Topic outline

  • Strengthening School Buildings - Against Earthquake Damage

    Credits: 6 PDH

    Course Description:

    This course outlines the earthquake risk to schools and the processes and methods that can be used to reduce it. An explanation of the nature and probability of earthquakes is provided, together with procedures for determining the earthquake threat to specific locations and for evaluating the vulnerability of a school building. An assessment of the scope and effectiveness of seismic building codes is followed by a description of current methods of designing for seismic resistance in new buildings and upgrading existing buildings. Lastly, the course presents guidance for school districts, facility planners, and designers on determining acceptable risk and the use of performance- based design.

    Topics:

    • Nature and probability of earthquakes
    • Vulnerability of schools
    • Earthquake damage to schools
    • Seismic codes and schools
    • Effectiveness of seismic codes
    • Evaluating existing schools for seismic risk and specific risk reduction methods
    • Risk reduction for new schools
    • Risk reduction for existing schools
    • The school as a post-earthquake shelter

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended primarily for structural, civil, mechanical and construction engineers, and would also be of particular interest to engineers serving as consultants to school officials involved in the technical and financial decisions of school construction, repair, and renovations
    Publication Source: This course is based on Chapter 4, “Making Schools Safe From Earthquakes,” of “Design Guide for Improving School Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and High Winds.” FEMA P-424, December, 2010.


    Mark Rossow PhD, PE (retired)

    • Topic 1