Physical seismic vulnerability assessment of neighborhood emphasizing on critical land uses

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify the vulnerable factors in the neighborhood and vulnerability assessment of residential, medical center, school buildings, the road networks and the green spaces as vital and critical land uses to get general estimation of the situation for risk reduction planning. Design/methodology/approach Seismic vulnerability assessment of buildings was performed using the rapid visual screening data collection form of FEMA P 154 (2015). The assessment of the road was carried out using an empirical model, and the condition of the green spaces was assessed complying with standards using GIS. Findings The results of research indicated that about 37 percent of selected residential buildings, 81.08 percent of schools and two health care centers are likely to be vulnerable to earthquake. Originality/value Based on the results of this study, many of the structures should be further evaluated. Strengthening of poor-resistant elements of the roads is recommended and must be in order. Although the green spaces are well distributed in the neighborhood, they are ill-equipped of necessary facilities and their development is also recommended.