34.2.2. Design Basis Earthquake (DBE)

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define what Design Basis Earthquake (DBE) means.

   Hint

   Think about the operational capacity of a building after an earthquake.

2. 2.

   What does MCE stand for?

   Hint

   Consider the worst-case seismic scenario.

3. 3.

   What does DBE stand for?

   • Design Basis Event
   • Design Basis Earthquake
   • Design Building Effort

   Hint

   Think about what we are designing against.

4. 4.

   The DBE is linked to what probability of exceedance over 50 years?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the numerical values associated with DBE.

5. 5.

   A city has updated its seismic standards. Current DBE is calculated as 1/2 of the MCE. How would changing that ratio to 2/3 impact building designs?

   Hint

   Think about quantity and structure strength.

6. 6.

   If a school building in a seismic zone is designed with a lower importance factor than a hospital, what consequences might arise?

   Hint

   Consider the types of emergency services provided.