Performance Based Seismic Engineering Design

The Performance Based Seismic Engineering Design 12 hour PDH online course is a part of the Structural category courses. This course provides guidance on important new concepts in performance-based seismic design and new knowledge about the seismic hazard facing the United States. It also describes a variety of concepts for reducing seismic risk, including the means to reduce economic losses that are not related to engineering solutions.

The course provides illustrative examples and graphical tools that can be used by the design engineer to more effectively explain concepts of seismic risk management and building performance improvements and to establish a means by which seismic engineering and financial risk management can be integrated to form a holistic seismic risk management plan. The overarching goal of the course is to provide a means to facilitate communications between building owners/managers and design professionals on the important issues affecting seismic risk decision making during the design and construction of new facilities, as well as the operational phase.

This course is based on FEMA Risk Management Series document No. 389 “Primer for Design Professionals: Communicating with Owners and Managers of New Buildings on Earthquake Risk”.

This course is intended for use by civil and structural engineers, design and construction professionals, students and others interested in learning about performance based seismic design.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to explain and will gain the following knowledge and skills:

• Identify and assess earthquake related hazards
• Explain the emerging concept of performance-based engineering in seismic design
• Describe how to improve performance and reduce seismic risk
• Discuss the design and performance issues related to:
  • Commercial office buildings
  • Retail commercial facilities
  • Light manufacturing facilities
  • Healthcare facilities
  • Local K-12 schools
  • Higher education facilities
• Explain responsibilities for seismic consideration within the design team