (October 2009) 

8 > 1

This publication provides guidance on reducing the risks from URM buildings in seismically active areas. URM buildings are typically the most vulnerable to earthquake damage and the type of construction that is most 

commonly singled out for voluntary and mandatory seismic risk reduction 

programs. The document includes illustrations and photographs of URM 

buildings and describes their seismic vulnerabilities. It discusses policy and 

regulatory issues that often must be considered, such as retrofit costs, the 

economic viability of older buildings, numbers of occupants and types of 

use, and historic or architectural values. Rather than prescribing a rigid 

sequence of steps for URM risk reduction, FEMA P-774 documents a wide 

variety of successful approaches that have been developed across the U .S.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/18030

FEMA P-712CD – Earthquake Publications for Community 

Planners and Public Policy Makers (June 2008) 

8 >

This compilation contains most of the publications that provide information and 

guidance for local planners, policy makers, and advocates interested in assessing 

and responding to seismic hazards and the risks they pose for their communities. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15201

FEMA 366 – HAZUS® MH Estimated Annualized Earthquake 

Losses for the United States (April 2008)

8

Recent earthquakes around the world show a pattern of steadily increasing damages and losses that is due primarily to two factors: (1) significant 

growth in earthquake-prone urban areas, and (2) vulnerability of the older 

building stock, including some buildings constructed within the past 20 

years. This publication highlights the impacts of both high risk and high 
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

13

exposure on losses caused by earthquakes. It is based on loss estimates generated by Hazus–MH, an electronic loss estimation tool that provides a method 

for quantifying future earthquake losses. FEMA’s objective in producing this 

report was to assess levels of seismic risk in the United States using Hazus–

MH and nationwide data. The analysis computes two interrelated metrics to 

characterize earthquake risk: Annualized Earthquake Loss and the Annualized 

Earthquake Loss Ratio.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13293

FEMA 474 – Promoting Seismic Safety: Guidance for 

Advocates (September 2005) 

8 1

This booklet offers advice to assist seismic safety advocates in presenting 

risk-reduction information and ideas. The full version of Promoting Seismic Safety: 

Guidance for Advocates is a 200-plus page report that consists of two parts. Part 

One is the guidance provided in this booklet. Part Two is a set of background 

papers developed by the authors as part of the project. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3229

FEMA 275 – Planning for Seismic Rehabilitation: Societal 

Issues (March 1998) 

8

This publication provides users with an understanding of the social and 

public policy issues that may accompany seismic rehabilitation, such as 

demographic, social, and economic impacts; historic property restrictions; 

resident dislocations; and business interruptions. The publication presents a 

four-step decision process to assist local officials, private owners, and design 

professionals in determining the need for rehabilitation. It includes an “escalation lad der” to assist in understanding the degree of conflict that might be 

generated and the implica tions of choosing particular strategies.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1928

FEMA 313 – Promoting the Adoption and Enforcement of 

Seismic Building Codes: A Guidebook for State Earthquake 

and Mitigation Managers (January 1998) 

8

This guidebook provides background information and educational materials 

to help state officials promote the adoption, administration, and enforcement of state and local model building codes that contain the latest seismic 

provisions. The guidebook describes the purpose, function, and effectiveness 

of building codes in general and seismic codes in particular and presents a 

step-by-step process for adopting and administering state or local codes. The 

appendices include the history and principles of seismic design; a state-by-
14 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

state listing of state codes and code influences; seismic design practices in the 

United States; examples of state and local building codes and state legislation; 

the services of model code organizations in the United States; and resources, 

recommended readings, and educational materials.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/564

FEMA 83 – Seismic Considerations for Communities at Risk

(September 1995) 

8 1

This publication provides individuals and community decision-makers with 

information they can use to assess seismic risk, make informed decisions 

about seismic safety in their communities, and determine what can be done 

to mitigate risk. The publication includes information on the scope of earthquake risk in the United States, the effects of earthquakes on buildings, how 

design can reduce earthquake effects, and the importance of seismic codes 

and the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures 

(FEMA P-750). Also included are factors to consider when deciding whether 

and how to take action to reduce earthquake risk and suggestions for stimulating community action.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2523

FEMA 266 – Creating a Seismic Safety Advisory Board: A 

Guide to Earthquake Risk Management (August 1995) 

8

This guide assists states, state coalitions, and local governments in creating, developing, and nurturing seismic safety advisory boards. It provides 

information on board operations, including staffing and funding a board, 

and guidelines for strategic planning and developing a mod el seismic risk 

management program to measure progress. The appendices include model executive orders, enabling legislation, staff duty descriptions, workshop 

designs, and workshop rosters; examples of an interstate compact, articles of 

incorporation, and corporate by-laws; a list of existing seismic safety advisory boards; and a lexicon of terms.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3032

FEMA 198 – Financial Incentives for Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Hazardous Buildings—An Agenda for Action. Volume 1: Findings, 

Conclusions, and Recommendations (September 1990) 

1

The Financial Incentives series publications (Volumes 1-3, FEMA 198, FEMA 

199, and FEMA 216) identify and describe the existing and potential regulatory and financial mechanisms and incentives for lessening the risks posed 

by existing buildings in an earthquake. Volume 1 includes a discussion of the 

methodology used in this series, background information on financial 
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

15

incentives, and findings, conclusions, and recommendations for decision 

makers at the local, state, and national levels.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3870

FEMA 199 – Financial Incentives for Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Hazardous Buildings—An Agenda for Action. Volume 2: State and 

Local Case Studies and Recommendations (September 1990) 

1

The Financial Incentives series publications identify and describe the regulatory and financial mechanisms and incentives for lessening the risks posed 

by existing buildings. Volume 2 includes detailed descriptions of the 20 case 

studies that were examined as part of the project.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3820

FEMA 182 – Landslide Loss Reduction: A Guide for State and 

Local Government Planning (August 1989) 

8

This guide provides information for state and local officials involved in landslide mitigation. It describes the benefits of landslide mitigation; the causes and 

types of landslides; hazard identification, assessment, and mapping; the transfer 

and use of information; loss-reduction techniques; plan preparation and review; and approaches to overcoming problems. Illustrations provide additional 

information on the causes of and damage resulting from landslides.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/437
16 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

BUILDING PROFESSIONALS & ENGINEERS

Residential Buildings

FEMA P-50 and FEMA P-50-1 – Simplified Seismic Assessment 

of Detached, Single-Family, Wood-Frame Dwellings and Seismic 

Retrofit Guidelines for Detached, Single- Family, Wood-Frame 

Dwellings (May-June 2012) 

8 1

FEMA P-50 explains how to use the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form to 

calculate a Seismic Performance Grade for a detached, single-family, woodframe home. The grade is based on a Structural Score and Seismic Hazard 

Score, which are derived using location- specific data available through 

online websites. The companion publication FEMA P-50-1 describes lowcost seismic retrofitting techniques that can be used to address deficiencies 

identified on the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form, and shows how implementing those techniques could improve a home’s grade. These publications provide a tool that communities or other entities can use to encourage 

the seismic retrofitting of residential structures to reduce future earthquake 

losses. The California Earthquake Authority funded the development of the 

damage range descriptions used for each Seismic Performance Grade.

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50.pdf

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50-1.pdf

FEMA P-593CD – Seismic Rehabilitation Training for Oneand Two-Family Dwellings: Program and Slide Presentations

(January 2010) 

8 >

This product contains PowerPoint slide presentations, an instructional 

guide, and speaker’s notes for training contractors, code officials, and other 

parties interested in the seismic retrofitting of existing light-frame dwellings. It has been used by the International Code Council (ICC) as the basis 

for a series of webinars.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21023

FEMA 232 and P-232CD – Homebuilders’ Guide to Earthquake 

Resistant Design and Construction (June 2006) 

8 > 1

This illustrated guide presents seismic design and construction guidance for 

one- and two- family light frame residential structures that can be utilized 

by homebuilders, knowledgeable homeowners, and other non-engineers, 

and provides information supplemental to the 2003 edition of the “International Residential Code.” The guide presents background information on the 
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

17

principles of seismic resistance and how earthquake forces impact conventional residential construction and more detailed information on architectural considerations (site selection, foundations and foundation details, floors,

shear walls, and roofs). Also included are discussions of masonry and stone 

elements, examples of typical floor plans for earthquake- resistant one- and 

two-story homes, excerpts of seismic requirements from building codes, and 

checklists for homebuilders. The guide also presents a series of “above-code 

recommendations” that provide low-cost measures that would increase the 

performance of the building and help keep it functional after an earthquake. 

FEMA P-232CD, contains both English and Spanish versions of the FEMA 232 

publication, as well as related training materials.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/6015

Existing Construction

FEMA P-1026 – Seismic Design of Rigid Wall-Flexible Diaphragm 

Buildings: An Alternate Design Procedure (March 2015)

Warehouse or retail store buildings in the U.S. are commonly built as 

single-story “big-boxes.” These buildings typically have stiff walls constructed of reinforced concrete or masonry, or braced frames of structural steel, 

and relatively flexible roofs of metal deck or wood structural panels. This 

type of structure is often referred to as Rigid-Wall and Flexible-Diaphragm 

(RWFD) buildings. The seismic response of these buildings is dominated by 

deflection of the diaphragm rather than the vertical seismic resisting system, 

as assumed by building code procedures. This publication presents an alternate design procedure to consider this characteristic response and improve 

seismic performance related to large diaphragm deflections. The procedure 

has yet to be vetted by a standards body for future adoption into building 

codes and standards. The principles and technical approach may be appropriate and useful in voluntary seismic strengthening projects.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/105764

FEMA P-1024 – Performance Assessment of Buildings and 

Nonstructural Components in the 2014 South Napa Earthquake

(February 2015) 

Data from a USGS strong-motion recording instrument located in downtown 

Napa was used to investigate every building within a 1,000 foot radius using 

the Applied Technology Council (ATC)-38 methodology to compare their 

performance to the known ground motion and document mitigation performance. This data was used to evaluate the performance of nonstructural 

components, responsible for the vast majority of the damage and injuries as 

well as help validate the new FEMA P-58 Seismic Performance Assessment of Buildings

and FEMA P-154 Rapid Visual Screening methodologies. The project also focused 

on the performance of seismic retrofitting of URM buildings, which was 

required under State law. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/103966
18 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-154 and P-154CD – Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings 

for Potential Seismic Hazards: A Hand book 

(Third Edition, January 2015) 

8 > 1

The FEMA P-154 Handbook describes how to identify the structural type 

and key weakness characteristics, how to complete the screening forms, and 

how to manage a successful RVS program. The new third edition of FEMA 

P-154 includes extensive updates, including improvements in the methodology, the screening forms, and the underlying scoring; the addition of a 

more detailed professional screening option (level 2 screening); new quick 

reference guides with extensive figures illustrating important building characteristics; an electronic scoring option; and guidance on how to administer 

an effective screening program. The FEMA P-154 CD contains PowerPoint 

slides with instructor notes; the RVS Student Manual (FEMA 154SM); data 

collection forms; and PDF- and text-file versions of FEMA P-154 (both FEMA 

P-154 and FEMA P-155 include the FEMA P-154 CD). 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15212

FEMA P-155 – Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential 

Seismic Hazards: Supporting Documentation

(Third Edition, January 2015)

8 1

The third edition companion to FEMA P-154 describes the technical background and process used to update the Handbook and the revisions considered and conclusions reached. Extensive detail is also provided in FEMA 

P-155 on the third edition scoring and associated risk.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15212

FEMA P-154 ROVER CD, Version 2 – Rapid Observation of 

Vulnerability and Estimation of Risk (September 2014) 

>

Rapid Observation of Vulnerability and Estimation of Risk (ROVER) is a mobile software for pre- and post-earthquake building safety screening. ROVER’s 

pre-earthquake module is used by field inspectors to quickly compile an 

electronic inventory of buildings, record seismic features of a building, and 

generate an automatic estimate of the need for detailed seismic evaluation. 

ROVER’s post-earthquake module is used to quickly perform and manage the 

red, yellow, and green safety tagging almost universally applied to buildings 

after earthquakes. The ROVER Version 2 software works on any device with a 

web browser and data connection and has a screen layout that automatically 

adapts to a smartphone, tablet, or PC. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/23463
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

19

FEMA P-50 and FEMA P-50-1 – Simplified Seismic Assessment 

of Detached, Single-Family, Wood-Frame Dwellings and Seismic 

Retrofit Guidelines for Detached, Single- Family, Wood-Frame 

Dwellings (May-June 2012) 

8 1

FEMA P-50 explains how to use the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form to 

calculate a Seismic Performance Grade for a detached, single-family, woodframe home. The grade is based on a Structural Score and Seismic Hazard 

Score, which are derived using location- specific data available through 

online websites. The companion publication FEMA P-50-1 describes lowcost seismic retrofitting techniques that can be used to address deficiencies 

identified on the Simplified Seismic Assessment Form, and shows how implementing those techniques could improve a home’s grade. These publications 

provide a tool that can be used to encourage seismic retrofitting of residential structures to reduce future earthquake losses.

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50.pdf

https://www.atcouncil.org/images/files/FEMA_P-50-1.pdf

FEMA P-807 – Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Multi-Unit 

Wood-Frame Buildings With Weak First Stories (May 2012)

8 1

Multi-unit, wood-frame buildings with weak first stories represent a significant risk in highly seismic regions of the United States because of their high 

potential for collapse. This collapse potential is due primarily to soft or weak 

first-story walls, which have often been weakened by large numbers of openings, such as for garages or storefront windows. This publication provides 

guidelines for the seismic retrofitting of weak-story, wood-frame buildings 

in seismically active regions, with a focus on multi-family, multi-story buildings with weak first stories, such as those damaged in the 1989 Loma Prieta 

earthquake, and on apartment buildings with tuck-under parking, such as 

those damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake. These are the first guidelines to focus solely on weak first stories and on incorporating just enough 

added strength to protect the first floor from collapse but not enough to 

drive earthquake forces into upper stories, placing them at risk of collapse. 

They are also the first guidelines to take into account the strength provided 

by existing nonstructural walls, which makes retrofitting more affordable. 

The print version of FEMA P-807 includes a CD containing a related spreadsheet tool.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/32681
20 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-767CD – Earthquake Mitigation for Hospitals (May 2010) 

8 >

This PowerPoint presentation is based on FEMA 396, Incremental Seismic 

Rehabilitation of Hospital Buildings: Providing Protection to People and 

Buildings. Recognizing that seismic mitigation can be expensive and disruptive, the purpose of this workshop is to introduce users to an innovative 

approach to seismic mitigation called “incremental seismic rehabilitation.” 

The approach essentially identifies systematic opportunities to conduct 

mitigation activities. Students are introduced to earthquake hazards in health 

care settings and learn about methods that can be used to analyze and reduce 

risks of damage in hospitals and other medical buildings. By implementing 

sound, cost-effective mitigation measures, health care facilities can reduce or 

eliminate seismic risks and ensure that, in the event of an earthquake, they 

can remain in operation to serve their communities.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/22391

FEMA P-593CD – Seismic Rehabilitation Training for One- and 

Two-Family Dwellings: Program and Slide Presentations

(January 2010)

8 >

This product contains PowerPoint slide presentations, an instructional guide, 

and speaker’s notes for training contractors, code officials, and other parties 

interested in the seismic retrofitting of existing light frame dwellings. It has 

been used by the International Code Council as the basis for a series of webinars that have been presented to its membership.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21023

FEMA P-774 and P-774CD – Unreinforced Masonry Buildings and 

Earthquakes: Developing Successful Risk Reduction Programs

(October 2009)

8 > 1

This publication provides guidance on reducing the risks from URM buildings 

in seismically active areas. URM buildings are typically the most vulnerable 

to earthquake damage and the type of construction that is most commonly 

singled out for voluntary and mandatory seismic risk reduction programs. 

The document includes illustrations and photographs of URM buildings and 

describes their seismic vulnerabilities. It discusses policy and regulatory issues 

that often must be considered, such as retrofit costs, the economic viability of 

older buildings, numbers of occupants and types of use, and historic or architectural values. Rather than prescribing a rigid sequence of steps for URM risk 

reduction, FEMA P- 774 documents a wide variety of successful approaches 

that have been developed across the U.S.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/18030
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

21

FEMA 547 and 547CD – Techniques for the Seismic Rehabilitation 

of Existing Buildings (2006 Edition, February 2007)

8 > 1

This publication documents common seismic rehabilitation or retrofitting 

techniques used for buildings represented in the set of standard building 

types presented in FEMA seismic publications. It includes a wide variety of 

techniques that have been developed and used for repair and retrofitting of 

earthquake-damaged and seismically deficient buildings.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/8564

FEMA 395–400 and P-420 – Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation 

Publications

8 1

These publications present an innovative approach that involves implementing a series of discrete rehabilitation, or retrofitting, actions in phases over 

a period of several years. Incremental seismic rehabilitation is an effective, 

affordable, and non-disruptive mitigation strategy, and can be integrated 

into ongoing facility maintenance and capital-improvement operations to 

minimize costs and disruption. The publications address different occupancies, including schools, hospitals, apartment buildings, office buildings, 

and hotels, and target building owners, facility managers, financial and risk 

managers, and others who have a role in building safety and loss reduction. 

A companion manual targeted to engineers and design professionals (FEMA 

P-420) is also available.

• FEMA 395 – Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of School 

Buildings (K–12) (June 2003)

This manual provides school administrators and board members 

with the information they need to assess the seismic vulnerability of 

existing school buildings and to implement a program of incremental 

seismic rehabilitation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/5154

• FEMA 396 – Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Hospital Buildings (December 2003)

This manual provides health care administrators and board members 

with the information they need to assess the seismic vulnerability of 

hospitals and other existing health care facilities, and to implement a 

program of incremental seismic rehabilitation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/5167
22 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

• FEMA 397 – Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of Office 

Buildings (December 2003)

Office buildings may be owned by partnerships, individuals, pension 

funds, real estate investment trusts, and other entities. This manual 

provides the information that these owners need to assess the seismic vulnerability of their buildings and to implement a pro- gram of 

incremental seismic rehabilitation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/5182

• FEMA 398 – Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Multifamily Apartment Buildings (February 2004)

This manual is designed for partnerships, individuals, pension funds, 

real estate investment trusts, and other entities who own Class A, B, or 

C multifamily buildings. It provides the information that these owners need to assess the seismic vulnerability of their buildings and to 

implement a program of incremental seismic rehabilitation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/5199

• FEMA 399 – Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of Retail 

Buildings (July 2004)

This manual is targeted to partnerships, individuals, pension funds, 

real estate investment trusts, and other entities who own Class A, B, or 

C retail buildings. It provides the information that these owners need 

to assess the seismic vulnerability of their buildings and to implement a program of incremental seismic rehabilitation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/5216

• FEMA 400 – Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of Hotel/

Motel Buildings (April 2005)

This manual provides the owners of hotels and motels with the information they need to assess the seismic vulnerability of their buildings 

and to implement a program of incremental seismic rehabilitation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/826

• FEMA P-420 – Engineering Guideline for Incremental 

Seismic Rehabilitation (May 2009)

This publication provides guidance for engineers and architects on 

implementing programs of incremental seismic rehabilitation for 

building owners. It reviews all FEMA publications that contain information on seismic evaluation and rehabilitation of existing buildings, 

and provides guidance on how to apply that information to incremental seismic rehabilitation programs.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/16947
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

23

FEMA 356 – Prestandard and Commentary for the Seismic 

Rehabilitation of Buildings (November 2000)

8 > 1

This prestandard serves as a nationally applicable tool for design professionals, code officials, and building owners undertaking the seismic rehabilitation, or retrofitting, of existing buildings. Chapters address requirements; 

analytical procedures; foundations and geologic site hazards; steel; concrete; 

masonry; wood and light-metal framing; seismic isolation and energy dissipation; simplified rehabilitation; architectural, mechanical, and electrical 

components; and use of the prestandard for risk mitigation programs. This 

prestandard has been superseded by the American Society of Civil Engineers 

(ASCE) 41 standard, “Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings,” but is being 

maintained by FEMA as a reference document.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/757

FEMA 157 – Typical Costs for Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing 

Buildings. Volume 2: Sup porting Documentation (Second 

Edition, September 1995)

8 1

This companion volume to FEMA 156 provides an in-depth discussion of 

the approaches and methodology that were used in developing the second 

edition of FEMA 156.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2910

FEMA 156 – Typical Costs for Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing 

Buildings. Volume 1: Summary

(Second Edition, December 1994)

8 1

This publication provides a methodology to estimate the costs of seismic rehabilitation projects at various locations in the United States. This edition is based 

on a sample of almost 2,100 projects, with data collected using a standard 

protocol, strict quality control verification, and a reliability rating. A sophisticated statistical methodology applied to this database yields cost estimates of 

increasing quality and reliability as more and more detailed information on the 

building inventory is used in the estimation process. Guidance is also provided 

to calculate the range of uncertainty associated with this process.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2905
24 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 255 – Seismic Rehabilitation of Federal Buildings: 

A Benefit/Cost Model. Volume 1: A User’s Manual

(September 1994)

8

This user’s manual and accompanying software present a second-generation 

benefit-cost model for the seismic rehabilitation of Federal and other government buildings. The benefit- cost methodology provides facility managers, 

design professionals, and other decision-makers with estimates of the benefits (avoided damages, losses, and casualties) of seismic rehabilitation and 

the costs of implementing rehabilitation. The methodology also generates 

detailed scenario estimates of damages, losses, and casualties. A tutorial and 

benefit-cost analyses of eight Federal buildings are included. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1887

FEMA 256 – Seismic Rehabilitation of Federal Buildings: 

A Benefit/Cost Model. Volume 2: Supporting Documentation

(September 1994)

8

This document contains background information related to FEMA 255, including information on valuing public-sector services, discount rates and multipliers, the dollar value of human life, and technical issues that affect benefit-cost 

analysis, such as seismic risk assessment and sensitivity analysis.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1906

New Construction

FEMA P-1050 DVD, 2015 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions and Additional Resources

8 >

This DVD is a compendium of resources associated with the 2015 NEHRP 

Provisions. The featured resource document is the two-volume 2015 NEHRP 

Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures. The DVD also 

includes additional design standard and building code-related resources 

derived from the new edition of the NEHRP Provisions: updated seismic 

design maps proposed for the ASCE/SEI 7-16 Minimum Design Loads and Associated 

Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures and the International Building Code (IBC) 2018; 

revised seismic design category maps proposed for the International Residential Code (IRC) 2018; issues and research needs recommended by the 2015 

Provisions Update Committee (PUC); presentations of NEHRP Provisions topics 

from the 2015 Building Seismic Safety Council (BSSC) Colloquium, and description of the USGS web tools for obtaining seismic design spectral values. 

