Topic outline

  • Coastal Construction: Predesign Considerations

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course provides an overview of the issues that should be considered before the building is designed. Coastal development has increased in recent years, and some of the sites that are chosen for development have higher risks of impact from natural hazards than in the past. Examples of sites with higher risks are those that are close to the ocean, on high bluffs that are subject to erosion, and on artificial fill deposits.

    In addition, many of the residential buildings constructed today are larger and more costly than before, leading to the potential for larger economic losses if disaster strikes. Studies following major coastal disasters have consistently shown that coastal residential buildings that are properly sited, designed, and constructed have generally performed well during natural hazard events. Important decisions need to be made prior to designing the building. The decisions should be based on an understanding of regulatory requirements, the natural hazard and other risks associated with constructing a building on a particular site, and the financial implications of the decisions.

    Topics:

    • Design Process and Requirements
    • Determining the Natural Hazard Risk
    • Losses Due to Natural Hazards in Coastal Areas
    • Initial, Long-Term, and Operational Costs
    • Hazard, Earthquake, and Wind Insurance
    • Sustainable Design Considerations
    • Inspection Considerations

    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 for Construction, Civil, Environmental, Water Resources, and other engineers whose job description requires a comprehensive knowledge of coastal construction design procedures and principles.
    Publication Source: US FEMA

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1