Functional Recovery in the Context of Post-Earthquake Reconnaissance: Challenges and Opportunities

Published

June 30, 2024

Author(s)

Matthew Speicher, Mohammadamin Hariri Ardebili, Siamak Sattar

Abstract

Earthquake reconnaissance trips have become the norm following major seismic events. Traditional approaches to data collection involve gathering photographs, structural measurements, and notes on qualitative damage. While these traditional activities remain essential, the focus on functionality during reconnaissance has been limited. However, the importance of functional recovery has gained recognition, as it is crucial to preserve the health and vibrancy of the community once life safety measures are ensured. Functional recovery, as defined by a report by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), encompasses the readiness of a building to support its basic intended function associated with the pre-earthquake use or occupancy. Existing research on functional recovery has primarily aimed to define the concept, metrics, design requirement, and identify factors influencing post-earthquake building function and recovery. Some studies have attempted to quantify functional recovery for individual buildings, considering shaking intensity, building response, component damage, and other relevant factors. This paper presents observations from an effort to collect functional recovery information approximately 2 months after the devastating February 2023 Turkey earthquake sequence. It provides a discussion of the challenges encountered and opportunities to overcome these challenges. Observations from a hospital and school are discussed in more detail. By documenting this experience, it is hoped that future activities in collecting functional recovery data will be improved.

Proceedings Title

Proceedings of the 18th World Conference on Earthquake Engineering

Conference Dates

June 30-July 5, 2024

Conference Location

Milan, IT

Conference Title

18th World Conference on Earthquake Engineering

Pub Type

Conferences

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Keywords

seismic, functional recovery, reconnaissance, disaster, building

Citation

Speicher, M. , Hariri Ardebili, M. and Sattar, S. (2024), Functional Recovery in the Context of Post-Earthquake Reconnaissance: Challenges and Opportunities, Proceedings of the 18th World Conference on Earthquake Engineering, Milan, IT, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=956964 (Accessed April 19, 2025)