The new changes in the 2015 NEHRP Provisions have incorporated extensive 

results and findings from recent research projects, problem-focused studies, 
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

25

and post-earthquake investigation reports conducted by various professional 

organizations, research institutes, universities, material industries and the 

NEHRP agencies.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/107646

FEMA P-1050 – NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New 

Buildings and Other Structures (2015 Edition) 

8 1

The new Provisions will provide more than 40 recommended technical changes developed and consensually approved by the Provisions Update Committee, 

Issue Teams, and member organizations of the BSSC. The major changes include a complete rewrite of seismic-response-history procedures, revised soil 

structure interaction for seismic design, a new alternative diaphragm design 

procedure, revised design requirements for seismically isolated structures and 

structures with damping systems, updated site coefficients and new requirements for foundations on liquefiable sites, adoption of new U.S. Geological 

Survey (USGS) seismic hazard maps for seismic design, strength design of 

foundations, update of modal analysis procedure, adoption of methodologies 

as alternatives for seismic qualification of new systems and components, and 

a revision of the intent of the Provisions. New FEMA P-1052CD, 2015 NEHRP 

Recommended Seismic Provisions: Training and Instructional Materials, will be published in 

late 2016.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/107646

FEMA P-1051 CD, 2015 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: Design Examples 

8 >

A collection of seismic design examples help to show where and how to 

apply the new changes in the ASCE/SEI 7-16 Minimum Design Loads and Associated 

Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures and the 2015 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures. This document is an update of the 

previous edition FEMA P-751, this edition features several new chapters 

using design examples to showcase the nonlinear response history analysis 

procedures, horizontal diaphragm analysis, soil structural interaction 

requirements, and structural design with energy dissipation devices. The new 

chapters represent some major changes in the ASCE/SEI 7-16. The document 

also provides updated design examples by construction material, nonbuilding and non-structural components. It has included a set of revised 

design flow charts. The document is intended to serve as an educational and 

supporting resource for the 2015 NEHRP Provisions (FEMA P-1050). 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/107646
26 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-1052 CD, 2015 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: Training Materials

8 >

A companion product of FEMA P-1051, FEMA P-1052 includes a series of 

lecture style presentation files. The same authors of FEMA P-1051 developed 

the presentations. The chapters are titled following those design example topics 

in FEMA P-1051. Each topical presentation provides an overview of relevant 

theoretical background, a summary of the topic related new changes in the 

2015 NEHRP Provisions and ASEC/SEI 7-16 Minimum Design Loads and Associated 

Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures, and some highlights of the corresponding 

design examples in FEMA P-1051. The presentations are suitable for advanced 

earthquake engineering design courses or short training classes for design 

professionals.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/107646

FEMA P-753DVD – 2009 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions for New Buildings and other Structures: 

A Compendium (September 2014)

>

The 2009 NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures, 

FEMA P-750, is a widely recognized seismic code resource document. This 

new compendium resource, FEMA P-753 DVD, includes the 2009 NEHRP 

Recommended Seismic Provisions, FEMA P-750, and three supporting documents: 

FEMA P-749, Earthquake Resistant Design Concepts: An Introduction to the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures; FEMA P-751CD, 2009 

NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions: Design Examples; and FEMA P-752CD, 2009 

NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions: Training and Instructional Materials. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/18152

FEMA P-752CD – NEHRP Recommended Provisions for New 

Buildings and Other Structures: Training and Instructional 

Materials (June 2013)

8 >

These instructional materials are for use with the 2009 NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions: Design Examples, FEMA P-751, and provide a means for gaining additional knowledge about earthquake engineering as presented in the 2009 

edition of the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions, FEMA P-750. These materials 

can be presented to engineers or architects by a qualified speaker with expertise in the practice of earthquake engineering, used by an individual who 

wishes to enhance his or her understanding of earthquake engineering, or 

applied by engineering academics as the basis for classroom instruction on 

earthquake-resistant design.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/30946
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

27

FEMA P-751CD – 2009 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: Design Examples (September 2012)

8 >

This publication provides a series of design examples, based on the 2009 

edition of the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions, FEMA P-750, for different 

types of construction materials and building configurations. These examples 

demonstrate the design procedures used in FEMA P-750, which serves as the 

basis for the seismic provisions in the Nation’s building codes, and make an 

excellent training tool. The examples are appropriate for a broad technical 

audience. College professors and students specializing in earthquake engineering, engineers studying for their license, and practicing engineers who 

want to keep up with the latest changes in design standards, should all find 

this document to be a useful accompaniment to FEMA P-750.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/30946

FEMA P-795 and P-795CD – Quantification of Building Seismic 

Performance Factors: Component Equivalency Methodology

(June 2011)

8 > 1

Published in 2011, this document builds upon an earlier FEMA publication, 

FEMA P-695. Although the methodology contained in FEMA P-695 provides a means to evaluate complete seismic-force-resisting systems proposed for adoption into building codes, a component-based methodology 

was needed to reliably evaluate structural elements, connections, or subassemblies proposed as substitutes for equivalent components in established 

seismic-force-resisting systems. The Component Equivalency Methodology 

presented in this document fills this need by maintaining consistency with 

the probabilistic, system-based collapse assessment concepts of FEMA P-695 

while providing simple procedures for comparing the tested performance of 

different components. It is intended to be of assistance to organizations, such 

as the International Code Council Evaluation Service, that need to compare 

the seismic performance of alternate components to that of components in 

established seismic-force-resisting systems.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/26842
28 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-749 – Earthquake-Resistant Design Concepts: An 

Introduction to the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions

(December 2010)

8 1

This document provides a readily understandable explanation of the intent and 

requirements of seismic design in general and the NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures, FEMA P-750, in particular. FEMA 

P-750 and the building codes and standards based on its recommendations are 

technical documents intended primarily for use by design and construction 

professionals. However, understanding the basis for the seismic regulations 

contained in the Nation’s building codes and standards is important to many 

people outside this technical community. This publication is designed for elected officials, members of the insurance and financial communities, individual 

business owners, and other interested individuals.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21866

FEMA P-750 and P-750CD – NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures

(2009 Edition, January 2010)

8 > 1

The NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions is a resource document for 

improving national seismic design standards and model building codes. 

It has been the primary source of seismic design requirements for model 

building codes and design standards since the early 1990s. This 2009 edition 

is significantly different from previous editions in that the ASCE/Structural Engineering Institute (SEI) 7-05 standard, “Minimum Design Loads for 

Buildings and Other Structures,” and the standards therein are adopted by 

reference, allowing this edition of the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions to focus on introducing new concepts and design methods and translating research results for practical implementation. The document consists 

of three parts: Part 1 presents recommended modifications to ASCE/SEI 7-05, 

including new seismic design maps based on the USGS national seismic hazard maps; Part 2 is a completely rewritten commentary following the ASCE/

SEI 7 chapter structure; and Part 3 contains 13 resource papers on emerging 

seismic design concepts and issues.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/18152

FEMA P-695 and P-695CD – Quantification of Building Seismic 

Performance Factors (June 2009)

8 > 1

This publication presents a recommended methodology for reliably quantifying building system performance and response parameters for use in seismic 

design. The parameters or “seismic performance factors” addressed include 

the response modification coefficient (R factor), system overstrength factor, 

and deflection amplification factor. The methodology is a refinement of an 
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

29

earlier preliminary methodology, and is based on a review of relevant research on nonlinear response and collapse simulation, benchmarking studies 

of selected structural systems, feedback from an expanded group of experts 

and potential users, and evaluations of additional structural systems conducted to verify the technical soundness and applicability of the approach.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/16648

FEMA 454CD – Designing for Earthquakes: A Manual for 

Architects (December 2006)

8 >

This manual explains the principles of seismic design in ways that are easy 

to understand for those without a technical background in engineering and 

seismology. Although intended primarily for architects, the publication may 

also be of interest to building officials, owners, managers, and tenants as 

well as emergency management personnel, engineers, and others concerned 

with the seismic protection of buildings. Topics covered include the nature of 

seismic hazards, how buildings are affected by earthquake-induced ground 

motion, building site selection and assessment, how design decisions affect 

building seismic performance, seismic codes and performance-based design, 

the historical development of earthquake-resistant design, common retrofit 

techniques for existing buildings, protection of nonstructural components, 

and how earthquake protection relates to protection from other hazards.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/10672

FEMA 389 – Communicating with Owners and Managers of 

New Buildings on Earthquake Risk (January 2004)

8 1

This publication facilitates the education of building owners and managers on 

the seismic risk management tools that can be effectively and economically 

employed during the building development phase. The document, which is intended primarily for design professionals, introduces and discusses (1) seismic 

risk management and the development of a risk management plan; (2) emerging concepts in performance-based seismic design; and (3) seismic design and 

performance issues related to six specific building occupancies: commercial 

office facilities, retail commercial facilities, light manufacturing facilities, health 

care facilities, local schools (K-12), and higher education (university) facilities. 

The document also provides guidance for identifying and assessing earthquake-related hazards during the site selection process.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/plan/prevent/rms/389/fema389.pdf
30 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Nonstructural Components

FEMA E-74CD – Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural Earthquake 

Damage: A Practical Guide (Fourth Edition, December 2012)

8 >

This fourth edition of FEMA 74 has been redesigned for use online and expanded to include more examples that feature photos of actual damage and 

details illustrating correct mitigation measures. The online format makes it 

easy to browse and print out relevant details. The guide describes the sources of nonstructural earthquake damage and effective methods of reducing 

potential risks associated with such damage. It assists in identifying potential 

hazards and provides specific guidance on upgrades. The guide also contains 

a glossary, references, and an annotated bibliography for those who desire 

additional information. A nonstructural inventory form, a checklist of nonstructural earthquake hazards, and an explanation of nonstructural risk ratings are included as appendices. Target audiences for the guide include building owners, facility managers, maintenance personnel, homeowners, store or 

office managers, business proprietors, organizational department heads, and 

others concerned with building safety and the continuation of business. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21405

FEMA 460 – Seismic Considerations for Steel Storage Racks 

Located in Areas Accessible to the Public (September 2005)

8 1

This report highlights issues for consideration in the seismic design, installation, ongoing inspection, maintenance, and use of steel pallet storage 

racks located in areas of retail warehouse stores and other facilities accessible to the general public. (The considerations apply only to single selective 

steel pallet storage racks with contents elevated 8 feet or more above the 

ground.) Included are a review of the performance of storage racks in past 

earthquakes; a history of the development of codes and standards used for 

storage-rack design; information on current storage-rack design practices; 

guidance on recommended performance goals and design requirements for 

storage racks; guidelines for implementation responsibilities associated with 

the specification, procurement, and installation of pallet storage racks; suggested guidance for securing contents; recommendations for operations and 

use; suggested guidance for quality assurance programs; a discussion of current and past storage-rack research and testing; suggestions for post-earthquake inspections; and proposed modifications to seismic design provisions 

and standards for racks. Most of the report is intended for all readers with 

an interest in the seismic protection of steel single selective pallet storage 

racks and their contents. Chapters 4 through 6 and Appendices A through 

Dare technical and will be of interest primarily to rack-design engineers and 

seismic code and standards writers.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/873
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

31

FEMA 412 to FEMA 414 – Installing Seismic Restraints

8 1

These three fully illustrated guides show equipment installers how to attach 

mechanical equipment (FEMA 412), electrical equipment (FEMA 413), and 

duct and pipe (FEMA 414) to buildings to minimize earthquake damage. The 

guides describe various types of equipment and the methods used to install 

them, and for each installation method, identify the type of attachment needed. Step-by-step instructions and precautions for each type of attachment are 

included. Examples of anchoring and seismic-restraint devices; instructions 

for installing and attaching equipment in different configurations; and special 

cases for housekeeping pads, cable assemblies, supports for control panels, 

and residential equipment are also presented.

• FEMA 412 – Installing Seismic Restraints for Mechanical 

Equipment (August 2005)

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2142

• FEMA 413 – Installing Seismic Restraints for Electrical 

Equipment (January 2004) 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/843

• FEMA 414 – Installing Seismic Restraints for Duct and 

Pipe (January 2004) 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/848

Lifelines

FEMA 233 – Earthquake Resistant Construction of Gas and 

Liquid Fuel Pipeline Systems Serving or Regulated by the 

Federal Government (July 1992)

8 1

This document summarizes the vulnerability of gas and liquid-fuel pipeline 

systems to damage in past earthquakes. It lists the available standards and 

technologies that can protect such facilities against earthquake damage. An 

overview of measures taken by various Federal agencies to protect pipeline 

systems is presented. The appendix presents summaries of statements made 

by representatives of Federal agencies and other organizations contacted 

during the study.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2978
32 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 226 – Collocation Impacts on the Vulnerability of Lifelines 

during Earthquakes with Applications to the Cajon Pass, 

California (February 1992)

8 1

This report presents a new analytical method for identifying the increase in 

the seismic vulnerability of individual lifeline systems (communication systems, electric power systems, fuel pipelines, and transportation lifelines) due 

to their proximity to other lifelines in the Cajon Pass. The method calculates 

a parameter that can be used to adjust the damage-state values for shaking as 

determined by the Applied Technology Council’s ATC-13 damage probability 

matrices. The primary objective of the study was to determine how the time 

to restore full service would be affected by the collocation of several types of 

lifelines in the same congested corridor. The new method is applied to the 

Cajon Pass lifelines. The design program AutoCAD is used to develop overlays 

of the lifeline routes with seismic and geologic information presented in 

FEMA 225.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3684

FEMA 225 – Inventory of Lifelines in the Cajon Pass, California 

(February 1992)

8 1

This publication provides an inventory of the major lifeline systems in the 

Cajon Pass, and describes the earthquake and geologic analysis tools available 

to identify and define the level of seismic risk to those lifelines. It evaluates 

the vulnerabilities resulting from the siting of multiple lifeline systems in 

confined and at-risk areas and from potential interactions among these systems in natural and man-made disasters. Potential mitigation techniques for 

communication, electric power, fuel pipeline, and transportation lifelines are 

identified. Detailed maps indicate lifeline locations. The report also discusses 

seismic hazards and predictive models for evaluating the damage potentials 

associated with these hazards.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3671

FEMA 221 – Collocation Impacts on the Vulnerability of Lifelines 

during Earthquakes with Applications to the Cajon Pass, 

California: Study Overview (October 1991)

8 1

This report summarizes a study of lifeline systems located along the Cajon Pass 

in southern California. The study included analysis of communication, electric 

power, fuel pipeline, and transportation lifelines. This study overview describes 

how collocation may influence each lifeline’s seismic vulnerability. A brief description of the screening tool developed during the study is provided.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2973
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

33

FEMA 224 – Seismic Vulnerability and Impact of Disruption of 

Lifelines in the Conterminous United States (September 1991)

8 1

This report provides a national overview of lifeline seismic vulnerability and 

the impacts of lifeline disruptions. Both site-specific lifelines and extended 

lifeline networks are examined. Included is a review of electrical, water, 

transportation, and emergency-service systems. The vulnerability estimates 

and impacts are presented in terms of estimated direct damage losses and 

indirect economic losses. The report also presents hazard mitigation measures 

and their expected benefits as well as recommendations for future work.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1738

FEMA 202 – Earthquake Resistant Construction of Electric 

Transmission and Telecommunication Facilities Serving the 

Federal Government (September 1990)

8 1

This report summarizes a National Institute of Standards and Technology 

study that reviewed measures implemented by Federal agencies to protect 

electric power transmission and telecommunication lifelines against seismic 

hazards. The report examines the seismic vulnerability of these lifelines and 

discusses current standards and design criteria. Seismic retrofitting techniques for components and systems are reviewed, including the benefits of 

retrofitting versus gradual replacement. A summary of Federal practices in 

the design of new facilities and the retrofit of existing facilities is included.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2964

Performance-Based Seismic Design

FEMA P-58-1 – Seismic Performance Assessment of Buildings: 

Volume 1 – Methodology (May 2013)

8 1

This publication presents a methodology for assessing how well a building is 

likely to perform in an earthquake. The methodology expresses performance 

as the probable losses (casualties, repair costs, repair time, environmental impacts) resulting from earthquake-induced building damage. It takes into account the uncertainty that is inherent in predictions of future outcomes, and 

enables the sources of losses to be identified, which facilitates the refinement 

of building designs. Seismic performance assessments developed with this 

methodology will allow decision makers to more easily perform cost-benefit 

analyses and select appropriate performance goals for seismic design projects.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/90380
34 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-58-2 – Seismic Performance Assessment of Buildings: 

Volume 2 – Implementation Guide (May 2013)

8 1

Intended for building design professionals, this publication explains how to 

use the seismic performance assessment methodology that is described in 

FEMA P-58-1 (see above).

