Disaster-resilient buildings stand as a symbol of human strength, as they rise beyond all the natural disasters worldwide. These buildings are specifically designed to withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, cyclones, floods, tsunamis, and other catastrophic events.
They ensure not only the security of physical spaces, but also the lives of countless cities and communities. This short exploration of disaster-resilient buildings delves into the fundamental structures behind these infrastructures, illuminating the crucial role they play in protecting communities from disasters and their aftermath.
How are disaster-resilient buildings built?
Structural design
Engineers design these structures with a strong foundation to withstand seismic forces of earthquakes or strong winds in hurricane-prone areas.
Materials
The materials that are used in construction are often highly-resistant to disasters. For example, reinforced steel and concrete are used for earthquake-prone areas, whereas impact-resistant glass is used for hurricane-prone areas. Innovative materials such as fiber-reinforced composites offer enhanced strength and flexibility.
Building codes
A building code is a set of rules that state the standards for buildings and other structures, which are usually very crucial for the construction of a disaster-resilient building. They are often specific to the region.
Seismic considerations
Buildings in areas prone to hurricanes are designed to resist high wind forces. These can be done through the construction of aerodynamic shapes, reinforced walls, and impact-resistant windows.
Emergency Evacuation planning
Staircases, emergency exits and refuge areas are constructed within a disaster-resilient building to promote the safety of the residents.
Communication Systems
The disaster-resilient buildings have good communication systems to ensure proper warnings and emergency information.
Community Planning
Incorporate community-wide planning and zoning regulations to ensure strong buildings that resists disasters. This includes establishment of safe zones, buffer zones, and evacuation routes.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspection protocols are made to ensure that the building remains in a resilient condition over time.
How do disaster-resilient buildings work?
Disaster-resilient buildings work by providing a safe space for its residents to protect themselves from a disaster and its aftermath. Due to their reinforced walls, buildings are very rigid unlike non-resilient buildings. These structures are less prone to the detrimental impacts of natural disasters.
Disaster-resilient buildings are found in areas that are more susceptible to natural disasters, such as the ancient Greek architecture of the Temple of Artemis, as well as in the ancient Roman architecture of Pantheon. The Himeji Castle in ancient Japan and the Machu Picchu are also constructed with the technology of disaster-resilient buildings.
Temple of Artemis
Pantheon
Conclusion
Disaster-resilient buildings have been implemented since ancient civilisations and have proved to be useful in various eras and regions. The ability to withstand disasters can significantly mitigate negative impacts and its aftermath and should be a key feature in architecture. Most buildings and structures have withstood countless disasters and protected humankind!
Works Cited
Bjorgen, D. (2006). File:Jerash Temple of Artemis.jpg. [online] commons.wikimedia.org. Available at: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Jerash_Temple_of_Artemis.jpg [Accessed 14 Feb. 2024].
How Stuff Works (2011). How Earthquake-resistant Buildings Work. [online] HowStuffWorks. Available at: https://science.howstuffworks.com/engineering/structural/earthquake-resistant-buildings.htm.
Wallpaper Flare. (n.d.). HD wallpaper: italy, roma, piazza della rotonda, morning, ancient, pantheon | Wallpaper Flare. [online] Available at: https://www.wallpaperflare.com/italy-roma-piazza-della-rotonda-morning-ancient-pantheon-wallpaper-elern [Accessed 14 Feb. 2024].
Wikipedia. (2021). Resilience (engineering and construction). [online] Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Resilience_(engineering_and_construction).
Wikipedia. (2024). Pantheon. [online] Available at: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantheon.
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