Is your building Earthquake proof

The recent earthquake has highlighted the topic of earthquake resistant buildings and structures. To be frank their
is not any real science which can save your from natural disasters as you don’t know how nature will attack you.
Just imagine your building might be earthquake proof but it may get damaged because of other building falling on it.
There is no end to optimistic or pessimistic thinking. Lets talk logically and practically, there are several common
and best methods to find out if you really need to leave the house or building because it is not meeting the
standard guidelines of earthquake resistant structure.
Check out the construction History
If your building is having RCC pillars and Bands to support the whole structure with no room having more than 5
meter wall, you are probably living in a earthquake resistant structure which may not collapse. Those building which
are having RCC Bands but no pillars may also survive the earthquake but most likely suffer irreparable damages
depending upon the severity of buildings. Those people who are living in houses without band and pillars in
earthquake prone area they are probably risking their life.
Check out the quality of soil
Soil texture matters a lot and even the best constructed building may not survive the earthquake if the soil is not
okay. Check out the matter with the expert Geologist. Places where water level is extremely shallow and near the
surface are always in danger. Better avoid living in multi storyed buildings in these areas.
Ground Floor Structure
Nowadays, it is very common in North India to have buildings which give space for large hall like structures in the
ground and 1st floor for parking or showroom. This is a very dangerous trend and it can result in total collapse of
the building in earthquake. These buildings must be thoroughly checked by the concerned government department.
Vibration Check
Do you get the uncomfortable vibrations in the floor of your building when a vehicle passes on the nearby road, most
likely the quality of cement is extremely poor in your building or their is damage in the base. It can be anything
but its not good. Better consult the experts and get it repaired before it is too late.
Unreasonable Leaking of Water
Stagnation of water for a long time can cause leakage but if the leakage is too fast and too furious even in case of
simple water stagnation, it only indicates the fact that the building is not in right shape and structure.