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/90380

FEMA P-58CD – Seismic Performance Assessment of Buildings: 

Volume 3 – Supporting Materials (May 2013)

>

The FEMA P-58 CD contains the performance assessment methodology 

document (FEMA P- 58-1) and the accompanying implementation guide 

(FEMA P-58-2), as well as supporting electronic materials and background 

documents, including the Performance Assessment Calculation Tool (PACT) 

spreadsheet and information about environmental benefits.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/90380

FEMA P-440A – Effects of Strength and Stiffness Degradation on 

Seismic Response (June 2009)

8 1

This document is a follow-on publication to Improvement of Nonlinear Static Seismic Analysis Procedures, FEMA 440. It provides information that will improve 

nonlinear analysis for cyclic response, considering cyclic and in-cycle degradation of strength and stiffness. Recent work has demonstrated that it is 

important to be able to differentiate between cyclic and in-cycle degradation 

in order to more accurately model degrading behavior, while current practice only recognizes cyclic degradation, or does not distinguish between the 

two. The material contained within this publication is expected to improve 

nonlinear modeling of structural systems, and ultimately make the seismic 

retrofit of existing hazardous buildings more cost-effective.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/17037

FEMA 461 – Interim Testing Protocols for Determining the 

Seismic Performance Characteristics of Structural and 

Nonstructural Components (June 2007)

8 1

This publication was developed under FEMA’s next-generation performance-based seismic design (PBSD) project with the ATC, and is one of the 

first major accomplishments achieved under the program plan described in 

FEMA 445. FEMA 461 provides methodologies that can be used to measure 

the seismic performance of buildings’ structural or nonstructural compo-
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

35

nents in a consistent and comparable manner. It describes in detail two laboratory testing protocols that determine fragility functions for various 

building systems and components. The first protocol, Quasi-Static Cyclic 

Testing of Structural and Nonstructural Components and Systems, can be 

used to test shear walls, beam-column assemblies, drywall partitions, cladding panels, pipes, ducts, and other elements whose behavior is sensitive to 

the relative motion of several floors or vertical connections within a building. The second protocol, Shake Table Testing of Structural and Nonstructural 

Components and Systems, is designed for testing mechanical and electrical 

equipment and other elements that are sensitive to the dynamic effects of 

motion imparted at a single point of attachment. Although these protocols 

are intended as interim methods that will be finalized over time as they are 

used and evaluated by researchers nationwide, they are nevertheless a significant step forward in the development of PBSD.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15207

FEMA 445 – Next-Generation Performance-Based Seismic 

Design Guidelines: Program Plan for New and Existing 

Buildings (August 2006)

8 1

This publication is a step-by-step program plan for the FEMA project 

with the Applied Technology Council to develop next-generation performance-based seismic design procedures and guidelines for structural and 

nonstructural components in new and existing buildings. The plan provides 

background information on current code design procedures, introduces performance-based seismic design concepts, identifies improvements needed in 

current seismic design practice, and outlines the tasks and projected costs for 

a two-phase program to develop next-generation performance-based seismic 

design procedures and guidelines.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/9136

FEMA 440 and 440CD – Improvement of Nonlinear Static 

Seismic Analysis Procedures (June 2005)

8 > 1

This state-of-the-art resource captures the latest advances in nonlinear static 

analysis. It evaluates FEMA and ATC procedures for estimating the response of 

structures to ground shaking and attempts to address the significantly different results in estimates of maximum displacement that these procedures 

generate. This report sets the stage for future improvements to FEMA 356 or 

the ATC report, Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Concrete Buildings (ATC–40). FEMA 

440CD contains the document (FEMA 440) and supplementary summaries 

in PDF files.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/855
36 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 349 – Action Plan for Performance Based Seismic Design

(April 2000)

8 1

This document, published as a “final draft,” explores the steps required to 

successfully implement PBSD. Topics discussed include the need for changes in current seismic design practice, the definition of performance-based 

design, and the products necessary for its effective adoption. These products 

include (1) a Planning and Management Program, (2) Structural Performance Products, (3) Nonstructural Performance Products, (4) Risk Management Products, (5) PBSD Guidelines, and (6) a Stakeholders’ Guide. The 

costs involved in obtaining both a basic framework for PBSD implementation 

and full implementation of PBSD are also outlined. This document has been 

superseded by FEMA 445, but is being maintained by FEMA for reference 

purposes.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3123

Special Construction Types – Steel 

FEMA 354 – A Policy Guide to Steel Moment-Frame 

Construction (November 2000)

8

This guide addresses the social, economic, and political issues related to the 

earthquake performance of steel moment-frame buildings. Written for building owners, local community officials, and other non-technical audiences, 

the guide also discusses the relative costs and benefits of implementing the 

design criteria recommended in FEMA 350 through FEMA 353.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/752

FEMA 355CD – Seismic Design Criteria for Steel Moment-Frame 

Structures (September 2000)

>

This CD contains technical reports on the seismic design criteria, evaluation, 

repair, and specifications of steel moment-frame buildings. It includes four 

resource documents (FEMA 350 through FEMA 353) for the design, construction, repair, and upgrade of steel moment-frame structures subject to 

the effects of earthquakes. The CD also contains six reports (FEMA 355A-F) 

that provide detailed explanations of the basis for the design criteria and 

evaluation recommendations for base metals, welding, systems performance, 

connection performance, and past and predicted performance included in 

the resource documents.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/9205
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

37

FEMA 352 – Recommended Postearthquake Evaluation and 

Repair Criteria for Welded Steel Moment-Frame Buildings

(July 2000)

8 1

This report provides recommendations for performing inspections to detect 

damage in steel moment-frame buildings following an earthquake; evaluating the safety of damaged buildings in a postearthquake environment; and 

repairing damaged buildings. Chapters cover inspection and classification 

of damage; preliminary postearthquake assessment; detailed postearthquake 

evaluations; and postearthquake repair. The appendices include procedures 

for performance evaluation; sample placards that may be used to post buildings following preliminary postearthquake evaluations; and sample inspection forms that may be used to record damage detected in beam-column 

connections as part of a detailed postearthquake inspection program.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/747

FEMA 350 – Recommended Seismic Design Criteria for New 

Steel Moment-Frame Buildings (June 2000)

8 1

This resource document for organizations engaged in the development of 

building codes and standards provides recommended guidelines for the 

design and construction of steel moment- frame buildings and alternative 

performance-based design criteria. It supplements the NEHRP Recommended 

Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures, FEMA P-750. A series of prequalified connection details, as well as a detailed procedure for performance 

evaluation, are included.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2098

FEMA 351 – Recommended Seismic Evaluation and Upgrade 

Criteria for Existing Welded Steel Moment-Frame Buildings 

(June 2000)

8 1

This publication provides recommended methods for evaluating the probable 

performance of existing steel moment-frame buildings in future earthquakes. 

It presents guidelines on how to retrofit these buildings for improved performance, a simplified procedure for estimating the probable post-earthquake 

repair costs, and methods for developing building-specific vulnerability and 

loss functions for steel moment-frame buildings.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3736
38 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 353 – Recommended Specifications and Quality 

Assurance Guidelines for Steel Moment-Frame Construction for 

Seismic Applications (June 2000)

8

This two-part publication provides recommended specifications for the fabrication and erection of steel moment-frames for seismic applications. Part 

One covers recommended specifications, including information on products, 

execution, welded joint and fabrication details, and quality control and assurance. Part Two outlines quality-assurance guidelines; contractor qualifications 

and quality tasks; quality-assurance agency qualifications and quality-assurance tasks; and recommended methods for determining whether structural 

steel materials, welded joints, and bolted joints meet the applicable standards. 

The recommended design criteria contained in FEMA 350, FEMA 351, and 

FEMA 352 are based on the standards presented in this document.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2103

Special Construction Types – Concrete

FEMA 306 and FEMA P-306/307/308CD – Evaluation 

of Earthquake Damaged Concrete and Masonry Wall 

Buildings: Basic Procedures Manual (May 1999)

8 > 1

This document provides practical criteria and guidance for evaluating earthquake damage to concrete and masonry-wall buildings. Component Damage 

Classification Guides and Test and Investigation Guides are included. Detailed 

drawings accompany the text.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3068

FEMA 307 – Evaluation of Earthquake Damaged Concrete and 

Masonry Wall Buildings: Technical Resources (May 1999)

8 1

This publication provides background and theoretical information to be used in 

conjunction with FEMA 306. Analytical and experimental findings are included, 

as well as information on the Component Damage Classification Guides.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3073
EARTHQUAKE PUBLICATIONS

39

FEMA 308 – The Repair of Earthquake Damaged Concrete and 

Masonry Wall Buildings (May 1999)

8 1

This document provides practical guidance for the repair and upgrade 

of earthquake-damaged concrete and masonry-wall buildings. Audiences 

include design engineers, building owners and officials, insurance adjusters, and government agencies. The publication contains sections on performance-based repair design, repair technologies, categories of repair, nonstructural considerations, and repair guides.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2002

Special Construction Types – Tsunami-Resistant 

Construction

FEMA P-646 – Guidelines for Design of Structures for Vertical 

Evacuation from Tsunamis (Second Edition, April 2012)

8 1

Vertical evacuation is an issue raised by the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program, and driven by the fact that there are many coastal communities 

that are vulnerable to a near- source tsunami and are located in areas that 

would be impossible to evacuate quickly enough to avoid a large loss of life. 

Vertical evacuation structures provide a means to create areas of refuge within the tsunami inundation zone for communities in which evacuation out of 

the zone is not feasible. This document provides information and guidance 

on the following topics to assist in the planning and design of tsunami vertical evacuation structures: the tsunami hazard and its history; determining the 

tsunami hazard, including tsunami depth and velocity; different options for 

tsunami vertical evacuation structures; siting, spacing, sizing, and elevation 

considerations; determining tsunami and earthquake loads and related structural design criteria; and structural design concepts and other considerations. 

This second edition of this publication includes lessons learned from the 

March 2011 Japan tsunami as well as corrections to errors found in the first 

edition’s debris impact load calculations.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/14708
40 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Special Construction Types – Blast Resistance Benefits of 

Seismic Design

FEMA P-439B – Blast Resistance Benefits of Seismic Design. 

Phase 2 Study: Performance Analysis of Steel Frame 

Strengthening Systems (November 2010)

8 1

This is the second publication that was developed in response to the September 

11, 2001, terrorist attacks to examine whether lessons learned from natural 

hazards could be applied to ef fectively protect building occupants from manmade threats (see FEMA 439A). The study described in this document duplicated the Phase 1 Murrah Federal Building study in FEMA 439A, except that a 

steel frame building was examined instead of a reinforced concrete structure. 

A federally owned steel frame building located in an area of low seismic hazard 

was selected and a series of seismic strengthening designs was developed, 

based on the original plans. The original building and the seismically strengthened designs were then evaluated using the same blast characteristics and 

modeling used in the Phase 1 study. The results were even more encouraging 

than in the first study and demonstrated that, at least for this one example, a 

seismically strengthened steel frame building can provide a significant amount 

of resistance and redundancy.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/26690

FEMA 439A CD – Blast Resistance Benefits of Seismic Design. 

Phase 1 Study: Performance Analysis of Reinforced Concrete 

Strengthening Systems Applied to the Murrah Federal Building 

Design (December 2005)

>

This is one of two publications developed in response to the September 

11, 2001, terrorist attacks that explore whether lessons learned from natural hazards could be applied to effectively protect building occupants from 

man-made threats. Important similarities between seismic and blast loadings 

lend themselves to such examination. This first publication was developed 

for reinforced concrete buildings using the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah 

Federal Building in Oklahoma City in April 1995. This report demonstrates 

that, with such seismic design features in place, the structural system would 

have been better able to dissipate and manage the blast load effects.
41

FLOOD PUBLICATIONS 

INDIVIDUALS & HOMEOWNERS

Protecting Property

FEMA P-1037 – Reducing Flood Risk to Residential Buildings That 

Cannot be Elevated (September 2015)

8

This publication presents a range of flood protection measures available as 

alternatives to traditional structural elevation for homeowners whose residences meet both of the following conditions:

1 – The residences are existing buildings. This publication is not intended to 

address construction of new buildings in floodprone areas as these structures should be sufficiently elevated and built in conformance with NFIP 

and local floodplain management regulations.

2 – The residences are not Substantially Damaged or Substantially Improved, 

meaning that the buildings have not sustained damage or undergone improvement (i.e., reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition) where the cost 

of the damage or improvement exceeds 50 percent of the market value 

of the building before the damage occurred or improvement began. As 

with new construction, Substantially Damaged or Substantially Improved 

structures must be re-built in conformance with NFIP and local floodplain management regulations.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/109669

FEMA P-312 – Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to 

Protect Your Home From Flooding (Third Edition – June 2014)

8 > 1

This guide was prepared specifically for homeowners who want to know 

how to protect their homes from flooding. As a homeowner, you need clear 

information about the options available to you and straightforward guidance that will help you make decisions. This guide gives you both, in a form 

designed for readers who have little or no experience with flood protection 

methods or building construction techniques.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/480
42 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

ABCs of Returning to Flooded Buildings (November 2012)

8

Returning to flood damaged buildings requires careful planning. The tips 

contained in this flyer are designed to assist impacted individuals when they 

are able to reach their flooded property.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/29834

Hurricane Sandy Issue Paper - Guidance for Turning the Power 

Back On (November 2012)

8

This document contains guidance on the steps that should be taken during 

and after a power outage.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/29788

Protect Your Property From Flooding (April 2011)

8

These four publications offer information on how protecting your property 

from flooding can involve a variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining the building to installing protective devices. Most of these actions, 

especially those that affect the structure of your building or its utility systems, should be carried out by qualified maintenance staff or professional 

contractors licensed to work in your state, county, or city. 

1. Install Sewer Backflow Valves

2. Anchor Fuel Tanks

3. Raise Electrical System Components 

4. Build With Flood Damage Resistant Materials 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13261

FEMA P-85 – Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods and 

Other Hazards (Second Edition, November 2009)

8 > 1

This publication provides guidance for prospective homeowners, contractors, 

and local officials for the installation of manufactured homes in Special Flood 

Hazard Areas (SFHAs). Manufactured homes have unique challenges related 

to water intrusion into the structure. This publication addresses recommendations for foundation construction for this popular style of home. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2574
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43

FEMA 347 – Above the Flood: Elevating Your Floodprone House

(May 2000)

8 > 1

This publication shows how floodprone houses in south Florida were elevated above the 100-year flood level following Hurricane Andrew and also 

presents alternative elevation techniques.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/725
44 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

PRIVATE SECTOR & SMALL BUSINESS

FEMA P-936 – Floodproofing Non-Residential Buildings

(July 2013)

8 1

The primary focus of this guidance document is on dry floodproofing 

technologies for non-residential buildings, but it also includes an overview 

of other techniques including wet floodproofing and the use of levees and 

floodwalls. The publication provides information about regulatory requirements, design considerations, and descriptions of floodproofing methods 

and equipment. Key document features include: 1) Tools to assist the designer or building owner in determining the best floodproofing option for a particular building including a vulnerability checklist, 2) Case studies providing 

examples of applied floodproofing techniques, 3) Equations for determining 

flood forces and loads, 4) A summary of results from recent dry floodproofing research and testing for new construction.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/34270

Protect Your Property From Flooding (April 2011)

8

These four publications offer information on how protecting your property 

from flooding can involve a variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining the building to installing protective devices. A more detailed listing of 

each item in this series can be found in this catalog under “Individuals and 

Homeowners – Protecting Property” on page 41. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13261

TB-0 – Technical Bulletin 0 – User’s Guide to Technical Bulletins

(March 2009)

8 1

The Technical Bulletins provide guidance concerning the building performance standards of the NFIP, which are contained in Title 44 of the U.S. Code 

of Federal Regulations at Section 60.3. A more detailed listing of each technical bulletin in this series can be found in this catalog under “Building Professionals and Engineers – NFIP Technical Bulletins” on page 57. 

https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/nfip-technical-bulletins

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1169
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FEMA P-348 – Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damage: 

Principles and Practices for the Design and Construction of 

Flood Resistant Building Utility Systems (November 1999, 

update coming late 2016)

8 1

The overall objective of this publication is to assist in the construction of 

buildings with building utility systems that are designed and built so that 

the buildings can be re-occupied and fully operational as soon as electricity, 

sewer, and water are restored to the neighborhood.

The intended users of this manual are developers, architects, engineers, 

builders, code officials, and homeowners who are involved in designing 

and constructing building utility systems for residential and non-residential 

structures. This manual discusses flood protective design and construction 

of utility systems for new buildings and modifications to utility systems in 

existing buildings.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3729
46 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

COMMUNITY PLANNING & POLICY

Design and Construction Guidance

FEMA P-950 CD – FEMA Building Science Toolkit CD

(March 2015)

>

The FEMA Building Science Toolkit CD contains some of the key resources, 

organized by hazard, from the Building Science Library and links to additional resources. 

The Building Science Toolkit CD contains:

• General information and technical guidance for State and local officials on the design and construction of hazard-resistant buildings 

and the retrofit of existing buildings to reduce the risk of damage 

from flooding and other natural hazards

• Fifty-nine of the most widely used FEMA publications including 

design manuals, tools for assessing damage, technical bulletins, 

recovery advisories, best practices, and evaluations and comparisons 

of building codes

• Links to additional publications on hazard resistance and design 

prepared by FEMA and other Federal agencies.

The resources cited on the CD can be used with flood risk maps and other Risk Mapping, Assessment, and Planning (Risk MAP) products by local 

officials, developers, contractors and building owners to better define areas 

of mitigation interest, determine flood depth and velocity data needed for 

building design, and determine where hydraulic analyses should be conducted to assist with siting, foundation, and structure design. Distribution of the 

Toolkit CD is encouraged during the Risk MAP Community Engagement and 

Resilience meetings between FEMA and communities.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/92819

Guidance for Applying ASCE 24 Engineering Standards to HMA 

Flood Retrofitting and Reconstruction Projects (November 2013)

8

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) program provides funding for 

mitigation activities that reduce disaster losses and protect life and property 

from future disaster damages including the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 

(HMGP), Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM), and Flood Mitigation Assistance 

(FMA). An important part of funding mitigation projects involves ensuring 

that each project meets FEMA’s requirements, which includes adhering to 

project-related design standards. Specifically for flood-related HMA projects, FEMA requires projects to incorporate the American Society of Civil 
FLOOD PUBLICATIONS

47

Engineers Flood-Resistant Design and Construction Standard (ASCE 24). In 

order to integrate ASCE 24 as the minimum standard for flood-related HMA 

projects, FEMA Building Science Branch has developed a guidance document, 

methodology and checklists, and a training to compliment FEMA Policy-203-074-1, “Minimum Design Standards for Hazard Mitigation Assistance 

Projects in Flood Hazard Areas.” Appendix C and Appendix D are spreadsheet 

tools and must be downloaded separately.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/93594

Best Practices for Incorporating Building Science Guidance into 

Community Risk MAP Implementation (December 2012)

8

The Building Science Branch provides communities with guidance on reducing flood risk through publications, education, and tools that can be used 

with the Risk MAP program to help communities implement hazard-resistant 

construction. Building Science resources can be used in conjunction with 

Risk MAP products to strengthen the community’s ability to reduce risk by 

increasing design standards for new construction and by implementing mitigation measures for existing construction.

The key Building Science topics for regulatory and non-regulatory Risk MAP 

products are (1) increasing the community’s risk awareness and (2) informing the community of the vast array of FEMA Building Science resources 

(publications, training, brochures, and websites). These products can benefit 

the community by increasing their understanding of floods and how to mitigate the risk. This information plays an important role in determining the 

appropriate standards for new construction, how existing structures can be 

retrofitted to reduce future flood damage, and the benefits of enhancing or 

updating building codes to reduce the community’s risk.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/29942

Recommended Procedures for Flood Velocity Data Development

(December 2012)

8

This report highlights recommended procedures for developing flood velocity data within the context of FEMA’s efforts related to Risk MAP Program and 

FEMA’s Building Science Branch. Report sections provide detailed descriptions of velocity grid development and considerations for one-dimensional 

(1D), two-dimensional (2D), and three-dimensional (3D) models.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/29944
48 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA L-782 – Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Flood Hazard Publications (November 2011)

8 1

This brochure provides readers with a quick summary of publications that 

will help them prepare for and mitigate against flood hazards. 

Buildings located in flood hazard areas are at risk from forces generated by 

floodwaters. These forces can include hydrostatic forces from slow moving 

floodwaters, hydrodynamic forces from waves and quickly moving water, as 

well as scour around building elements, erosion, and flood-borne debris.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21155

FEMA P-758 – Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage 

Desk Reference (May 2010)

8 > 1

The Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk Reference is designed as a comprehensive resource for local officials who are responsible for the administration 

of local codes and ordinances, including the Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage requirements. It also is intended for state officials who provide 

technical assistance to communities on the NFIP. Incorporating diagrams, decision charts, illustrations, and examples, the Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk Reference is designed to clearly communicate responsibilities 

and strategies for administering this important NFIP requirement.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/18562

FEMA B-797 – Hazard Mitigation Field Book: Roadways

(May 2010)

8 1

This publication helps local government entities choose the best hazard 

mitigation solution(s) given their operational constraints and design considerations. By offering the user a quick selection tool, based on broad characteristics, the field book reduces a wide array of technical solutions to a few 

practical options. Although there are many causes of damage to roadways, 

this field book focuses primarily on flood-related causes of damage.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/19299
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FEMA P-762 – Local Officials Guide for Coastal Construction

(February 2009)

8 > 1

This guide was developed to assist building officials in understanding the 

connection between NFIP guidelines and applicable building codes and 

standards. It also explores evidence collected following recent storm events 

and recommends “best practices” where appropriate. The focus of this guide 

is on residential buildings, including detached single-family structures (three 

or fewer stories).

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/16036

FEMA 551 – Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for 

Floodprone Structures (May 2007)

8

This manual is intended to provide guidance to community officials for 

developing mitigation projects that reduce or eliminate identified risks for 

floodprone structures.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/10618

Flood Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities

(June 2001)

8

This handbook is intended to aid local jurisdictions in identifying a variety 

of feasible mitigation ideas that can be implemented during the rebuilding 

process. It focuses on projects commonly eligible for hazard mitigation funding under the Public Assistance (PA) Program.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/16572

Damage Assessment Tools

FEMA P-784 – The FEMA Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) 

(Version 2.2.1, October 2015)

8

The SDE 2.2.1 Tool was developed by FEMA to assist State and local officials 

in determining Substantial Damage for residential and non-residential structures in accordance with a local floodplain management ordinance meeting 

the requirements of the NFIP. The tool can be used to assess flood, wind, 

wildfire, seismic, and other forms of damage. It helps communities provide 

timely Substantial Damage determinations so that reconstruction can begin 

following a disaster. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/18692
50 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 497 – National Flood Mitigation Data Collection Tool and 

Repetitive Loss Property (RLP) Viewer (April 2011)

8

The National Flood Mitigation Data Collection Tool (abbreviated as NFMDCT and 

referred to as the National Tool or NT) was developed for nationwide use 

to gather information about flood-prone structures in order to determine 

potentially appropriate long-term mitigation measures. The ultimate goal of 

the NT is to provide a standardized, systematic approach to collecting and 

interpreting property data and mitigation project development.

