6.3.2 Summary Complete the following tables to summarise the positives and negatives of each technology outlined. 1. Building codes: Earthquakes Advantages Limitations Base isolation - Rubber pads at the base of the building isolate the building from ground seismic activity and absorb seismic energy Tuned mass dampers - Pendulum like devices that swing against the buildings sway, stabilising the structure and reducing the sway by up to 40% Sheer walls - Reduce collapse risk and casualties by reinforcing building support against seismic forces Base isolation - Best suited for hard soil and not recommended for all building types. Tuned mass dampers - Requires a large space, and accurate tuning to the buildings frequency which is difficult to achieve with high accuracy Sheer walls - Retrofitting existing walls is difficult - Private residences may not comply with building codes 2. Building codes: Volcanoes Advantages Zoning regulations - allows informed decisions to be made about the location of structures in volcanic regions. This minimises the likelihood of volcanic eruptions causing death and injury. Angled roofs allow accumulating ash fall to slide off the roof, reducing the risk of roof collapse. 3. Disaster Warning systems: Earthquakes Limitations - - - Population size and urban and economic development may restrict the implementation of zoning. Difficult to implement zoning to preexisting settlements. Angled roofs are not guaranteed to prevent collapse or damage to infrastructure. High density ash, combined with rainfall or snow, can still impact angled roofs. Advantages Shake Alerts - Alerts can be sent via SMS. If a mass SMS is sent to people who are affected by the earthquake, people can be better prepared to go to shelters or evacuate if needed so there are fewer injuries. Limitations - This can only work if there is a good network coverage and if people check their phones so that everyone is warned in time. 4. Disaster Warning systems: Volcanoes Advantages Colour coded Alerts - DWS for volcanoes generally use colour codes to notify the public on the threat levels posed by an eminent eruption. Limitations - DWS assume that people are checking codes or electronic alerts during this time. 5. Education: Earthquakes Advantages Tokyo Earthquake education - Education on how to respond during an earthquake has been incorporated into school programs as early as primary school. Limitations - Individuals need to be responsive to these educational lessons on earthquakes and implement what they learn. 6. Education: Volcanoes Advantages USGS (U.S. Gelogical Survey) and Oregon University Programs - The USGS runs a volcano Hazard program in high risk communities. They engage the public and officials about volcanic impacts, disasters preparedness and safety. Limitations - Individuals need to be responsive to these educational lessons on volcanoes and implement what they learn.
