Nonstructural Seismic Design

CCS Group strives to raise awareness of potential nonstructural risks, explain the costly consequences of nonstructural failures, and identify opportunities for clients to limit future loss through mitigation as nonstructural component failures have accounted for the majority of earthquake damage in recent US earthquakes.    ​

What is a nonstructural component?

Nonstructural components include everything in the building that is not part of the structural system.  This includes architectural elements, mechanical and electrical components, and major interior furnishings.  
Architectural Elements
  • Ceilings and Light Fixtures
  • Cladding and Glazing
  • Parapets and Chimneys
  • Partition Walls
  • Storage Racks
  • ​​Raised Access Floors
Mechanical & Electrical Components
  • HVAC Units, Boilers & Furnaces
  • Emergency Generators & UPS
  • Pumps and Chillers
  • Transformers & Switchboards
  • ​Piping, Conduit and Ductwork
  • Elevators and Escalators

Why care about nonstructural components?

Loss of Life, Property & Revenue
Failure of nonstructural components is a major source of loss following an earthquake.
  • Loss of life due to falling debris
  • Direct physical assess damage
  • Collateral damage such as fire resulting from gas-fired equipment / pipe failure
  • Loss of revenue due to extended business interruption
Code Compliance
Since the adoption of the International Building Code, many local jurisdictions require seismic design for nonstructural components by a licensed professional engineer.
The correct application of the code requirements ensure Life Safety performance and a high probability of post-earthquake operability for essential facilities is achieved.