While the focus of the NT is on data collection for repetitive loss (RL) properties, it can be used to gather information related to flood risk, building 

construction, and building value for any structure. The NT is designed to 

encourage a comprehensive sweep for information pertinent to each structure. Data fields within the NT require information from a variety of sources, 

including NFIP policy information; community building, tax, and historical 

flood records; and field reconnaissance. Having detailed data helps create a 

clearer picture of the property and its flooding issues, which is important 

in determining the most appropriate and cost-effective mitigation method. 

However, the NT can also be used for more cursory or limited data collection 

efforts as appropriate.

The RLP Viewer 2.0 is a standalone application capable of connecting to any 

standard NT database in Access format (.MDB) that uses geographic information system (GIS) to display point features representing flood-prone properties. The NT User’s Guide provides assistance in using both tools. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/966
FLOOD PUBLICATIONS

51

BUILDING PROFESSIONALS & ENGINEERS

Building Code Resources

NFIP 2015 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Checklist (February 2016)

8

This checklist can be used to guide floodplain managers, building officials, 

and designers as they compare the flood provisions of the 2015 I-Codes and 

ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design and Construction, to the minimum requirements 

of the NFIP. It is based on the standard checklist used by FEMA and States to 

review local floodplain management regulations/ordinances to determine 

whether such regulations and ordinances are complete for the purpose of 

participating in the NFIP.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/114751

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2015 Uniform Codes by the 

International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officers 

(IAPMO) (December 2015) 

8

This document contains Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2015 editions of 

codes published by IAPMO: the Uniform Mechanical Code; Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code; and Uniform 

Solar Energy Code. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/111741

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2015 International Codes

(May 2015)

8

This document is a compilation of flood resistant provisions, prepared by 

FEMA, of the 2015 I-Codes. Also included, as a separate document, is a summary of changes from the 2012 I-Codes. The 2015 edition of the I-Codes 

contains provisions that are consistent with the minimum flood-resistant design and construction requirements of the NFIP for buildings and structures.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/100537
52 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Highlights of ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design and Construction

(December 2010, February 2015)

8

The American Society of Civil Engineers maintains ASCE 24, a referenced 

standard in the I-Codes. ASCE 24-14 is referenced in the 2015 International 

Building Code® (IBC) and the 2015 International Residential Code® (IRC). 

ASCE 24-05 is referenced in the 2012, 2009, and 2006 IBC and IRC. Buildings and structures within the scope of the IBC proposed to be constructed 

in flood hazard areas must be designed in accordance with ASCE 24. The IRC 

requires dwellings in floodways to be designed in accordance with ASCE 

24 and permits use of ASCE 24. The 2015 IRC permits use of ASCE 24 for 

dwellings in any flood zone, while earlier editions permit its use in Zone 

V and Coastal A Zones. The requirements of ASCE 24 meet or exceed the 

NFIP requirements for buildings and structures in special flood hazard areas. 

Separate documents summarizing ASCE 24-05 and ASCE 24-14 include the 

following topics: Building Performance; Flood-Damage Resistant Materials; 

Utilities and Service Equipment; and Siting Considerations.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/14983

CodeMaster for Flood Resistant Design (2011, 2015)

1

In cooperation with the International Code Council and S.K. Ghosh Associates, FEMA has produced two versions of an 8-page laminated guide to 

flood-resistant design (one for the 2009 and 2012 IBC® and International 

Residential Code® (IRC®), and one for the 2015 IBC and IRC.) The CodeMaster provides designers with an easy-to-use desk reference that identifies 

the flood provisions in the IBC and IRC, as well as the flood requirements 

of ASCE standards 7 and 24. The CodeMaster is a unique and useful tool for 

designers to make sure that they incorporate the flood-resistant provisions 

of these codes and standards. The 8-page guide provides sections on preliminary considerations and design process, key flood terminology, a 12-

step process to incorporate flood resistance in the design of a building, an 

example showing the 12-step process being executed, and information on 

additional FEMA mitigation resources related to flood-resistant design. The 

document also uses illustrations to ensure a clear understanding for users in 

the professional community. 

2009 and 2012 codes: http://shop.iccsafe.org/codemaster-floodresistant-design-2009-2012-ibc-2009-2012-irc-asce-7-05-7-10-

asce-24-05.html

2015 codes: http://shop.iccsafe.org/codemaster-flood-resistant-design2015-ibc-2015-irc-and-asce-7-10-24-14.html
FLOOD PUBLICATIONS

53

Reducing Flood Losses Through the International Codes: 

Coordinating Building Codes and Floodplain Management 

Regulations (Fourth Edition 2014)

8

Developed by the International Code Council and FEMA, this guide helps 

State and local officials integrate the International Codes® (I-Codes) into 

their current floodplain management regulatory processes related to structures, buildings, and other development in special flood hazard areas in order to meet the requirements to participate in the NFIP. Chapter 2 describes 

three approaches for coordinating the I-Codes and local floodplain management regulations and identifies a number of advantages and considerations 

when relying on the flood provisions of the codes. Chapter 3 explains several 

differences between the NFIP regulations and the I-Code requirements related to specific terminology and provisions. Many requirements in the codes 

exceed NFIP minimum requirements, and some provisions are more specific 

than the NFIP, especially in the International Building Code®, which references ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design and Construction. Chapter 4 contains 

questions for States and communities to answer to know whether and how 

to modify existing floodplain management regulations to coordinate with 

the I-Codes. Chapter 5 describes modifications that can be adopted to incorporate higher standards in the I-Codes to further increase resistance to flood 

damage. Chapter 6 introduces model code-coordinated ordinances prepared 

by FEMA. The model ordinances are available at: http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/96224. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/96634

Guidance for Applying ASCE 24 Engineering Standards to HMA 

Flood Retrofitting and Reconstruction Projects (November 2013)

8

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) program provides funding for 

mitigation activities that reduce disaster losses and protect life and property 

from future disaster damages including the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 

(HMGP), Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM), and Flood Mitigation Assistance 

(FMA). An important part of funding mitigation projects involves ensuring 

that each project meets FEMA’s requirements, which includes adhering to 

project-related design standards. Specifically for flood-related HMA projects, FEMA requires projects to incorporate the American Society of Civil 

Engineers Flood-Resistant Design and Construction Standard (ASCE 24). In 

order to integrate ASCE 24 as the minimum standard for flood-related HMA 

projects, FEMA Building Science Branch has developed a guidance document, 

methodology and checklists, and a training to compliment FEMA Policy-203-074-1, “Minimum Design Standards for Hazard Mitigation Assistance 

Projects in Flood Hazard Areas.” Appendix C and Appendix D are spreadsheet 

tools and must be downloaded separately.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/93594
54 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Including Building Codes in the National Flood Insurance 

Program (November 2013)

8

The report presents findings of the impact, effectiveness, and feasibility of 

including widely used and nationally recognized building codes as part of 

the NFIP floodplain management criteria in response to the Biggert-Waters 

Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (BW12). This resource will help floodplain managers and building officials understand impacts of the new statutory potential future affiliation between building codes and the NFIP. It also 

explains long term benefits of this provision of BW12 in decreasing both 

flood losses and flood insurance rates, by bringing NFIP building standards 

up to date with hazard provisions of the I-Codes. A flyer about this document 

can be located here: https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/89851. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/85960

NFIP 2012 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Checklist (November 2013)

8

This checklist can be used to guide floodplain managers, building officials, 

and designers as they compare the flood provisions of the 2012 I-Codes and 

ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design and Construction, to the minimum requirements 

of the NFIP. It is based on the standard checklist used by FEMA and States to 

review local floodplain management regulations/ordinances to determine 

whether such regulations and ordinances are complete for the purpose of 

participating in the NFIP.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/85588

Flood Provisions of the International Code Series: Higher 

Standards and More Specific Requirements than the Minimum 

Requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program

(June 2013)

8

This paper summarizes the provisions of the I-Codes that are more detailed 

or that exceed the NFIP minimums.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/33389

NFIP 2009 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Checklist (May 2013) 

8

This checklist can be used to guide floodplain managers, building officials, 

and designers as they compare the flood provisions of the 2009 I-Codes and 

ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design and Construction, to the minimum requirements 

of the NFIP. It is based on the standard checklist used by FEMA and States to 
FLOOD PUBLICATIONS

55

review local floodplain management regulations/ordinances to determine 

whether such regulations and ordinances are complete for the purpose of 

participating in the NFIP.

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2012 Uniform Codes by the 

International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officers 

(IAPMO) (January 2013)

8

This document contains Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2012 editions 

of codes published by IAPMO:  the Uniform Mechanical Code; Uniform 

Plumbing Code, Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code; and Uniform Solar Energy Code.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/29689

Quick Reference Guide: Comparison of Select NFIP & Building 

Code Requirements for Special Flood Hazard Areas

(March 2012)

8

This guide illustrates the similarities and highlights the differences between 

the NFIP minimum requirements and the requirements of the I-Codes and 

ASCE 24, a standard referenced by the I-Codes. The illustrations highlight some 

of the key similarities and differences between foundation types, lowest floor 

elevations, enclosures below elevated buildings and utilities requirements 

contained within the NFIP and I-Codes for most residential and commercial 

buildings (classified as “Category II” structures by the building codes).

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/25986

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2012 International Codes

(January 2012)

8

This document is a compilation of flood resistant provisions, prepared by 

FEMA, of the 2012 International Codes. Also included, as a separate document, is a summary of changes from the 2009 IBC. The 2012 edition of the 

I-Codes contains provisions that are consistent with the minimum flood-resistant design and construction requirements of the NFIP for buildings and 

structures.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/24124
56 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2009 International Codes 

(January 2011)

8

This document is a compilation of flood resistant provisions, prepared by 

FEMA, of the 2009 International Codes. Also included, as a separate document, is a summary of changes from the 2006 IBC. The 2009 edition of the 

I-Codes contains provisions that are consistent with the minimum flood-resistant design and construction requirements of the NFIP for buildings and 

structures.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21130

Provisions of the 2009 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Compared to the 

NFIP (January 2011) 

8

This document is a comparison of the provisions of the 2009 I-Codes/ASCE 

24-05 and the NFIP requirements.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21135

2006 Evaluation of the National Flood Insurance Program’s 

Building Standards (October 2006) and 2008 Supplement to 

the 2006 Evaluation of the National Flood Insurance Program’s 

Building Standards (2008)

8

The 2006 study evaluates the NFIP building standards, including a review of 

flood loss and damage data for structures and communities and calculation 

of costs and benefits of modifying NFIP building standards across defined 

ranges of flood conditions and building configurations, differentiated by 

flood hazard zone. 

The 2008 document provides a supplement analysis to the 2006 study. The 

purpose of this document is to determine the cost-effectiveness of including 

freeboard within the foundation height of new residential buildings constructed in floodplains and to establish which factors should be considered when 

determining how many feet above the minimum NFIP-required elevation a 

house should be constructed in order to maximize cost-effectiveness.

2006 study: https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/

documents/9585

2008 supplement: https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/

documents/31735
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NFIP Technical Bulletins

TB-0 – Technical Bulletin 0 – User’s Guide to Technical Bulletins

(March 2009)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides a list of available technical bulletins, a key 

word/subject reference index for all of the bulletins, and information about 

how to obtain copies of the bulletins.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1169

TB-1 – Technical Bulletin 1 – Openings in Foundation Walls of 

Enclosures (August 2008)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning 

the requirements for openings in foundation walls for buildings with enclosures below the base flood elevation (BFE) and located in SFHAs shown on 

Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) as Zones A, AE, A1-A30, AR, AO, and AH.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2644

TB-2 – Technical Bulletin 2 – Flood Damage-Resistant Materials 

Requirements (August 2008)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning the required use of flood damage-resistant construction materials for 

building components located below the BFE in SFHAs in both A and V zones.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2655

FIA-TB-3 – Non-Residential Floodproofing – Requirements and 

Certification (April 1993)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning watertight construction and the required certification for floodproofed 

non-residential buildings in Zones A, AE, A1-A30, AR, AO, and AH whose 

lowest floors are below the BFE.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3473
58 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

TB-4 – Technical Bulletin 4 – Elevator Installation

(November 2010)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning the installation of elevators below the BFE in Special Flood Hazard Areas 

(both A and V zones).

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3478

TB-5 – Technical Bulletin 5 – Free-of-Obstruction Requirements

(August 2008) 

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning obstructions to floodwaters below elevated buildings and on building 

sites in Coastal High Hazard Areas (Zones V, VE, and V1-V30).

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3490

FIA-TB-6 – Below-Grade Parking Requirements (April 1993) 

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning the design of below-grade parking garages beneath buildings located in 

Zones A, AE, A1-A30, AR, AO, and AH.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3498

FIA-TB-7 – Wet Floodproofing Requirements (December 1993)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning wet floodproofing of certain types of structures located in Zones A, AE, 

A1-A30, AR, AO, and AH.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3503

FIA-TB-8 – Corrosion Protection for Metal Connectors in Coastal 

Areas (August 1996)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the need for, selection of, and 

use of corrosion-resistant metal connectors for the construction of buildings 

in coastal areas.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3509
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TB-9 – Technical Bulletin 9 – Design and Construction Guidance 

for Breakaway Walls (August 2008)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides prescriptive criteria for the design and 

construction of wood-frame and masonry breakaway walls beneath elevated buildings in Coastal High Hazard Areas compliant with NFIP regulatory requirements.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3514

FIA-TB-10 – Ensuring That Structures Built on Fill In or Near 

Special Flood Hazard Areas Are Reasonably Safe From Flooding

(May 2001)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin discusses building techniques, including the use of fill 

that can be used to ensure structures are reasonably safe from flooding.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3522

FIA-TB-11 – Technical Bulletin 11 – Crawlspace Construction for 

Buildings Located in Special Flood Hazard Areas

(November 2001)

8 1

This Technical Bulletin provides interim guidance on minimum NFIP 

requirements as well as best practices for crawlspace construction in 

Special Flood Hazard Areas.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3527
60 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Existing Construction

FEMA P-936 – Floodproofing Non-Residential Buildings

(July 2013)

8 1

The primary focus of this guidance document is on dry floodproofing 

technologies for non-residential buildings, but it also includes an overview 

of other techniques including wet floodproofing and the use of levees and 

floodwalls. The publication provides information about regulatory requirements, design considerations, and descriptions of floodproofing methods 

and equipment. Key document features include: 1) Tools to assist the designer or building owner in determining the best floodproofing option for a particular building including a vulnerability checklist, 2) Case studies providing 

examples of applied floodproofing techniques, 3) Equations for determining 

flood forces and loads, 4) A summary of results from recent dry floodproofing research and testing for new construction.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/34270

FEMA P-259 – Engineering Principles and Practices for 

Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures

(Third Edition, January 2012)

8 > 1

The third edition of this publication is intended to aid homeowners in 

selecting and successfully executing a flood retrofit on their home. Engineering design and economic guidance on what constitutes feasible and 

cost-effective retrofitting measures for flood-prone residential and non-residential structures are presented. Elevation, relocation, dry floodproofing, wet 

floodproofing, and the use of levees and floodwalls to mitigate flood hazards 

are discussed. This edition was updated to be more user-friendly and concise, and the overall length of the publication has been shortened. New and 

updated graphics, as well as newly updated design calculation examples and 

case studies, are presented. Equations, example calculations, and the guidance 

in the text have been updated to reflect the most current editions of building 

codes and standards. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3001
FLOOD PUBLICATIONS

61

New Construction

FEMA P-55 – Coastal Construction Manual: Principles and 

Practices of Planning, Siting, Designing, Constructing, and 

Maintaining Residential Buildings in Coastal Areas

(Fourth Edition, August 2011)

8 > 1

The 2011 Coastal Construction Manual, Fourth Edition, is a two-volume publication that provides a comprehensive approach to planning, siting, designing, 

constructing, and maintaining homes in the coastal environment. Volume I 

provides information about hazard identification, siting decisions, regulatory 

requirements, economic implications, and risk management. The primary 

audience for Volume I is design professionals, officials, and those involved in 

the decision-making process. 

Volume II contains in-depth descriptions of design, construction, and maintenance practices that, when followed, will increase the durability of residential buildings in the harsh coastal environment and reduce economic losses 

associated with coastal natural disasters. The primary audience for Volume II 

is the design professional who is familiar with building codes and standards 

and has a basic understanding of engineering principles.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3293

FEMA P-499 – Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction 

Technical Fact Sheet Series (December 2010)

8 > 1

This publication contains a series of 37 fact sheets that provide technical 

guidance and recommendations concerning the construction of coastal 

residential buildings. The fact sheets present information aimed at improving the performance of buildings subject to flood and wind forces in coastal 

environments. The fact sheets make extensive use of photographs and drawings to illustrate NFIP regulatory requirements, the proper siting of coastal 

buildings, and recommended design and construction practices for building 

components, including structural connections, the building envelope, 

utilities, and accessory structures. Many of the fact sheets also include lists of 

additional resources that provide more information about the topics discussed. Where appropriate, resources are accompanied by active web links. 

The fact sheets are divided into nine categories: General, Planning, Foundations, Load Paths, Wall Systems, Openings, Roofing, Attachments, and Repairs. A guide, including References and Resources, is also included.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/6131
62 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-550 – Recommended Residential Construction in 

Coastal Areas: Building on Strong and Safe Foundations

(Second Edition, December 2009)

8 > 1

This design manual provides recommended designs and guidance for rebuilding homes destroyed by hurricanes in coastal areas. The manual also 

provides guidance in designing and building less vulnerable new homes that 

reduce the risk to life and property. Construction plans and specifications in 

AutoCad format are also available.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3972

Nonstructural Components

FEMA P-348 – Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damage: 

Principles and Practices for the Design and Construction of 

Flood Resistant Building Utility Systems (November 1999, 

update coming late 2016)

8 1

The overall objective of this publication is to assist in the construction of 

buildings with building utility systems that are designed and built so that 

the buildings can be re-occupied and fully operational as soon as electricity, 

sewer, and water are restored to the neighborhood.

The intended users of this manual are developers, architects, engineers, 

builders, code officials, and homeowners who are involved in designing 

and constructing building utility systems for residential and non-residential 

structures. This manual discusses flood protective design and construction 

of utility systems for new buildings and modifications to utility systems in 

existing buildings

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3729
FLOOD PUBLICATIONS

63

MITIGATION ASSESSMENT TEAM REPORTS

In response to disasters, FEMA assembles a team of national experts from 

the design and construction industry, as well as from FEMA Headquarters 

and Regional Offices. This group is known as a Mitigation Assessment Team 

(MAT; formerly known as a Building Performance Assessment Team [BPAT]) 

and comprises structural, wind, and civil engineers; architects; coastal scientists; building code experts; and flood preservation specialists, as well as 

representatives from other government agencies, laboratories, associations, 

and universities. The MAT evaluates and assesses damage from hurricanes and 

other natural disasters, and provides observations, conclusions, and recommendations on the performance of buildings and other structures impacted 

by wind and flood forces. The conclusions and recommendations of the MAT 

reports provide decision-makers with information and technical guidance 

that can be used to reduce future damage from natural disasters. MAT reports 

for hurricanes include information on the flood hazard. A detailed listing 

of hurricane MAT reports can be found in this catalog under “High Wind – 

Mitigation Assessment Team Reports” on page 75. 

FEMA P-765 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Midwest 

Floods of 2008 in Iowa and Wisconsin: Building Performance 

Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance 

(October 2009) 

8 > 1

In August and September 2008, the MAT deployed to the States of Iowa and 

Wisconsin to assess damage caused by riverine flooding from the 2008 Midwest floods. This report presents the MAT’s observations on the success and 

failure of buildings impacted by these floods. Several examples of mitigation 

success stories were noted, as well lessons learned and recommendations 

resulting from field investigations. The report includes recovery advisories 

related to supporting homeowners making fundamental decisions relative to 

rebuilding as well as offering proactive methods to support the continuity of 

operations for critical facilities.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/17329

2008 Midwest Floods Recovery Advisories (October 2009)

8

The MAT report for the Midwest Floods in Iowa and Wisconsin (FEMA 

P-765) contains two flood recovery advisories on considerations for rebuilding a flood-damaged house and design considerations for improving critical 

facility functionality during flood events.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/17099
64 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

65

HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS 

Additional publications that include wind mitigation in coastal construction are listed under 

“Flood Publications” starting on page 41.

INDIVIDUALS & HOMEOWNERS

Protecting Property

Protect Your Property From High Winds (April 2011)

8

These eight publications offer information on how protecting your property 

from high winds can involve a variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining your building to installing protective devices. Most of these actions, 

especially those that affect the exterior shell of your building, should be carried 

out by qualified maintenance staff or professional contractors licensed to work 

in your state, county, or city. For buildings with Exterior Insulation Finishing 

System (EIFS) walls, a type of wall often used for commercial buildings, one 

example of wind protection is inspecting and maintaining the walls.

