| dc.description.abstract | Loss of life and property as a result of earthquakes can be significantly reduced through appropriate design and construction of structures on relatively safe sites. Structural-seismic factors, topographic factors, and lithologic factors should all be evaluated by a geologist and an engineer in the site selection process. Active faults, landslides, and poorly consolidated soils must be avoided as building sites. In developing countries, geologists and engineers are not always available for site selection, especially during post-disaster reconstruction. Paraprofessionals, trained by a knowledgeable instructor, may employ specific criteria designed to avoid major problem areas when professional geologists and engineers are not available for site selection. Although the selected sites may have deficiencies, a carefully employed site selection process should significantly reduce earthquake losses. | en |
