This is a practical introduction to the issues and problems encountered in designing buildings which can withstand the forces of natural disasters. The text includes important updates from the 1994 Universal Building Code as well as more detailed information on engineering computations and lateral force construction. Increased attention is given to the relationship between building design and seismic response, and a discussion of the most recent CAD products for lateral design work is discussed.

This accessible guide to seismic design examines what earthquakes do to buildings and what can be done to improve building response to earthquakes. International examples and photographs are included as important learning aids in understanding the effects of earthquakes on structures.