1. Protect Windows and Doors with Covers 

2. Reinforce or Replace Garage Doors 

3. Brace Gable End Roof Framing

4. Secure Composition Shingle Roofs

5. Secure Built-Up and Single-Ply Roofs

6. Secure Metal Siding and Metal Roofs 

7. Remove Trees and Potential Windborne Missiles

8. Maintain EIFS Walls

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13270

FEMA P-804 – Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings 

(December 2010)

8 > 1

This publication provides guidance on how to improve the wind resistance 

of existing residential buildings in the hurricane-prone regions throughout the United States. Wind-related damage can be reduced or prevented by 

improving the performance of residential buildings in these areas. Retrofitting a home is most effective when building components are strengthened in 

groups, or packages, to achieve a more complete improvement to the performance of the building. This guide proposes three “Mitigation Packages” 

retrofits – Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Components of each mitigation 

package are presented in the guide. The improvements of each package build 

on the retrofits of the previous package to provide increasing levels of wind 

hazard resistance.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21082
66 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Safe Rooms

FEMA P-361 – Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: 

Guidance for Community and Residential Safe Rooms

(Third Edition, March 2015)

8 > 1

This publication presents important information about the design and construction of community and residential safe rooms that will provide protection during tornado and hurricane events.

The third edition of FEMA P-361 presents updated and refined criteria for 

safe rooms compared to the second edition’s 2008 criteria. This edition also 

features clarified guidance and revised commentary to reflect 6 more years 

of post-damage assessments and lessons learned, including those based on 

many safe rooms directly impacted by tornadoes.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3140

Foundation and Anchoring Criteria for Safe Rooms Fact Sheet 

(October 2015)

8

Prefabricated safe rooms are becoming more popular as people seek protection from tornadoes. Due to the extreme forces safe rooms may experience, 

there are very specific foundation and anchoring requirements that, if overlooked, can leave occupants at risk of injury or death during tornadoes. This 

fact sheet provides graphics and useful information about the foundation and 

anchoring criteria in FEMA P-361, Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: Guidance 

for Community and Residential Safe Rooms, Third Edition, which uses ICC 500, Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters, as a referenced standard.

Residential Safe Room Fact Sheet (February 2015)

8

This fact sheet provides information about residential safe rooms and explains that a safe room is a room or structure specifically designed and 

constructed to resist wind pressures and wind-borne debris impacts during 

an extreme-wind event, like tornadoes and hurricanes, for the purpose of 

providing life-safety protection.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/23116
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

67

Flood Hazard Elevation and Siting Criteria for Residential Safe 

Rooms (February 2015)

8

This quick guide provides information on and includes illustrations of flood 

hazard elevation and siting criteria for residential safe rooms, based on criteria from FEMA P-361 and FEMA P-320.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/101967

FEMA P-320 – Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a 

Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business (Fourth Edition, 

December 2014)

8 > 1

Having a safe room built for your home or small business can help provide 

near-absolute protection for you and your family or employees from injury 

or death caused by the dangerous forces of extreme winds such as tornadoes 

and hurricanes. Taking Shelter from the Storm, Building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small 

Business, FEMA P-320, now in its fourth edition, helps home or small business 

owners assess their risk and determine the best type of safe room for their 

needs. FEMA P-320 includes safe room designs and shows you and your 

builder/contractor or local design professional how to construct a safe room 

for your home or small business. Design options include safe rooms located 

inside or outside of a new home or small business.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2009

FEMA L-233 – Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a Safe 

Room for Your Home or Small Business (December 2014)

8 1

This brochure is about FEMA P-320, Taking Shelter from the Storm, Building a Safe 

Room for Your Home or Small Business, which is now in its fourth edition. It describes briefly how having a safe room built for your home or small business can help provide near-absolute protection for you and your family 

or employees from injury or death caused by the dangerous forces of extreme-winds such as tornadoes and hurricanes.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/14951
68 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Residential Safe Room Doors Fact Sheet (September 2014)

8

Residential safe rooms are becoming more popular as families seek protection 

from violent tornadoes. Like any other room, safe rooms must be accessed 

through an opening or door. Just as the walls and roof of a safe room are 

designed and built to protect against extreme winds and wind-borne debris, 

so must the safe room door. When careful selection and installation of the safe 

room door assembly is overlooked, the safe room door opening can leave occupants at great risk of injury or death during tornadoes.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/99139 
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

69

PRIVATE SECTOR & SMALL BUSINESS

FEMA P-361 – Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: 

Guidance for Community and Residential Safe Rooms

(Third Edition, March 2015)

8 > 1

This publication presents important information about the design and construction of community and residential safe rooms that will provide protection during tornado and hurricane events.

The third edition of FEMA P-361 presents updated and refined criteria for 

safe rooms compared to the second edition’s 2008 criteria. This edition also 

features clarified guidance and revised commentary to reflect 6 more years 

of post-damage assessments and lessons learned, including those based on 

many safe rooms directly impacted by tornadoes.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3140

Protect Your Property From High Winds (April 2011)

8

These eight publications offer information on how protecting your property 

from high winds can involve a variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining your building to installing protective devices. A more detailed listing 

of each item in this series can be found in this catalog under “Individuals 

and Homeowners – Protecting Property” on page 65. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13270
70 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

COMMUNITY PLANNING & POLICY

Design and Construction Guidance

FEMA P-388-CD – Safe Room Resources CD (March 2015)

>

This CD contains displays, posters, handouts, multimedia, and other resources 

that provide information about mitigating for tornadoes or other high-wind 

events and the importance of safe rooms in saving lives during such events.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/23315

FEMA L-780 – Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Wind Hazard Publications (March 2015)

8 1

This brochure provides readers with a quick summary of publications that 

will help them prepare for and mitigate against wind hazards. It describes 

how severe wind storms often directly damage roofs, windows, and exterior 

finishes. The impact that wind has on the envelope of a building can also impact the superstructure of the building, and breaches in a building envelope 

frequently contribute to additional damages. Debris such as signs, roofing 

material, and other small items can also become flying missiles during wind 

events, which can pose a danger to a home or the safety of its occupants.

Proper design and construction provides resilient buildings that resist damages from hurricane-force winds and other high-wind events.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21150

Community Safe Room Fact Sheet (February 2015)

8

This fact sheet provides information about safe rooms and explains that 

a safe room is a room or structure specifically designed and constructed 

to resist wind pressures and wind-borne debris impacts during an extreme-wind event, like tornadoes and hurricanes, for the purpose of providing life-safety protection.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/23112
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

71

FEMA L-781 – Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Hurricane Hazard Publications (November 2011) 

8 1

This brochure provides readers with a quick summary of publications that 

will help them prepare for and mitigate against hurricane wind hazards. 

During a hurricane, homes, businesses, public buildings, and infrastructure 

may be damaged or destroyed by many different storm hazards. Debris can 

break windows and doors, allowing high winds and rain inside the home. In 

extreme storms (such as Hurricanes Hugo, Andrew, and Katrina), the force 

of the wind alone can cause tremendous devastation, as trees and power lines 

topple and weak elements of homes and buildings fail. Roads and bridges 

can be washed away and homes saturated by flooding.

Hurricanes pose a particular hazard to buildings, and proper design and construction are essential to help buildings withstand the impact of these storms.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21145

Hurricane Mitigation: A Handbook for Public Facilities

(May 2005)

8

This handbook is intended to aid local jurisdictions in identifying a variety 

of feasible mitigation measures that can be implemented during the rebuilding process. It focuses on projects commonly eligible for hazard mitigation 

funding under the PA Program.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/16562
72 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

BUILDING PROFESSIONALS & ENGINEERS

Existing Construction

FEMA P-804 – Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings

(December 2010)

8 > 1

This publication provides guidance on how to improve the wind resistance 

of existing residential buildings in the hurricane-prone regions throughout the United States. Wind-related damage can be reduced or prevented by 

improving the performance of residential buildings in these areas. Retrofitting a home is most effective when building components are strengthened in 

groups, or packages, to achieve a more complete improvement to the performance of the building. This guide proposes three “Mitigation Packages” 

retrofits – Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Components of each mitigation 

package are presented in the guide. The improvements of each package build 

on the retrofits of the previous package to provide increasing levels of wind 

hazard resistance.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/21082

FEMA P-431 – Tornado Protection: Selecting Refuge Areas in 

Buildings (Second Edition, October 2009)

8 1

This booklet presents information (e.g., tornado profiles, effects of high 

winds, case studies, selection procedures, etc.) that will aid qualified architects and engineers in the identification of the best available refuge areas in 

existing buildings. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2246

Safe Rooms

FEMA P-361 – Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: 

Guidance for Community and Residential Safe Rooms 

(Third Edition, March 2015)

8 > 1

This publication presents important information about the design and construction of community and residential safe rooms that will provide protection during tornado and hurricane events.

The third edition of FEMA P-361 presents updated and refined criteria for 

safe rooms compared to the second edition’s 2008 criteria. This edition also 

features clarified guidance and revised commentary to reflect 6 more years 
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

73

of post-damage assessments and lessons learned, including those based on 

many safe rooms directly impacted by tornadoes.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3140

Foundation and Anchoring Criteria for Safe Rooms Fact Sheet 

(October 2015)

8

Prefabricated safe rooms are becoming more popular as people seek protection from tornadoes. Due to the extreme forces safe rooms may experience, 

there are very specific foundation and anchoring requirements that, if overlooked, can leave occupants at risk of injury or death during tornadoes. This 

fact sheet provides graphics and useful information about the foundation and 

anchoring criteria in FEMA P-361, Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: Guidance 

for Community and Residential Safe Rooms, Third Edition, which uses ICC 500, Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters, as a referenced standard.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/112029

Highlights of ICC 500-2014, ICC/NSSA Standard for the Design 

and Construction of Storm Shelters (September 2015)

8

ICC 500-2014 is a referenced standard in the 2015 IBC and IRC. Buildings 

or spaces designated for use as a shelter from tornadoes and/or hurricanes 

within the scope of the IBC and IRC must conform to the requirements in 

ICC 500. Highlights of ICC 500-2014 cover Administration and Oversight; 

Structural Design Criteria; Occupancy, Means of Egress, and Access; Fire Protection, Essential Features, and Accessories; and Test Methods. The report also 

covers significant changes made to the 2014 edition compared to the 2008 

edition of ICC 500. 

ICC 500-2014 is also a referenced standard in FEMA P-320, Taking Shelter 

from the Storm: Building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business (2014) and FEMA 

P-361, Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: Guidance for Community and Residential Safe 

Rooms (2015).

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/110209

Flood Hazard Elevation and Siting Criteria for Community Safe 

Rooms (February 2015)

8

This quick guide provides information on and includes illustrations of flood 

hazard elevation and siting criteria for community safe rooms, based on criteria from FEMA P-361.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/101965
74 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Flood Hazard Elevation and Siting Criteria for Residential Safe 

Rooms (February 2015)

8

This quick guide provides information on and includes illustrations of flood 

hazard elevation and siting criteria for residential safe rooms, based on criteria from FEMA P-361 and FEMA P-320.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/101967

FEMA P-320 – Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a Safe 

Room for Your Home or Small Business

(Fourth Edition, December 2014)

8 > 1

Having a safe room built for your home or small business can help provide 

near-absolute protection for you and your family or employees from injury 

or death caused by the dangerous forces of extreme winds such as tornadoes 

and hurricanes. Taking Shelter from the Storm, Building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small 

Business, FEMA P-320, now in its fourth edition, helps home or small business 

owners assess their risk and determine the best type of safe room for their 

needs. FEMA P-320 includes safe room designs and shows you and your 

builder/contractor or local design professional how to construct a safe room 

for your home or small business. Design options include safe rooms located 

inside or outside of a new home or small business.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2009
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

75

MITIGATION ASSESSMENT TEAM REPORTS

In response to disasters, FEMA assembles a team of national experts from 

the design and construction industry, as well as from FEMA Headquarters 

and Regional Offices. This group is known as a Mitigation Assessment Team 

(MAT; formerly known as a Building Performance Assessment Team [BPAT]) 

and comprises structural, wind, and civil engineers; architects; coastal scientists; building code experts; and flood preservation specialists, as well as 

representatives from other government agencies, laboratories, associations, 

and universities. The MAT evaluates and assesses damage from hurricanes and 

other natural disasters, and provides observations, conclusions, and recommendations on the performance of buildings and other structures impacted 

by wind and flood forces. The conclusions and recommendations of the MAT 

reports provide decision-makers with information and technical guidance 

that can be used to reduce future damage from natural disasters. 

FEMA P-905 DVD – Mitigation Assessment Team and Building 

Performance Assessment Team Reports (January 2014)

>

This interactive DVD includes reports, recovery advisories, and PowerPoint 

presentations for FEMA MATs and BPATs from Hurricane Andrew to Hurricane Sandy.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/101073

FEMA P-1020 – Formal Observation Report – Tornado: Moore, 

Oklahoma, May 20, 2013 (August 2014)

8

This formal observation report presents the observations, conclusions, and 

recommendations in response to field investigations conducted after the EF-5 

tornado that impacted Moore, Oklahoma, on May 20, 2013. The post-storm 

investigation team focused its efforts on safe rooms and storm shelters in the 

path of the tornado in order to analyze their performance, functionality, 

and use.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/100807

FEMA P-942 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report: Hurricane 

Sandy in New Jersey and New York (November 2013)

8 > 1

FEMA P-942 documents observations made during field visits conducted by 

the MAT following Hurricane Sandy, specifically deployed to evaluate key 

building damages. FEMA P-942 presents the conclusions and recommendations derived from the field observations with regards to key engineering 

concepts, codes and standards, mitigation measures and considerations that 

can be used in the planning and recovery process to help minimize future 

damage to structures and their related utility systems. The recommenda-
76 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

tions for disaster-resistant practices in hurricane-prone regions presented 

are applicable to planners; decision makers; designers; contractors; building 

officials; Federal, State, and local government officials; building owners and 

operators; emergency managers; and homeowners. Observations, conclusions, and recommendations related to building codes and standards; flood 

protective measures; residential construction; critical facilities and key assets; 

and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are included.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/85922

Hurricane Sandy Recovery Advisories and Fact Sheets

(2013, 2014)

8

Seven Recovery Advisories (RAs) were developed by the MAT studying the 

damage of Hurricane Sandy. They offer mitigation measures that could be 

taken to minimize damage to buildings. A list of the RAs can be seen below.

RA 1 – Improving Connections in Elevated Coastal Residential Buildings

RA 2 – Reducing Flood Effects in Critical Facilities

RA 3 – Restoring Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems In Non-Substantially Damaged 

Residential Buildings

RA 4 – Reducing Interruptions to Mid- and High-Rise Buildings During Floods

RA 5 – Designing for Flood Levels Above the BFE After Hurricane Sandy

RA 6 – Protecting Building Fuel Systems from Flood Damage

RA 7 – Reducing Flood Risk and Flood Insurance Premiums for Existing Residential Buildings in 

Zone A

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/30966

Fact Sheet 1 – Cleaning Flooded Buildings

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/31368

Fact Sheet 2 – Foundation Requirements and Recommendations for Elevated Homes

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/32506

Fact Sheet 3 – Building Science Support and Code Changes Aiding Sandy Recovery

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/100138

FEMA P-938 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane 

Isaac in Louisiana: Building Performance Observations 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (March 2013)

8 > 1

In response to Hurricane Isaac, the FEMA deployed a MAT to evaluate and 

assess damage from the hurricane and provide observations, conclusions, 

and recommendations on the performance of buildings and other structures 

impacted by wind and flood forces. The MAT included representatives from 

FEMA Headquarters and other Federal agencies, local government officials, 

academia, and experts from the design and construction industry. The 
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

77

conclusions and recommendations of this report are intended to provide 

decision-makers with information and technical guidance that can be used to 

reduce future hurricane damage.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/31386

Hurricane Isaac Recovery Advisories (2012)

8

These two Recovery Advisories were developed by the MAT studying the 

damage of Hurricane Isaac. They offer mitigation measures that could be taken to minimize damage to buildings.

RA 1 – Minimizing Wind and Water Intrusion by Covering the Underside of Elevated Buildings

RA 2 – Minimizing Flood Damage to Electrical Service Components

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/29930

FEMA P-908 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Spring 2011 

Tornadoes: April 25-28 and May 22 (May 2012)

8 > 1

In May and June 2011, MATs were deployed to Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, 

Tennessee, and Missouri, respectively, to assess the damage caused by outbreaks of tornadoes in those states. This report presents the MATs observations, 

conclusions, and recommendations in response to those field investigations. 

The mission of the MATs was to assess the performance of structures affected 

by the tornadoes, investigate safe room and shelter performance in the affected 

areas, and describe the lessons learned to help future efforts to more successfully mitigate tornado events. The objective of the report is to provide information to communities, businesses, and individuals so that they can rebuild 

safer, more robust structures and minimize loss of life, injuries, and property 

damage in future tornadoes and high-wind events. The MAT report presents 

the observations, conclusions, and recommendations for residential structures, 

as well as commercial and other non-residential and critical facilities (e.g., 

schools, hospitals and health care facilities, first responder facilities, and emergency operations centers and emergency management agencies). 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/25810

2011 Tornadoes in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, 

and Missouri Recovery Advisories

8

These eight recovery advisories present guidance on tornado risks and 

hazards in the Southeastern United States; selecting design criteria for safe 

rooms; residential sheltering (in-residence and stand-alone safe rooms); safe 

rooms and refuge areas in a home; recommendations for owners of critical 

facilities located in tornado-prone regions; recommendations for architects 

and engineers for critical facilities located in tornado-prone regions; 
78 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

rebuilding and repairing a home after a tornado; and reconstructing non-residential buildings after a tornado.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/22024

FEMA P-757 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane 

Ike in Texas and Louisiana: Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (April 2009)

8 > 1

Hurricane Ike was the ninth named storm during the 2008 hurricane season 

and the seventh of the season’s storms to hit the U.S. mainland. Hurricane 

Ike is likely to be one of the costliest and most destructive hurricanes in U.S. 

history; the total damage was estimated to be $21.3 billion dollars, making it 

the fourth costliest hurricane in history behind Hurricanes Katrina (2005), 

Andrew (1992), and Wilma (2005). The MAT report focuses on damage 

to critical facilities and residential construction for both flood and wind. A 

special section focuses on damage to high-rise buildings in downtown Houston. Recommendations focus on actions that should be taken as part of the 

rebuilding efforts in Texas and Louisiana.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15498

Hurricane Ike Recovery Advisories (2009) 

8

The MAT report for Hurricane Ike (FEMA P-757) contains eight hurricane 

recovery advisories on attachment of brick veneer in high-wind regions; 

design and construction in Coastal A Zones; designing for flood levels above 

the BFE; enclosures and breakaway walls; erosion, scour, and foundation design; metal roof systems in high-wind regions; minimizing water intrusion 

through roof vents in high-wind regions; and siding installation in highwind regions.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15100

FEMA 549 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane 

Katrina in the Gulf Coast: Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (July 2006)

8 > 1

Hurricane Katrina was one of the strongest and most destructive storms to 

hit the Gulf Coast of the United States in the last 100 years. Katrina significantly exceeded the base flood elevations (BFEs) by as much as 15 feet along 

parts of the Louisiana and Mississippi coasts. Flooding extended well beyond 

the inland flood limits of the SHFA, and the highest storm surge in U.S. history was recorded along the Mississippi coast. The American Red Cross estimated that Katrina destroyed over 300,000 single-family homes in Louisiana 

and Mississippi.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/4069
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

79

FEMA 548 – Summary Report on Building Performance: 

Hurricane Katrina 2005 (April 2006) 

8 1

This is an 80-page summary of the almost 700-page FEMA 549 MAT report.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1054

Hurricane Katrina Recovery Advisories (2005) 

8

The MAT report for Hurricane Katrina (FEMA 549) contains eight hurricane 

recovery advisories on: reconstruction guidance using Hurricane Katrina 

surge inundation and Advisory BFEs; initial restoration for flooded buildings; 

design and construction in Coastal A Zones; the ABCs of returning to flooded 

buildings; attachment of brick veneer in high-wind regions; attachment of 

rooftop equipment in high-wind regions; rooftop attachment of lightning 

protection systems in high-wind regions; and designing for flood levels 

above the BFE.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/9968

FEMA 489 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane 

Ivan in Alabama and Florida: Observations, Recommendations, 

and Technical Guidance (August 2005) 

8 1

Hurricane Ivan approximated a design flood event on the barrier islands and 

exceeded design flood conditions in sound and back bay areas. This provided 

a good opportunity to assess the adequacy of NFIP floodplain management 

requirements as well as current construction practices in resisting storm 

surge and wave damage. FEMA was particularly interested in evaluating damage to buildings in Coastal A Zones where Zone V construction methods are 

not required.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2338

Hurricane Ivan Recovery Advisories (2004)

8

These four hurricane recovery advisories are part of the MAT report for 

Hurricane Ivan (2004) in Alabama and Florida (FEMA 489), and cover the 

following topics: roof underlayment for asphalt shingle roofs; asphalt shingle 

roofing for high-wind regions; tile roofing for hurricane-prone areas; and 

coastal building successes and failures.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/9987
80 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 488 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane 

Charley in Florida: Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance (April 2005) 

8 1

Hurricane Charley was the strongest hurricane to hit Florida since Hurricane Andrew. The storm made an unexpected eastward turn prior to landfall 

and the storm surge was not as high as originally predicted by the National 

Hurricane Center. Charley did not cause extensive flood damage to the built 

environment and the MAT’s investigations revealed that the storm was a 

design-level wind event. For these reasons, the report primarily addresses the 

effects of high winds and the means to help mitigate them. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/905

Hurricane Charley (2004) Recovery Advisories 

8

The MAT report for Hurricane Charley (FEMA 488) contains three hurricane 

recovery advisories on roof underlayment for asphalt shingle roofs; asphalt 

shingle roofing for high-wind regions; and tile roofing for hurricane-prone 

areas.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/9959

FEMA 490 – Summary Report on Building Performance 2004 

Hurricane Season (March 2005)

8 1

This is a 68-page summary of the observation, conclusions, and recommendations from FEMA 488 and FEMA 489.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/943

FEMA 342 – Building Performance Assessment Team 

Report – Midwest Tornadoes of May 3, 1999: Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (October 1999)

8

On the evening of May 3, 1999, tornadoes tore through parts of Oklahoma 

and Kansas, in areas that are considered part of “Tornado Alley,” leveling entire neighborhoods and killing 49 people. The storms that spawned the tornadoes moved slowly, contributing to the development and redevelopment 

of individual tornadoes over an extended period of time. The report presents 

observations, conclusions, and recommendations intended to help communities, businesses, and individuals reduce future injuries and the loss of life 

and property resulting from tornadoes and other high-wind events.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/647
HIGH WIND PUBLICATIONS

81

FEMA 338 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – 

Hurricane Georges in the Gulf Coast: Building Performance 

Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

(March 1999) 

8 1

Hurricane Georges made landfall in the Ocean Springs/Biloxi, Mississippi area. 

