Their efforts have lead to the continuous improvement of the seismic requirements in the model building codes. For instance, if an earthquake strikes and the building's occupants are able to exit safely, in spite of the fact that the building may be a total loss, the design was successful according to the model building codes. New developments in seismic design allow engineers to design buildings to various performance levels. As performance based design becomes accepted, the model building codes will need to consider additional criteria that limit the amount of seismic damage to buildings. IBHS is taking the lead in developing these methods.
Soil investigations are necessary to evaluate hazards due to potential earthquake motion.
Slope instability, liquefaction, and surface rupture due to faulting or lateral spreading must be taken into consideration. IBHS encourages the development of new and improved site preparation techniques for incorporation into the model building codes. By requiring the reinforcement of new masonry construction, the walls will be able to withstand higher lateral loads, thus reducing the possibility of failure in an earthquake. IBHS advocates reinforcing all new masonry construction. By applying structural sheathing to the inside of cripple walls, the possibility of failure is reduced.