National Council of Architectural Registration Boards Publishes Sixth Monograph

NCARB's latest monograph, Seismic Mitigation, illustrates what architects can do to reduce the effects of earthquakes, both in terms of injury to occupants and significant damage to buildings. Although informed design can be supported by current research, it is most convincingly influenced by observations of actual building performance in disastrous earthquakes. Therefore, to demonstrate concepts, two presentations are developed in tandem throughout the monograph that utilize actual events. The first is a basic primer on individual concerns that have the potential to modify the usual approach to design; that is, design done largely in the absence of informed concern for earthquakes. The second presentation consists of the examination (in the form of a running critique) of a set of buildings that represent a range of common design situations.

Topics covered in Seismic Mitigation, include: "Earthquakes and Their Effects," "Seismic Vulnerability of Buildings and Sites," "Design for Better Seismic Response," "Improving on Existing Construction," "Mitigation of Seismic Forces," "Managing Design and Construction," and "Design Resources."

The author, James Ambrose, is an architect and structural engineer and has authored, co-authored, contributed or edited more than 60 publications on architectural technology. During his 34-year teaching career, he has served on the faculties of architecture schools at the Universities of Illinois, Wisconsin, and Southern California.

Seismic Mitigation is a part of NCARB's Professional Development Program that began in 1993 to address the increasing need for continuing education and education verification. Other NCARB monograph titles include: Subsurface Conditions, Indoor Environment, Fire Safety in Buildings, Energy Conscious Architecture, and Wind Forces. NCARB's monograph series allows architects to conveniently demonstrate ongoing learning in order to renew their professional registration. All U.S.jurisdictions accept NCARB Professional Development Program monographs for compliance with state continuing education requirements.

The successful completion of the Seismic Mitigation quiz equals 10 contact hours or 30 AIA Learning Units. The regular price for this monograph is $95; NCARB Record Holders can purchase Seismic Mitigation for $75. To order, or for more information about this title, or any other title in NCARB's Professional Development Program, contact David Brown at 202-783-6500. Or visit NCARB's web site at www.ncarb.org.