Over the next 30 hours, the storm moved slowly north and east, causing heavy 

damage along the Gulf Coast in Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. Storm surges 

over the area ranged from more than five feet in Pensacola, Florida, to 9 feet in 

Pascagoula, Mississippi. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the 

Town of Munson, Florida, in Santa Rosa County, received the highest recorded 

level of rainfall with more than 38 inches.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/2070

FEMA 339 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – 

Hurricane Georges in Puerto Rico: Building Performance 

Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

(March 1999) 

8 1

This publication presents observations on the success and failure of buildings in 

Puerto Rico in withstanding the wind and flood forces generated by Hurricane 

Georges. Several examples of successful mitigation implementation were noted, 

but a significant amount of damage was incurred due to lack of compliance with 

and enforcement of existing building codes.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/615

FEMA 290 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – 

Hurricane Fran in North Carolina: Building Performance 

Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

(March 1997) 

8

Hurricane Fran made landfall near Cape Fear, North Carolina. Coastal areas experienced significant erosion and scour. Erosion caused by Hurricane Fran was 

exacerbated by the previous dune erosion caused by Hurricane Bertha, which 

made landfall in the same area only two months earlier. The erosion and scour 

added to the average erosion rate of one to two feet a year and left many oceanfront homes unable to withstand the loads experienced. The loss of supporting 

sand left many short pilings either completely exposed or embedded less than 

two feet.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/10893
82 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 281 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – 

Hurricane Opal in Florida (August 1996) 

8

Hurricane Opal was classified as a Category three storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale. Fifteen counties in the Florida Panhandle were declared Federal 

disaster areas. Most of the structural damage associated with the storm was 

to slab foundations; pile, post, column, and pier foundations; and framing systems. The damage was caused by coastal flood forces – storm surge, 

wind-generated waves, storm-induced erosion, and floodborne debris.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/10874

FIA 23 – Building Performance Assessment Report – Hurricane 

Iniki in Hawaii: Observations, Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance (March 1993) 

8

Hurricane Iniki was the strongest and most destructive hurricane to strike 

the Hawaiian Islands in recent memory. The team investigated primary structural systems (i.e., systems in a building that resist lateral and vertical forces), and the effects of windborne and waterborne debris and the quality of 

construction and materials. The performance of exterior architectural systems 

(such as roofing, windows, and doors) was analyzed.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/10850

FIA 22 – Building Performance Assessment Report – Hurricane 

Andrew in Florida: Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance (February 1993) 

8

The team’s investigation was similar to that conducted for Hurricane Iniki 

(i.e., the performance of primary structural systems and exterior architectural systems) and also included the effects of debris and the quality of construction workmanship. The loss of roof material and roof sheathing and the 

failure of windows and doors exposed interiors of buildings to further damage from wind and rain, resulting in significant damage to building interiors 

and contents that rendered many buildings uninhabitable.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/10827
MULTI-HAZARD PUBLICATIONS

83

MULTI-HAZARD PUBLICATIONS 

INDIVIDUALS & HOMEOWNERS

Protecting Property

FEMA P-940CD – Multi-Hazard Mitigation and Design Concepts: 

Wind, Flood, and Earthquake Training Videos (March 2014)

8 >

Educating disaster workforces and the people who live in at-risk communities about natural hazards and the ways to mitigate risk is an important 

part of the FEMA mission. FEMA P-940CD presents three videos based on 

webinars abridged from the FEMA training course E312, Fundamentals of 

Building Science – Multi-Hazard Mitigation and Design Concepts. Each video 

explains the hazard (earthquake, wind, and flood) and the hazard-related 

damage, and provides users with some common sense tools to assist with 

specific mitigation work. The earthquake video includes an introduction 

illustrated by a recent earthquake event, a discussion of the hazards that can 

arise from seismic events, the types of earthquake damage commonly seen in 

the building environment, and seismic design basics. The earthquake video 

also discusses how buildings resist earthquakes and the seismic design process for new and existing construction.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/95935

Building Codes Toolkit for Property Owners (January 2014)

8

This Building Codes Toolkit provides basic guidance and easy-to-use tools 

to help property owners understand building codes and the basic processes and standards associated with proper design, permitting, construction, and mitigation.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/30423
84 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Emergency Preparedness

FEMA IS-22 – An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness (2004)

8 1

This guide provides citizens with step-by-step procedures on how to develop, practice, and maintain emergency plans for protecting lives and property 

before, during, and after a disas ter. Also included is information for individuals and their families on how to assemble a dis aster supplies kit with a 

sufficient quantity of food, water, and other supplies. The guide is available in 

Spanish and English.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/7877
MULTI-HAZARD PUBLICATIONS

85

PRIVATE SECTOR & SMALL BUSINESS

Protect Your Business From All Natural Hazards (April 2011)

8

These two publications describe how protecting your business from disasters 

caused by natural hazards can involve a variety of actions, from inspecting 

and maintaining your buildings to installing protective devices. Most of 

these actions, especially those that affect the structure of your buildings or 

their utility systems, should be carried out by qualified maintenance staff or 

professional contractors licensed to work in your state, county, or city. One 

example of disaster protection is safely storing the important documents, 

electronic files, raw materials, and inventory required for the operation of 

your business.

1. Install a Generator for Emergency Power 

2. Protect Business Records and Inventory 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13232

Risk Management Series 

The Risk Management Series (RMS) is directed at providing design guidance 

for mitigating multihazard events. The objective of the series is to reduce 

physical damage to structural and nonstructural components of buildings 

and related infrastructure, and to reduce resultant casualties during natural 

and manmade disasters. More information on the RMS and for a detailed 

listing of multi-hazard publications in this series can be found in this catalog 

under “Multi-Hazard – Building Professionals and Engineers” on page 88. 
86 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

COMMUNITY PLANNING & POLICY

Design and Construction Guidance

FEMA P-950 CD – FEMA Building Science Toolkit CD

(March 2015)

>

The FEMA Building Science Toolkit CD contains some of the key resources, 

organized by hazard, from the Building Science Library and links to additional resources. 

The Building Science Toolkit CD contains:

• General information and technical guidance for State and local officials on the design and construction of hazard-resistant buildings 

and the retrofit of existing buildings to reduce the risk of damage 

from flooding and other natural hazards

• Fifty-nine of the most widely used FEMA publications including 

design manuals, tools for assessing damage, technical bulletins, 

recovery advisories, best practices, and evaluations and comparisons 

of building codes

• Links to additional publications on hazard resistance and design 

prepared by FEMA and other Federal agencies.

The resources cited on the CD can be used with flood risk maps and other Risk Mapping, Assessment, and Planning (Risk MAP) products by local 

officials, developers, contractors and building owners to better define areas 

of mitigation interest, determine flood depth and velocity data needed for 

building design, and determine where hydraulic analyses should be conducted to assist with siting, foundation, and structure design. Distribution of the 

Toolkit CD is encouraged during the Risk MAP Community Engagement and 

Resilience meetings between FEMA and communities.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/92819

Buildings (September 2010)

8 > 1

This publication examines current green building rating systems in a broader 

context. It identifies green building practices – the tools of today’s green building rating systems – that are different from historical residential building practices and that, unless implemented with an understanding of their interactions 

with the rest of the structure, have the potential to compromise a building’s 

resistance to natural hazard events. This publication also discusses how to retain 

or improve natural hazard resistance while incorporating these green building 

practices. While most common green building practices provide sustainability 

FEMA P-798 – Natural Hazards and Sustainability for Residential 
MULTI-HAZARD PUBLICATIONS

87

advantages with little or no effect on structural performance or durability, others require reevaluation of the building’s structural design or detailing to retain 

its integrity during natural hazard events. Often, only minimal design modifications are required to maintain natural hazard resistance.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/19750
88 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

BUILDING PROFESSIONALS & ENGINEERS

Risk Management Series

The RMS is directed at providing design guidance for mitigating multi-hazard events. The objective of the series is to reduce physical damage to structural and nonstructural components of buildings and related infrastructure, 

and to reduce resultant casualties during natural and manmade disasters. 

The RMS is intended to minimize conflicts that may arise from a multi-hazard design approach. A multi-hazard approach requires a complex series of 

tradeoffs. Security concerns need to be balanced with requirements in terms 

of earthquakes, floods, high-speed winds, accessibility, fire protection, and 

aesthetics, among others. Designing to mitigate natural hazards should avoid 

considering manmade hazards as an afterthought, but rather as a critical 

concern to be studied early during the project cycle. Natural hazards are the 

largest single contributor to catastrophic or repetitive damage to communities nationwide. Manmade hazards can be categorized as rare events with a 

potential high impact and very difficult to predict.

FEMA P-907 CD – Risk Management Series: Multi-Hazard

(April 2011)

>

This CD includes the RMS publications that relate to natural disasters (with 

publication dates through 2011).

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/101098

FEMA P-1019 – Emergency Power Systems for Critical Facilities: 

A Best Practices Approach to Improving Reliability 

(September 2014) 

8 1

This publication discusses the effects of natural hazards on electrical transmission and distribution infrastructure and on building systems. It discusses 

how to determine what facilities are critical, what equipment within a critical facility is needed to allow the facility to function and provide services, 

and how to provide emergency power to a critical facility. 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/101996
MULTI-HAZARD PUBLICATIONS

89

FEMA P-424 – Design Guide for School Safety in Earthquakes, 

Floods, and High Winds (December 2010)

8 > 1

This manual is the updated version of the original FEMA 424 published in 

January 2004. It is intended to provide guidance for the protection of school 

buildings from natural disasters. This volume concentrates on grade schools, 

K-12. FEMA P-424 covers earthquakes, floods, and high winds. Its intended 

audience is design professionals and school officials involved in the technical 

and financial decisions of school construction, repair, and renovations. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/5264

FEMA 577 – Design Guide for Improving Hospital Safety in 

Earthquakes, Floods, and High Winds (June 2007)

8 1

This publication provides design information for the construction of new 

hospitals and rehabilitation of existing ones with the purpose of improving 

their performance during the immediate aftermath of various hazard events. 

This manual is concerned with factors such as performance-based design and 

continuity of operations for this type of building. It provides a multihazard 

approach highlighting conflicts and benefits to consider when designing.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/10672

FEMA 543 – Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety 

from Flooding and High Winds (January 2007)

8 1

This manual concentrates on critical facilities (hospitals, schools, fire and police stations, and emergency operations centers). It is based on the behavior 

of critical facilities during Hurricane Katrina and makes recommendations 

on the performance of these types of buildings. It includes extensive information on the impact of storm surges to the Gulf area.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/8811
90 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses
 OTHER HAZARD PUBLICATIONS

91

OTHER HAZARD PUBLICATIONS

MAN-MADE

FEMA 403 – World Trade Center Building Performance 

Study: Data Collection, Preliminary Observations, and 

Recommendations (September 2002) 

8 > 1

This MAT report presents observations, findings, and recommendations 

regarding the performance of buildings affected by the September 11 attacks 

on the World Trade Center towers in New York City. The report also describes 

the structural and fire protection features of the affected buildings and their 

performance in response to the terrorist attacks.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/3544

FEMA 277 – The Oklahoma City Bombing: Improving Building 

Performance Through Multi-Hazard Mitigation (August 1996) 

8 1

The purposes of the MAT investigation were to review damage caused by the 

blast, determine the failure mechanism for the building, and review engineering strategies for reducing such damage to new and existing buildings 

in the future. Specifically, mechanisms for multi-hazard mitigation, including 

mitigation of wind and earthquakes effects, were considered.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/1967
92 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

SNOW

FEMA Snow Load Safety Guidance Fact Sheet (February 2013) 

8

This flyer summarizes warning signs of overstress conditions during a snow 

event, key safety issues and risks a snow event poses to buildings, and what 

to do after a snow event.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/29670

FEMA P-957 – Snow Load Safety Guide (January 2013)

8 1

The objective of the Risk Management Series Snow Load Safety Guide is to 

inform building stakeholders about the risks a snow event poses to their 

buildings, provide them with information about preventative measures to 

take before the snow season, and inform them of actions that should be 

taken before, during, and after a snow event. This document is not intended 

to provide a comprehensive discussion of the underlying issues or forensics 

of snow-induced structural failure. The purpose is instead to: Inform building stakeholders of susceptible snow loading conditions; Identify potentially 

vulnerable roof framing systems; Outline a general methodology to monitor 

buildings for signs of potential failure so that steps can be taken to reduce 

the potential risk of snow-load-induced structural failure.

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/83501
 OTHER HAZARD PUBLICATIONS

93

WILDFIRE

Rebuilding After a Wildfire Fact Sheet (November 2011)

8

Returning to your fire-damaged home will undoubtedly be an emotional 

experience. But as you go about the task of rebuilding, there are many ways 

to rebuild safer, stronger, smarter and more resilient to wildfires. FEMA has 

teamed with Firewise Communities, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, and 

the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety to provide this resource 

for rebuilding after a fire. 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/12266

FEMA P-754 – Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public 

Facilities (October 2008)

8

This Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities is intended to assist facility owners affected by wildfire disasters by suggesting mitigation measures 

that can be taken to reduce the vulnerability of damaged facilities to future 

wildfire incidents.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/16568

FEMA P-737 – Home Builder’s Guide to Construction in Wildfire 

Zones Technical Fact Sheet Series (September 2008) 

8 > 1

The purpose of this series of 17 Technical Fact Sheets is to provide information about wildfire behavior and recommendations for building design and 

construction methods in the wildland/urban interface. Implementation of 

the recommended design and construction methods can greatly increase the 

chances of a building’s survival in a wildfire. In addition to the recommendations for building design and construction methods, other fact sheet subject 

areas include selecting the construction site; defensible space; roofs; eaves, 

overhangs, and soffits; exterior walls; vents; gutters and downspouts; windows and skylights; exterior doors; foundations; decks and other attached 

structures; landscape fences and walls; fire sprinklers; utilities and exterior 

equipment; and community infrastructure.

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15962
94 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

Protect Your Property from Fire (April 2008)

8

Wildfire protection can involve a variety of changes to your house and 

property – changes that can vary in complexity and cost. You may be able to 

make some types of changes yourself. But complicated or large-scale changes 

and those that affect the structure of your house or its electrical wiring and 

plumbing should be carried out only by a professional contractor licensed 

to work in your state, county, or city. One example of wildfire protection is 

removing vegetation, yard debris, and other combustible materials that may 

be near your house. This is something that many homeowners can probably 

do on their own.

1. Dealing with Vegetation and Combustible Materials

2. Replace Roofing with Fire-Resistant Materials

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13256
TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

95

TRAINING COURSES AND 

WORKSHOPS

Numerous training courses/workshops have been developed by FEMA Building Science. These courses/workshops are typically offered either in the field 

or in conferences. They can also be offered at FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute (EMI) in Emmitsburg, Maryland. 

EARTHQUAKES

Listed below are training courses offered through FEMA’s NETAP. The courses 

are conducted by ATC, under contract to FEMA, and are designed for State and 

local building personnel, facilities managers, and other groups. NETAP-supported training is provided on site, with courses typically one day or less in 

duration, and via webinars. For more information on these earthquake training 

courses and assistance, see http://www.fema.gov/earthquake-training.

There are also many self-instructional training opportunities offered through 

the educational training tools developed by the Branch and included on CDROM, such as Multi-hazard Mitigation and Design Concepts: Wind, Flood, 

and Earthquake, Training Videos, FEMA P-940CD, March 2014. Entries in this 

Catalog for these resources describe the training opportunities. 

FEMA 154 – Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential 

Seismic Hazards

Trainees learn how to identify potentially hazardous buildings before earthquakes occur. The course covers methods and processes that enable personnel 

to rapidly identify, inventory and rank local buildings according to their expected safety and usability during and after earthquakes. Local officials can use 

these data to plan and prioritize further engineering and vulnerability analysis, 

emergency-response needs, and mitigation projects. (Course length: 1 day)

FEMA 154 – Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential 

Seismic Hazards and ATC-20-1 Field Manual: Postearthquake 

Safety Evaluation of Buildings

The FEMA 154 course, described above, may be combined with ATC-20 

training, in which students learn how to evaluate the safety of buildings 

following earthquakes. ATC-20 trainees learn to perform seismic inspections 

and safety evaluations of buildings and post appropriate safety-status placards. These evaluations and placards can be used in planning and executing 

evacuation, re-entry and rebuilding strategies. (Course length: 1 day)
96 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA 154 – Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential 

Seismic Hazards and Rapid Observation of Vulnerability and 

Estimation of Risk (ROVER) Version 2

The FEMA 154 course, described above, may be combined with ROVER Version 2 training and demonstration assistance. ROVER is open-source software 

that automates the paper-based screening procedures taught in the FEMA 

154 course. ROVER Version 2 includes many productivity-enhancing features. 

The software now works on any mobile device, such as Android, iPhone, 

iPad, and Windows Phone, with a web browser and active data connection. 

ROVER Version 2 also improves photo handling and the training material and 

user manual have both been updated and include instructions on batch-loading a pre-existing database and on the use of the RedROVER software, which 

exports ROVER data to Hazus-MH’s Advanced Engineering Building Module. 

(Course length: 6 hours)

FEMA 154 – Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential 

Seismic Hazards, ATC-20, and ROVER Version 2

The FEMA 154 course, ATC-20, and ROVER Version 2 (for all, see above) are 

combined in this training and demonstration course. (Course length: 2 days)

FEMA E-74 – Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural Earthquake 

Damage

This training describes the sources of nonstructural earthquake damage and 

effective methods of reducing such damage. Nonstructural failures have 

accounted for the majority of damage in several recent U.S. earthquakes. It is 

critical to raise awareness of potential nonstructural hazards, the costly consequences of nonstructural failures and the opportunities that exist to limit 

future losses. Nonstructural components of buildings include all elements 

that are not part of the structural system; that is, the architectural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, as well as furniture, fixtures, equipment 

and other contents. (Course length: 1 day; Webinar: 90 minutes)

FEMA P-50 – Simplified Seismic Assessment of Detached, 

Single-Family, Wood-Frame Dwellings

Using the FEMA P-50 seismic assessment system and its accompanying retrofit guidelines, FEMA P-50-1, trainees learn how to assign a Seismic Performance Grade to detached, wood-frame residential structures; identify seismic 

retrofit opportunities and priorities; and identify an improved Seismic Performance Grade, if retrofit occurs. Target audiences include building owners 

and building officials, home inspectors, design professionals, home builders, 

emergency planners, insurers, and lenders. (Course length: 6 hours)
TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

97

FEMA P-58 – Seismic Performance Assessment of Buildings

This course presents trainees with a methodology for assessing how well a 

building is likely to perform in an earthquake. The methodology expresses 

performance as the probable losses (casualties, repair costs, repair time, environmental impacts) resulting from earthquake-induced building damage. 

It takes into account the uncertainty that is inherent in predictions of future 

outcomes, and enables the sources of losses to be identified, which facilitates the refinement of building designs. Seismic performance assessments 

developed with this methodology will allow decision makers to more easily 

perform cost-benefit analyses and select appropriate performance goals for 

seismic design projects. (Webinar course length: 90 minutes)

FEMA 395 – Earthquake Safety and Mitigation for Schools

This training is for school officials, teachers, facility managers, and other stakeholders interested in reducing earthquake risks in local schools. 

