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Seismic Risk Evaluations
(Probable Maximum Loss)
EDI is well known for its expertise in evaluating earthquake
risks to facilities. Information generated from a risk
assessment is used to assist clients in developing long-term
risk reduction strategies. These strategies involve the upgrade
and rehabilitation of existing buildings and equipment,
development of improved operating procedures, transferring the
risk through insurance, and / or improved emergency response and
business recovery plans.
Our three-phased approach (risk audit, quantification and
implementation) helps to reduce and manage the risk to
facilities in a practical and cost-effective manner, while
addressing customer needs.
The approach is logical and practical and considers important
aspects, including damage to structures, equipment and
inventory, business interruption costs, and personnel safety.
PHASE I - The Seismic Risk Survey
EDI engineers survey, evaluate, and inventory critical
structures and/or equipment systems. The scope of work entails
review of available structural drawings, soil reports,
seismological data, and performing site visits.
Structural/seismic deficiencies are discussed and general
recommendations provided to mitigate the seismic risk. This
Phase I seismic risk audit also provides information regarding
projected facility damage and downtime and business interruption
costs following a major earthquake.
PHASE II - Seismic Risk Identification and Evaluation
Detailed specific seismic risks associated with selected
facilities and equipment systems are identified. The scope of
work consists of systematic and detailed analyses of the
capabilities of structures and equipment, and includes
development of preliminary strengthening concepts, and
cost/benefit assessments for retrofit design and construction.
At this stage EDI may propose several different retrofit
schemes, based upon different levels of required facility
performance. These may vary from life-safety for cost-conscious
clients, to minimizing business interruption for high-value
production or essential service facilities. We may also
recommend non-structural solutions such as enhanced emergency
preparedness and response planning, occupancy changes,
transferring the risk through insurance, or other strategies.
PHASE III - Selection and Implementation of the Risk
Reduction Program
The preferred strategy for risk reduction is finalized. This
may entail finishing conceptual strengthening designs and
project criteria initiated during Phase II, and developing
complete construction documents (drawings and specifications) to
implement seismic retrofit measures. Typically this phase
includes close coordination of work with other disciplines (such
as architectural, mechanical, and electrical) required to
implement the recommended facility upgrade measures. In other
instances, this phase may involve preparation or enhancement of
a disaster preparedness and recovery plan and training a
client’s staff in implementing the plan; or it may involve other
aspects of facility planning such as development of risk-averse
design criteria for new construction.
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