The Whittier Narrows, California Earthquake of October 1, 1987—Ticor Title Insurance Building Damage

Abstract

The Ticor Title Insurance Building was a recently designed building that was significantly damaged by the recent October 1, 1987 Whittier Narrows Earthquake. The building experienced shear wall failures, floor and roof diaphragm failures, as well as failures of spandrel panel anchorages. The damage is chronicled by photographs in this article. This building, which is constructed chiefly of precast elements, shows the importance of tying together adequately different parts of a building. Special attention to building configuration, building deflection, connection and anchorage details is recommended.