Numerous school buildings located in multiple states and U.S. territories 

are vulnerable to earthquake damage that threatens safety and continued 

operations. Attendees learn how to assess and analyze seismic risks; how 

to develop actionable plans for reducing and managing these risks; how 

to secure nonstructural elements of school facilities; and how to use “incremental seismic rehabilitation” as an affordable approach for protecting 

existing buildings and ensuring occupant safety. (Course length: About 4 

hours; Webinar: 90 minutes)

FEMA P-593 – Seismic Rehabilitation Training for One- and TwoFamily Wood-Frame Dwellings

This training promotes seismic rehabilitation of one- and two-family homes 

to reduce earthquake damage and increase post-earthquake habitability. Trainees are introduced to the effects of earthquakes on wood-frame dwellings, 

common seismic vulnerabilities in these structures, rehabilitation approaches 

and available rehabilitation guidelines. (Course length: 6 hours)

FEMA P-646 – Guidelines for Design of Structures for Vertical 

Evacuation from Tsunamis

Vertical evacuation structures provide a means to create areas of refuge 

within the tsunami inundation zone for communities in which evacuation 

out of the zone is not feasible. This training provides guidance on the following: planning and design of tsunami vertical evacuation structures: the 

tsunami hazard and its history; determining the tsunami hazard, including 

tsunami depth and velocity; different options for tsunami vertical evacuation 

structures; siting, spacing, sizing, and elevation considerations; determining tsunami and earthquake loads and related structural design criteria; and 

structural design concepts and other considerations. (Webinar course length: 

90 minutes)
98 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-767 – Earthquake Mitigation for Hospitals

Students are introduced to earthquake hazards in health care settings and 

learn about methods that can be used to analyze and reduce risks of damage 

in hospitals and other medical buildings. Such facilities have unique nonstructural components, including equipment and infrastructure systems that 

can become sources of injury or damage even during smaller earthquakes. 

By implementing sound, cost-effective mitigation measures, health care 

facilities can reduce or eliminate seismic risks and ensure that, in the event 

of an earthquake, they can remain in operation to serve their communities. 

(Course length: 1 day)

FEMA P-807 – Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Multi-Unit 

Wood-Frame Buildings with Weak First Stories

This training provides cost-effective retrofit procedures for structures that 

have weak ground floors, such as buildings that use ground floors to accommodate parking, storage, or other commercial uses. These structures are prevalent in the seismically active regions of the Pacific Northwest and California. 

The guidelines have been developed for ease of use, while providing a practicable and cost-effective means to reduce damage and the risk of collapse. The 

CD-ROM included with the publication includes a complete indexed PDF file 

of FEMA P-807 and the Weak Story Tool software. Target audiences include 

building owners and building officials, home inspectors, design professionals, home builders, emergency planners, insurers, and lenders. (Webinar 

course length: 90 minutes)

FEMA P-909 – Home and Business Earthquake Safety 

and Mitigation

This training program on structural and nonstructural earthquake mitigation has three components: a Train-the-Trainer course, a Home and Business 

Earthquake Safety and Mitigation course, and a Hands-On Interactive Mitigation Demonstration. The goal of the training is to create a cadre of trainers with the ability to provide basic knowledge on earthquakes; along with 

simple steps toward safety and mitigation in their homes and businesses. The 

training consists of PowerPoint slides, hands-on demonstration instructions, 

supply lists, scripts, quiz (and answers), certificates, and posters. Audiences 

include government at all levels, emergency managers, first responders, businesses, volunteer community groups, and all others interested in leading an 

earthquake safety presentation. (Course Length: 4 hours)

FEMA P-1019 – Emergency Power Systems for Critical Facilities

This training discusses the effects of natural hazards on electrical transmission and distribution infrastructure and on building systems. The course 

focuses on how to determine what facilities are critical, what equipment 

within a critical facility is needed to allow the facility to function and provide services, and how to provide emergency power to a critical facility. 

(Webinar course length: 90 minutes)
TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

99

FEMA P-1024 – Performance Assessment of Buildings and 

Nonstructural Components in the 2014 South Napa Earthquake

Data from a USGS strong-motion recording instrument located in downtown Napa was used to investigate every building within a 1,000 foot radius 

using the ATC-38 methodology to compare their performance to the known 

ground motion and document mitigation performance. This data was used 

to evaluate the performance of nonstructural components, responsible for 

the vast majority of the damage and injuries as well as help validate the new 

FEMA P-58 Seismic Performance Assessment of Buildings and FEMA P-154 

RVS methodologies. (Course length: TBD)

FLOOD

The Flood Provisions of the International Residential Code

This half-day workshop presents basic information needed to understand 

the flood provisions of the International Residential Code. The IRC applies 

to one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes with not more than three 

stories. The code specifies foundation types, flood damage-resistant materials, 

limitations and requirements for enclosed areas below elevated buildings, 

lowest floor elevation requirements, and equipment serving buildings must 

be elevated to the same level as lowest floors (or meet the NFIP protection 

requirement). The 2009 and later editions of the I-Codes contain flood-resistant provisions that FEMA determines meet or exceed the NFIP minimum 

requirements. This session is based on the 2012 IRC, while also highlighting 

several significant changes and higher standards in the 2015 edition.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Reducing Flood Losses Through the International Codes 

This half-day course provides an overview of the joint International Code 

Council/FEMA publication, Reducing Flood Losses Through the International Codes: Coordinating Building Codes and Floodplain Management Regulations (Fourth Edition 2014). 

This course, and the guide in more detail, helps State and local officials 

integrate the International Codes® (I-Codes) into their current floodplain 

management regulatory processes related to structures, buildings, and other 

development in special flood hazard areas in order to meet the requirements to participate in the NFIP. Topics include: approaches for coordinating 

the I-Codes and local floodplain management regulations; advantages and 

considerations when relying on the flood provisions of the codes; differences between the NFIP regulations and the I-Code requirements; questions 

for States and communities to answer to know whether and how to modify 

existing floodplain management regulations to coordinate with the I-Codes; 

modifications that can be adopted to incorporate higher standards in the 

I-Codes; and an introduction to model code-coordinated ordinances prepared by FEMA.
100 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Introduction to Coastal Foundation Design and Construction 

(FEMA P-550)

This course focuses on the guidance contained in FEMA P-550, Recommended Residential Construction for Coastal Areas, developed by FEMA. It discusses the 

unique loads foundations must resist in coastal and near coastal areas (flood, 

debris, breaking waves, etc.); addresses NFIP requirements; and discusses designing for high-wind events and for erosion and scour. The course describes 

the assumptions used in developing the FEMA P-550 foundation designs and 

how the designs can be customized by professionals to develop foundations 

for specific homes. This course is offered as a 1-day course geared to design 

professionals, and as a 1⁄2-day course geared to local officials.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Residential Coastal Construction (EMI 386)

FEMA designed this 4-day course to train participants on FEMA’s Coastal Construction Manual (FEMA P-55), which is the primary, state-of-the-art reference 

for planning, designing, and constructing residential structures in various 

coastal environments. The target audience is engineers, architects, and building code officials. Floodplain management, hazard mitigation, planning, 

and building officials with building science knowledge may also apply. The 

course is taught at EMI. To register for the EMI course, all applications must 

be submitted through your State Emergency Management Training Office. A 

2-day field course and an Independent Study Course are also available.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Local Officials Guide to Coastal Construction (FEMA P-762)

This 1-day course is designed to provide local officials with the information or reference to the information that they need to effectively conduct 

their duties in coastal communities. The course is based primarily on FEMA 

P-762, Local Official’s Guide to Coastal Construction. The course will cover (1) design 

considerations; (2) regulations, codes, and standards; (3) permitting and 

inspections; (4) load paths, coastal foundations, and structural systems; (5) 

and roof coverings and building envelopes, including windows, doors, and 

openings. The regulatory requirements that coastal officials must understand 

and enforce (including the connection between National Flood Insurance 

Program (NFIP) guidelines and applicable building codes and standards) 

and the permitting and inspection processes make this course essential for 

officials in coastal communities, but also best practices, accumulated from 
TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

101

findings after recent hurricanes and coastal events, are shared with the students, so that course attendees may positively influence coastal construction 

with the lessons FEMA has gathered after recent storms. The course enhances 

the effectiveness of actions of coastal officials in their communities to make 

construction stronger and less vulnerable to coastal storms by 

focusing on helping officials reach a thorough understanding of issues 

unique to coastal environments.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Coastal Construction Workshop for Home Builders (FEMA P-499) 

FEMA developed a series of 37 technical fact sheets that provide guidance 

and recommendations concerning the construction of coastal residential 

buildings. The fact sheets present information aimed at improving the performance of buildings subject to flood and wind forces in coastal environments. 

This introductory-level 3-hour training is made available to construction 

professionals in coastal areas to facilitate their understanding and use of these 

technical fact sheets and the design and construction practices they promote.

The goal of the workshop is to provide a practical learning experience that 

enables participants, upon completion of the workshop, to cite best practices that result in reduced damages to homes affected by coastal storms, 

locate information as needed in the Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction fact 

sheets, and implement building practices that will improve the performance 

of buildings subject to flood and wind forces in coastal environments.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Buildings (EMI 279) 

FEMA developed a technical training course on proper methods of retrofitting residential buildings. This course is based on the content of FEMA 

P-259, Engineering Principles and Practices of Retrofitting Floodprone Residential Structures, 

Third Edition (2012). This course is designed to provide engineering and 

economic guidance to architects, engineers, and local code enforcement 

officials on retrofitting existing one- to four-family residential structures 

situated in flood-prone areas. The retrofitting measures presented are creative, 

practical, compliant with applicable floodplain regulations, and satisfactory 

to most homeowners. The course is available as a 4-day course offered at EMI. 

To register for the EMI course, all applications must be submitted through 

your State Emergency Management Training Office. 

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).
102 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

The Flood Provisions of the International Codes and ASCE 24

This 1-day workshop presents basic information needed to understand the 

flood provisions of the International Codes and ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design 

and Construction, and the importance of coordinating local floodplain 

management ordinances with building codes. The 2009 and later editions of 

the I-Codes contain flood-resistant provisions that FEMA has determined to 

be consistent with the NFIP. Participants will learn how the I-Code provisions 

are consistent with the NFIP regulations; understand the relationship between the I-Codes and ASCE 24: learn about distinctions between the I-Codes 

and ASCE 24, and the NFIP regulations; and learn the importance of coordinating the I-Codes with local floodplain management ordinances. 

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Using FEMA Guidance to Administer the NFIP Substantial 

Improvement/Substantial Damage Requirements

This workshop will focus on using the Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk Reference (FEMA P-758) to administer the NFIP requirements in local 

floodplain management regulations and building codes. The workshop covers 

the basics of making Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage determinations while illustrating how the Desk Reference is organized and the level 

of detail that it has on all aspects of the Substantial Improvement/Substantial 

Damage requirements. There are many factors that local officials need to consider and several scenarios they may encounter while administering the Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage requirements, which are required 

by the International Codes. Emphasis is placed on all aspects of buildings that 

must be brought into compliance, which depend on flood zone and building 

occupancy. Some of the more common examples are discussed, including 

interior-only improvements, lateral and vertical additions, and historic structures. Following this workshop, the learner will understand and be able to 

effectively administer Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage requirements. Learners already familiar with Substantial Improvement/Substantial 

Damage requirements will further their understanding of how administering 

Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage responsibilities fits into the 

overall picture of floodplain management through day-to-day and post-disaster activities. The target audience for this workshop includes State and local 

floodplain managers, building officials, and plan reviewers.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

FEMA P-784 Substantial Damage Estimator

The SDE Train-the-Trainer Course is a 2-day course designed to teach students about the SDE software and explain how the property-specific results 

are used to ensure compliance with the NFIP. It can also be used to secure 

Increased Cost of Compliance funding for property owners following flood 
TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

103

events. The SDE software was developed to assist State and local officials in 

estimating both residential and non-residential building value and damage costs using FEMA-accepted approaches. The SDE software is based on 

the concept of using damage estimates for individual building elements to 

determine whether the structure as a whole is substantially damaged. This 

computer application was created to support enforcement of the NFIP’s 

regulatory requirements and is intended to be used in conjunction with an 

industry-accepted construction cost-estimating guide. 

Using the SDE-calculated building values, the user can apply a “Percent 

Damaged” or “Improved” value to establish a substantial damage/improvement determination for each structure. The SDE application is designed to 

accommodate residential and non-residential buildings such as, single-family 

residences, manufactured homes, schools, office buildings, police stations, 

hospitals, courthouses, department stores, grocery and convenience stores, 

and strip malls.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

The SDE Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) Independent 

Study Course

FEMA has developed a 3-hour Independent Study course on Substantial Damage estimating and use of the SDE Tool. The technical presentation will be 

designed for end users of the SDE Tool and will cover all aspects of the SDE, 

including field inspections and assessments, data collection and entry, evaluation and determination of the percent damage for each structure element, 

quality control, and data assessment, as well as use of the SDE results at the 

local level in new construction or repair processes.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

HIGH WIND

Retrofitting Residential Buildings for Wind Hazards (FEMA P-804)

This 1⁄2 day course is to provide guidance on how to improve the wind 

resistance of existing residential buildings in the U.S. coastal regions where 

design wind speeds exceed 90 mph. This improved resistance can be 

achieved through the Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced “Mitigation Packages,” which offer incrementally resistant retrofit options for the homeowner. 

This course teaches how to select and implement effective wind retrofit 

projects for one- and two family dwellings. It does not apply to manufactured housing. This course follows the content of FEMA P-804, Wind Retrofit 

Guide for Residential Buildings. 
104 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

There are multiple intended audiences for this course. Homeowners should 

be involved in the process of the wind retrofit project; they must understand 

who must understand the benefits and costs of each potential decisions. In 

turn, homeowners will work with their evaluator, design professional (if 

necessary), and contractor to determine which wind retrofit project is most 

appropriate. State and local governments and entities that have mitigation 

programs in hurricane-prone regions will also benefit from this course by 

using the information to deliver technical assistance to the public.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: Guidance for 

Community and Residential Safe Rooms (FEMA P-361)

This 1-day training course presents design and construction of safe rooms 

for tornadoes and hurricanes using the third edition of FEMA P-361. The 

target audience is architects, engineers, and emergency managers. The course 

discusses how safe room design and construction criteria have changed over 

the years. In addition, the course addresses how most of the FEMA P-361 

criteria are in alignment with the requirements of the International Code 

Council/National Storm Shelter Association (ICC/NSSA) 500 Standard for the 

Design and Construction of Storm Shelters (ICC 500). Specific guidance for operational or emergency management issues, which are not addressed in the ICC 

500 standard, are also described. The course further covers the Recommended Criteria found in FEMA P-361 that differ from the ICC 500 standard. The 

latter is important because FEMA P-361 is the basis of the technical design 

criteria used for FEMA grant programs that fund the design and construction 

of hurricane and tornado safe rooms.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Safe Room 

Helpline by email at SafeRoom@fema.dhs.gov or by phone at (866) 927-

2104 (toll free).

Building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business 

(FEMA P-320)

This 1⁄2-day training course provides consumer and construction guidance 

for residential and small business safe rooms. The target audience is builders, 

contractors, and interested safe room consumers. The course uses as its base 

text the popular publication FEMA P-320, and covers assessing the need for 

safe rooms, planning for safe rooms, unique aspects of safe room design, and 

how to use the FEMA P-320 construction plans.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Safe 

RoomHelpline by email at SafeRoom@fema.dhs.gov or by phone at 

(866) 927-2104 (toll free).
TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

105

Evaluating Buildings to Identify Best Available Refuge Areas 

This 1-day training course focuses on the evaluation of proposed building 

areas for use as Best Available Refuge Areas for protection from tornadoes. 

The target audience is architects, engineers, school officials, and emergency managers. The course provides background on tornado safe room 

design and construction issues found in FEMA P-361, then presents information that will aid qualified architects and engineers in the identification 

of the best available refuge areas, as discussed in FEMA P-431, Tornado Protection: Selecting Refuge Areas in Buildings. After examining design considerations 

and beneficial characteristics of candidate refuge areas, participants review 

example construction drawings and site photos to rank building areas 

using the Best Available Refuge Area Checklist. 

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Safe Room 

Helpline by email at SafeRoom@fema.dhs.gov or by phone at (866) 927-

2104 (toll free).

MULTI-HAZARD

FEMA Best Practices for Flood and Wind Mitigation

This is offered as either a 1⁄2-day or 1-day course. It discusses wind and 

flood mitigation techniques that equal or exceed I-Code requirements 

for both riverine and coastal areas. The course provides information on 

improving hazard resistance for retrofitting projects and new construction 

of residential buildings. It consolidates information from recently updated 

FEMA guidance publications, including: Coastal Construction Manual (FEMA 

P-55, 2011), Engineering Principals and Practices for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures (FEMA P-259, 2012), Wind Retrofit Guide (FEMA P-804, 2010), 

and the Flood Resistant Design CodeMaster (S.K. Ghosh & Associates, 2011). The 

target audience is administrators, architects, code officials, contractors/

builders, engineers, inspectors, and plan examiners.

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or 

by phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Fundamentals of Building Science (EMI 312)

This 4-day course is designed to introduce potential natural hazard impacts on the performance of the constructed environment. The target 

audience is Federal, State, and local emergency response staff; local building officials; and other building professionals responsible for the design 

and/or operation of buildings or other infrastructure facilities. Hazards 

discussed include floods, winds, earthquakes, and wildfires. The behavior of each hazard is reviewed, followed by a discussion of their potential impacts on or threats to buildings and infrastructure. The threats are 

evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. The introduction to each hazard 

is followed by a discussion of mitigation strategies and techniques proven 

to be effective in mitigating the effects of that hazard. After discussions of 
106 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

the individual hazards are complete, the mitigation measures are represented 

for further evaluation relative to hazards other than the specific hazard for 

which it was originally intended. The focus is to not only identify mitigation 

strategies that may reduce the risks from more than one hazard, but also to 

consider the potential unintended increased risks from another hazard. The 

course is available as a 4-day course offered at EMI. To register for the EMI 

course, all applications must be submitted through your State Emergency 

Management Training Office.

Three videos based on webinars abridged from this training course are 

available on the FEMA P-940 CD, Multi-Hazard Mitigation and Design Concepts: Wind, 

Flood, and Earthquake Training Videos, available online at https://www.fema.gov/

media-library/assets/documents/95935. 

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).

Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety from 

Flooding and High Winds: Providing Protection to People and 

Buildings (FEMA 543)

This 2-day course on FEMA 543 was developed to help improve the design, 

construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of critical facilities in areas 

exposed to flooding and high winds. The target audience is architects and 

engineers with existing knowledge of building science. 

The performance of critical facilities (e.g., hospitals, fire and police stations, 

schools, and emergency operations centers) during recent natural disasters 

has been impaired by storm-related damages, as documented by post-disaster reports. Critical facilities provide critical life-safety services to citizens of 

affected areas. The course is intended to enable participants to support and 

implement design techniques and construction practices that will improve 

building performance and result in critical facilities remaining fully operational during and after flooding and high-wind events. 

If you are interested in this workshop please contact the FEMA Building 

Science Helpline by email at FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@fema.dhs.gov or by 

phone at (866) 927-2104 (toll free).
107

Table 1. List of Publications in this Catalog

8 ONLINE > CD 1 PRINT

PUBLICATION 

NO. TITLE PAGE 

NO. EARTHQUAKE FLOOD HIGH WIND FIRE OR 

SNOW FORMAT

Numbered Publications

FIA 22

Hurricane Andrew in Florida: 

Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

82 n 8

FIA 23

Hurricane Iniki in Hawaii: Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance 

82 n n 8

IS-22 An In-Depth Guide to Citizen 

Preparedness 84 n n n n 8 1

FEMA P-50

Simplified Seismic Assessment of 

Detached, Single-Family, Wood-Frame 

Dwellings

4, 11, 16, 

19, 96 n 8 1

FEMA P-50-1 Seismic Retrofit Guidelines for Detached, 

Single-Family, Wood-Frame Dwellings

4, 11, 16, 

19 n 8 1

FEMA P-55 Coastal Construction Manual 

(Fourth Edition) 61 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-58-1 Seismic Performance Assessment of 

Buildings-Volume 1 33 n 8 1

FEMA P-58-2 Seismic Performance Assessment of 

Buildings-Volume 2 34 n 8 1

FEMA 

P-58CD

Seismic Performance Assessment of 

Buildings-Supporting Materials 34 n >

FEMA 

E-74CD

Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural 

Earthquake Damage-A Practical Guide 3, 9, 30 n 8 >

FEMA 83 Seismic Considerations for Communities 

at Risk 14 n 8 1

FEMA P-85

Protecting Manufactured Homes from 

Floods and Other Hazards (Second 

Edition)

42 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-154 Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for 

Potential Seismic Hazards-A Handbook 18 n 8 > 1
108 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

PUBLICATION 

NO. TITLE PAGE 

NO. EARTHQUAKE FLOOD HIGH WIND FIRE OR 

SNOW FORMAT

FEMA P-154 

ROVER CD

Rapid Observation of Vulnerability and 

Estimation of Risk, Version 2 18 n >

FEMA P-155

Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for 

Potential Seismic Hazards-Supporting 

Documentation

18 n 8 1

FEMA 156

Typical Costs for the Seismic 

Rehabilitation of Existing BuildingsVolume 123 n 8 1

FEMA 157

Typical Costs for the Seismic 

Rehabilitation of Existing BuildingsVolume 223 n 8 1

FEMA 159 Tremor Troops: Earthquakes-A Teacher’s 

Package for K-6 7 n 8 > 1

FEMA 182 Landslide Loss Reduction: A Guide for 

State and Local Government Planning 15 n 8

FEMA 198

Financial Incentives for the Seismic 

Rehabilitation of Hazardous Buildings: 

Volume 1

14 n 1

FEMA199

Financial Incentives for the Seismic 

Rehabilitation of Hazardous Buildings: 

Volume 2

15 n 1

FEMA 202

Earthquake Resistant Construction 

of Electric Transmission and 

Telecommunication Facilities Serving the 

Federal Government

33 n 8 1

FEMA 221

Collocation Impacts on the Vulnerability 

of Lifelines during Earthquakes with 

Application to the Cajon Pass, California: 

Study Overview 

32 n 8 1

FEMA 224

Seismic Vulnerability and Impact 

of Disruption of Lifelines in the 

Conterminous United States

33 n 8 1

FEMA 225 Inventory of Lifelines in the Cajon Pass, 

California 32 n 8 1

FEMA 226

Collocation Impacts on the Vulnerability 

of Lifelines during Earthquakes with 

Application to the Cajon Pass, California: 

Study Overview

32 n 8 1
109

PUBLICATION 

NO. TITLE PAGE 

NO. EARTHQUAKE FLOOD HIGH WIND FIRE OR 

SNOW FORMAT

FEMA 232 

and P-232CD

Homebuilders’ Guide to Earthquake 

Resistant Design and Construction 4, 16 n 8 > 1

FEMA 233

Earthquake Resistant Construction of 

Gas and Liquid Fuel Pipeline Systems 

Serving or Regulated by the Federal 

Government 

31 n 8 1

FEMA 253 Seismic Sleuths: Earthquakes-A 

Teacher’s Package for Grades 7-12 7 n 8 > 1

FEMA 255

Seismic Rehabilitation of Federal 

Buildings: A Benefit/Cost Model – 

Volume 1

24 n 8

FEMA 256

Seismic Rehabilitation of Federal 

Buildings: A Benefit/Cost Model – 

Volume 2

24 n 8

FEMA P-259

Engineering Principles and Practices 

for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential 

Structures (Third Edition)

60 n 8 > 1

FEMA 266 Creating a Seismic Risk Advisory Board: 

A Guide to Earthquake Risk Management 14 n 8

FEMA 275 Planning for Seismic Rehabilitation: 

Societal Issues 13 n 8

FEMA 277

The Oklahoma City Bombing: Improving 

Building Performance Through MultiHazard Mitigation91 8 1

FEMA 281 Hurricane Opal in Florida 82 n 8

FEMA 290

Hurricane Fran in North Carolina: 

Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance

78 n n 8 

FEMA 

306 and 

P-306/307/

308 CD

Evaluation of Earthquake Damaged 

Concrete and Masonry Wall Buildings: 

Basic Procedures Manual

38 n 8 > 1

FEMA 307

Evaluation of Earthquake Damaged 

Concrete and Masonry Wall Buildings: 

Technical Resources

38 n 8 1

FEMA 308 Evaluation of Earthquake Damaged 

Concrete and Masonry Wall Buildings 39 n 8 1
110 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

PUBLICATION 

NO. TITLE PAGE 

NO. EARTHQUAKE FLOOD HIGH WIND FIRE OR 

SNOW FORMAT

FEMA P-312 Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting 

(Third Edition) 41 n 8 > 1

FEMA 313

Promoting the Adoption and Enforcement 

of Seismic Buildings Codes: A Guidebook 

for State Earthquake and Mitigation 

Managers

13 n 8

FEMA P-320

Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building 

a Safe Room for Your Home or Small 

Business (Fourth Edition)

67, 74 n 8 > 1

FEMA 338

Hurricane Georges in the Gulf Coast: 

Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance

78 n n 8 1

FEMA 339

Hurricane Georges in Puerto Rico: 

Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance

78 n n 8 1

FEMA 342

Midwest Tornadoes of May 3, 1999: 

Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

80 n 8

FEMA 347 Above the Flood: Elevating Your 

Floodprone House 43 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-348

Protecting Building Utilities From Flood 

Damage: Principles and Practices for 

the Design and Construction of Flood 

Resistant Building Utility Systems

45, 62 n 8 1

FEMA 349 Action Plan for Performance Based 

Seismic Design 36 n 8 1

FEMA 350 Recommended Seismic Design Criteria 

for New Steel-Moment Frame Buildings 37 n 8 1

FEMA 351

Recommended Seismic Evaluation and 

Upgrade Criteria for Existing Welded 

Steel-Moment Frame Buildings

37 n 8 1

FEMA 352

Recommended Postearthquake 

Evaluation and Repair Criteria for 

Existing Welded Steel-Moment Frame 

Buildings

37 n 8 1
111

PUBLICATION 

NO. TITLE PAGE 

NO. EARTHQUAKE FLOOD HIGH WIND FIRE OR 

SNOW FORMAT

FEMA 353

Recommended Specifications and 

Quality Assurance Guidelines for SteelMoment Frame Construction for Seismic 

Applications

38 n 8

FEMA 354 A Policy Guide to Steel-Moment Frame 

Construction 36 n 8

FEMA 355 

CD

Seismic Design Criteria for SteelMoment Frame Structures 36 n >

FEMA 356 Prestandard and Commentary fort the 

Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings 23 n 8 1

FEMA P-361

Safe Rooms for Tornadoes and 

Hurricanes: Guidance for Community and 

Residential Safe Rooms (Third Edition)

66, 69, 72 n 8 > 1

FEMA 366 HAZUS-MH Estimated Annualized 

Earthquake Losses for the United States 12 n 8

FEMA 388 

CD

Safe Room Resources CD 70 n >

FEMA 389

Communicating with Owners and 

Managers of New Buildings on 

Earthquake Risk

29 n 8 1

FEMA 395 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

School Buildings (K-12) 21 n 8 1

FEMA 396 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Hospital Buildings 21 n 8 1

FEMA 397 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Office Buildings 22 n 8 1

FEMA 398 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Multifamily Apartment Buildings 22 n 8 1

FEMA 399 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Retail Buildings 22 n 8 1

FEMA 400 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of 

Hotel/Motel Buildings 22 n 8 1
112 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

PUBLICATION 

NO. TITLE PAGE 

NO. EARTHQUAKE FLOOD HIGH WIND FIRE OR 

SNOW FORMAT

FEMA 403

World Trade Center Building 

Performance Study: Data Collection, 

Preliminary Observations, and 

Recommendations

91 8

FEMA 412 Installing Seismic Restraints for 

Mechanical Equipment 31 n 8 1

FEMA 413 Installing Seismic Restraints for 

Electrical Equipment 10 n 8 1

FEMA 414 Installing Seismic Restraints for Duct 

and Pipe 31 n 8 1

FEMA P-420 Engineering Guidelines for Incremental 

Seismic Rehabilitation 22 n 8 1

FEMA P-424 Design Guide for School Safety in 

Earthquakes, Floods, and High Winds 89 n n n 8 1

FEMA P-431 Tornado Protection: Selecting Refuge 

Areas in Buildings (Second Edition) 72 n 8 1

FEMA 439A 

CD

Blast Resistance Benefits of Seismic 

Design: Phase 1 Study 40 n >

FEMA 439B Blast Resistance Benefits of Seismic 

Design: Phase 2 Study 40 n 8 1

FEMA 440 

and 440 CD

Improvement of Nonlinear Static Seismic 

Analysis Procedures 35 n 8 > 1

FEMA 

P-440A

Effects of Strength and Stiffness 

Degradation on Seismic Response 34 n 8 1

FEMA 445

Next-Generation Performance-Based 

Seismic Design Guidelines: Program Plan 

for New and Existing Buildings

35 n 8 1

FEMA 454 

CD

Designing for Earthquakes: A Manual for 

Architects 29 n 8 >

FEMA 460

Seismic Considerations for Steel Storage 

Racks Located in Areas Accessible to 

the Public

30 n 8 1
113

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FEMA 461

Interim Testing Protocols for Determining 

the Seismic Performance Characteristics 

of Structural and Nonstructural 

Components

34 n 8 1

FEMA 474 Promoting Seismic Safety: Guidance for 

Advocates 13 n 8 1

FEMA 488

Hurricane Charley in Florida: 

Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

80 n n 8 1

FEMA 489

Hurricane Ivan in Alabama and Florida: 

Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

79 n n 8 > 1

FEMA 490 Summary Report on Building 

Performance 2004 Hurricane Season 80 n n 8 1

FEMA 497 National Flood Mitigation Data Collection 

Tool and RLP Viewer - User’s Guide 50 n 8

FEMA P-499

Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal 

Construction, Technical Fact Sheet 

Series (37 Fact Sheets)

61 n n 8 > 1

FEMA B-526 Earthquake Safety Checklist 3, 5 n 8 1

FEMA 527 Earthquake Safety Activities for Children 

and Teachers 6, 8 n 8 1

FEMA V-528 Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt Poster 3 n 8 1

FEMA 529 Drop, Cover and Hold On Poster 8 n 8 1

FEMA 531 The Adventures of Terry the Turtle and 

Gracie the Wonder Dog, Grades 3-6 6 n 8 1

FEMA 543

Design Guide for Improving Critical 

Facility Safety from Flooding and High 

Winds

89 n n 8

FEMA 547 

and 547 CD

Techniques for the Seismic Rehabilitation 

of Existing Buildings 21 n 8 > 1

FEMA 548 Summary Report on Building 

Performance: Hurricane Katrina 2005 79 n n 8 1
114 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

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SNOW FORMAT

FEMA 549

Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Coast: 

Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance

78 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-550

Recommended Residential Construction 

in Coastal Areas: Building on Strong and 

Safe Foundations (Second Edition)

62 n n 8 > 1

FEMA 551 Selecting Appropriate Mitigation 

Measures for Floodprone Structures 49 n 8

FEMA 577

Design Guide for Improving Hospital 

Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and High 

Winds

89 n n n 8 1

FEMA P-593 

CD

Seismic Rehabilitation Training for Oneand Two-Family Dwellings: Program and 

Slide Presentations

16, 20 n 8 >

FEMA P-646 Guidelines for Design of Structures for 

the Vertical Evacuation from Tsunamis 39 n 8 1

FEMA 

P-646A

Vertical Evacuation from Tsunamis: A 

Guide for Community Officials 12 n 8 1

FEMA P-695 

and P-695 

CD

Quantification of Building Seismic 

Performance Factors 28 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-710 

CD

Earthquake Publications for Teachers 

and Kids 6 n 8 >

FEMA P-711 

CD

Earthquake Publications for Individuals 

and Homeowners 4 n >

FEMA P-712 

CD

Earthquake Publications for Community 

Planners and Public Policy Makers 12 n 8 >

FEMA P-737

Home Builder’s Guide to Construction 

in Wildfire Zones Technical Fact Sheet 

Series (17 Fact Sheets)

93 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-749 

Earthquake Resistant Design Concepts: 

An Introduction to the NEHRP Seismic 

Provisions

11, 28 n 8 1

FEMA P-750 

and P-750 

CD

NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions for New Buildings and Other 

Structures: 2009 Edition

28 n 8 > 1
115

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FEMA P-751 

CD

2009 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: Design Examples 27 n 8 >

FEMA P-752 

CD

NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: for New Buildings and Other 

Structures: Training and Instructional 

Materials

26 n 8 >

FEMA P-753 

DVD

2009 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: for New Buildings and Other 

Structures: A Compendium

26 n >

FEMA P-754 Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Handbook for 

Public Facilities 93 n 8

FEMA P-757

Hurricane Ike in Texas and Louisiana: 

Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance

78 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-758 Substantial Improvement/Substantial 

Damage Desk Reference 48 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-762 Local Officials Guide for Coastal 

Construction 49 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-765

Midwest Floods of 2008 in Iowa and 

Wisconsin: Building Performance 

Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance 

63 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-767 

CD Earthquake Mitigation for Hospitals 20 n 8 >

FEMA P-774 

and P-774 CD

Unreinforced Masonry Buildings and 

Earthquakes: Developing Successful Risk 

Reduction Programs

12, 20 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-784 The FEMA Substantial Damage Estimator 

(SDE) 49 n 8

FEMA P-795 

and P-795 CD 

Quantification of Building Seismic 

Performance Factors: Component 

Equivalency Methodology

27 n 8 > 1

FEMA B-797 Hazard Mitigation Field Book: Roadways 48 n 8

FEMA P-798 Natural Hazards and Sustainability for 

Residential Buildings 86 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-804 Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential 

Buildings 65, 72 n 8 > 1
116 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

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FEMA P-807

Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of MultiUnit Wood-Frame Buildings with Weak 

First Stories 

19 n 8 1

FEMA P-811 

DVD

Earthquake Publications for Businesses: 

QuakeSmart Toolkit 10 n 8 >

FEMA P-905

Mitigation Assessment Team and 

Building Performance Assessment Team 

Reports

75 n n >

FEMA P-907 Risk Management Series: Multi-Hazard 88 n n n >

FEMA P-908 Spring Tornadoes: April 25-28 and May 22 77 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-909 

CD

Home and Business Earthquake Safety 

and Mitigation 9 n 8 >

FEMA P-936 Floodproofing Non-Residential Buildings 44, 60 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-938

Hurricane Isaac in Louisiana: 

Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance

76 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-940 

CD

Multi-Hazard Mitigation and Design 

Concepts: Wind, Flood, and Earthquake 

Training Videos

83 n n n 8 >

FEMA P-942

Hurricane Sandy in New Jersey and 

New York: Building Performance 

Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

75 n n 8 > 1

FEMA P-950 

CD FEMA Building Science Toolkit CD 46, 86 n n n n >

FEMA P-957 Snow Load Safety Guide 92 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-1019

Emergency Power Systems for Critical 

Facilities: A Best Practices Approach to 

Improving Reliability

88 n n n 8 1

FEMA P-1020

Formal Observation Report – Oklahoma, 

May 20, 2013 Safe Room Performance, 

Observations, and Conclusions

75 n 8
117

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FEMA P-1024

Performance Assessment of Buildings 

and Nonstructural Components in the 

2014 South Napa Earthquake

17 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-1026

Seismic Design of Rigid Wall-Flexible 

Diaphragm Buildings An Alternate 

Design Procedure

17 n 8 > 1

FEMA P-1037 Reducing Flood Risk to Residential 

Buildings That Cannot be Elevated 41 n 8

FEMA P-1050

DVD

FEMA P-1050 DVD, 2015 NEHRP 

Recommended Seismic Provisions and 

Additional Resources

24 n 8 >

FEMA P-1050

2015 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions for New Buildings and Other 

Structures

25 n 8 1

FEMA P-1051 

CD

2015 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: Design Examples 25 n 8 >

FEMA P-1052

CD

2015 NEHRP Recommended Seismic 

Provisions: Training Materials 26 n 8 >

Recovery Advisories

Hurricane Charley Recovery Advisories 

(2004) 80 n 8

Hurricane Ivan Recovery Advisories 

(2004) 79 n n 8

Hurricane Katrina Recovery Advisories 

(2005) 79 n n 8

Hurricane Ike Recovery Advisories (2009) 78 n n 8

2008 Midwest Floods Recovery 

Advisories 63 n 8

2011 Tornado Recovery Advisories 

in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, 

Tennessee, and Missouri 

77 n 8

Hurricane Isaac Recovery Advisories 

(2012) 77 n n 8

Hurricane Sandy Recovery Advisories 

(2013) 76 n n 8
118 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

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Technical Bulletins

FEMA TB-0 User’s Guide to NFIP Technical Bulletins 44, 57 n 8 1

FEMA TB-1 Openings in Foundation Walls and Walls 

of Enclosures 57 n 8 1

FEMA TB-2 Flood Damage-Resistant Materials 

Requirements 57 n 8 1

FIA TB-3 Non-Residential Floodproofing – 

Requirements and Certification 57 n 8 1

FEMA TB-4 Elevator Installation 58 n 8 1

FEMA TB-5 Free-of-Obstruction Requirements 58 n 8 1

FIA TB-6 Below-Grade Parking Requirements 58 n 8 1

FIA TB-7 Wet Floodproofing Requirements 58 n 8 1

FIA TB-8 Corrosion Protection for Metal 

Connectors in Coastal Areas 58 n 8 1

FEMA TB-9

Design and Construction Guidance 

for Breakaway Walls Below Elevated 

Coastal Buildings

59 n 8 1

FIA TB-10

Ensuring That Structures Built on Fill In 

or Near Special Flood Hazard Areas Are 

Reasonably Safe From Flooding 

59 n 8 1

FIA TB-11 Crawlspace Construction for Buildings 

Located in Special Flood Hazard Areas 59 n 8 1

Brochure

FEMA L-233

Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building 

a Safe Room for Your Home or Small 

Business

67 n 8 1

FEMA L-780 Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Wind Hazard Publications 70 n 8 1

FEMA L-781

Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Hurricane Hazard 

Publications

71 n n 8 1

FEMA L-782 Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Flood Hazard Publications 48 n 8 1
119

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Protect Your Property or Business From Disaster Series

Protect Your Business From All Natural 

Hazards 85 n n n n 8

Protect Your Property From Flooding 42, 44 n 8

Protect Your Property From High Winds 65, 69 n 8

Protect Your Property From Fire 94 n 8

Fact Sheets and Flyers

ABCs of Returning to Flooded Buildings 42 n 8

Community Safe Room Fact Sheet 70 n 8

FEMA Snow Load Safety Guidance Fact 

Sheet 92 n 8

Flood Hazard Elevation and Siting Criteria 

for Community Safe Rooms 73 n n 8

Flood Hazard Elevation and Siting Criteria 

for Residential Safe Rooms 67, 74 n n 8

Foundation and Anchoring Criteria for 

Safe Rooms Fact Sheet 66, 73 n 8

Hurricane Sandy Fact Sheet 1, Cleaning 

Flooded Buildings 76 n 8

Hurricane Sandy Fact Sheet 2, 

Foundation Requirements and 

Recommendations for Elevated Homes

76 n 8

Hurricane Sandy Fact Sheet 3, Building 

Science Support and Code Changes 

Aiding Sandy Recovery

76 n n 8

Hurricane Sandy Issue Paper - Guidance 

for Turning the Power Back On 42 n n 8

Residential Safe Room Fact Sheet 66 n 8

Residential Tornado Safe Room Doors 

Fact Sheet 68 n 8

Rebuilding After a Wildfire Fact Sheet 93 n 8
120 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

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Other

Best Practices for Incorporating Building 

Science Guidance into Community Risk 

MAP Implementation

47 n 8

Building Codes Toolkit 83 n n n n 8

CodeMaster for Flood Resistant Design 52 n 1

Evaluation of NFIP Program’s Building 

Standards (October 2006) and 

Supplement (2008)

56 n 8

Flood Hazard Mitigation Handbook for 

Public Facilities 49 n 8

Flood Provisions of the International 

Code Series: Higher Standards 54 n 8

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2015 

Uniform Codes by the International 

Association of Plumbing and Mechanical 

Officers

51 n 8

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2015 

International Codes 51 n 8

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2012 

International Codes 55 n 8

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2012 

Uniform Codes by the International 

Association of Plumbing and Mechanical 

Officers (IAPMO)

55 n 8

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2009 

International Codes 56 n 8

Guidance for Applying ASCE 24 

Engineering Standards to HMA Flood 

Retrofitting and Reconstruction Projects

46, 53 n 8

Highlights of ASCE 24, Flood Resistant 

Design and Construction 52 n 8

Highlights of ICC 500-2014, ICC/

NSSA Standard for the Design and 

Construction of Storm Shelters

73 n 8

Hurricane Mitigation: A Handbook for 

Public Facilities 71 n n 8

Including Building Codes in the National 

Flood Insurance Program 54 n 8
121

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NFIP 2015 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Checklist 51 n 8

NFIP 2012 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Checklist 54 n 8

NFIP 2009 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Checklist 54 n 8

Provisions of the 2009 I-Codes and ASCE 

24 Compared to the NFIP 56 n 8

Quick Reference Guide: Comparison 

of Select NFIP and Building Code 

Requirements for Special Flood Hazard 

Areas

55 n 8

Recommended Procedures for Flood 

Velocity Development 47 n 8

Reducing Flood Losses Through the 

International Codes (Fourth Edition) 53 n 8
122 Building Science Branch Publications and Training Courses

FEMA P-787

Catalog No: 10076-1