Alex discusses the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan, covers the latest breaking news, and takes your calls. www.infowars.com
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It is very hard to make a condominium fully earthquake proof. In the very strongest earthquake, even the best engineered condominium will suffer severe damage. However, engineers do their best to make sure the condominiums will stand up long enough for the occupants to get out to safety.
The worst structure that accomplish poorly while an earthquake are made of poor quality masonry such as brick or concrete block. The walls are ordinarily made out of bricks stacked on one someone else other and are held with a mortar. The roof is made out of beams of wood laid over the top of the wall. The weight of the roof is carried level down through the wall of the foundations. When an earthquake occurs, this type of construction gets a sideways jolt, the walls tip over and crumble and the roof falls in on the occupants like a house of cards. Fortunately, the government in the Philippines takes the essential steps to make sure that the condominiums in the Philippines comply with the allowable construction codes to ensure the protection of the public.
As these structures get more complex, the task of making it more earthquake proof becomes harder. The harmonic characteristics of the construction and ground have to be considered. Even if the materials for the construction is of high quality, the structure of the construction may be weak.
Some countries take the construction code for granted. Countries like these regularly have a high death rate when tragedies such as an earthquake occur. Philippines has a law in which all structure should result exact guide lines that will ensure the protection of its occupants while earthquakes. Architects should ensure that their organize is earthquake proof before they are approved. There are discrete organizations in the Philippines that ensures the protection of the upcoming buildings.
Philippines being in the "Pacific Ring of Fire" experienced a lot of tectonic activity. Inspecting this, there has been no major fatalities because of earthquakes.Right now, there are a lot of infrastructures in the Philippines that can reach as high as thirty floors. Some even reach up to fifty. Being in an earthquake prone zone, these structures are built in such a way that they will withstand at least a magnitude 6 earthquake. The Philippines has not yet feel a magnitude 8 earthquake.
The Philippines has a lot of volcanoes. A volcanologist organize called Phivocs, studies the area around these volcanoes and offers recommendations for the protection of the structures around these areas. There are cases however, in which Phivocs revokes a permit of those infrastructures near volcanoes, as to because these places are more earthquake prone.
Engineers are discouraged to build their projects near mining areas. These places, even if most of them are not in fault lines, are still earthquake prone.Earthquakes from these areas are unnatural, they are man made.They are caused by large blast, heavy machinery and soil displacement.
The Philippine government takes all of this into notice when construction a condominium in the Philippines.
buildings That Are Safe while EarthquakesThe massively destructive earthquake that hit the impoverished island nation of Haiti earlier this month has dominated recent global news. Reams of newsprint and thousands of websites have been dedicated to chronicling recent and past misfortunes of this country, ranging from natural disasters to political upheavals.
The casual reader is left with the impression that Haiti is a country with a ruined economy, chronic unemployment, and extreme poverty. The media has not been slow to point out that Haiti is a country from which only bad news ever seems to come.
The name "Haiti" is derived from the language of the first inhabitants of the island, and means "mountainous country". Haiti is the world's oldest black republic and the second oldest republic in the western hemisphere, after the United States. As a failed state and a media whipping boy, the country has long played a dark shadow to the bright sunlight of the rest of the Caribbean. Recent optimism over Haiti's impending renaissance has been buried again under last month's earthquake.
Natural disasters have long had their part to play in the consistent destruction of Haiti. But the scale of destruction wreaked by these disasters cannot all be attributed to the disasters alone. Indiscriminate deforestation has had a major role to play. Being the poorest nation in the western hemisphere, oil has always been a commodity that Haiti could ill-afford.
Hence, charcoal from burnt trees has been the major source of energy. For decades, Haitians have relentlessly burnt and chopped down the lush forest cover of the island. This has meant that in times of storms and hurricanes, the rainwater rushes down unimpeded and the effects of destruction are greatly magnified.
A long history of political unrest and poverty means that the country is just not prepared to cope with disasters of this scale and magnitude. The most recent disaster has prompted yet another major international aid effort. Haiti is a country that is in serious need of help.
Haiti - A Summary of the Earthquake EventMagnitude of the Earthquake
The Haiti Earthquake was a 7.0 on the Richter logarithmic scale. There is no maximum size on the scale. In comparing the Haiti earthquake to those against history, the largest earthquake ever was in Chile with a 9.5 on the Richter scale. The most recent earthquake in San Francisco (1989 Loma Prieta) was also a 7.0 earthquake. The Resulting damage is more devastating in Haiti due to building style and the epicenter location.
How Many People Have Died
The death toll is, at this time, is unclear, but Haiti officials fear that there will be around 100,000 that will be killed from the earthquake. Some other officials estimate that the death toll will be in the 30-50 thousand range. This makes the Haiti Earthquake one of the most devastating in history.
According to the US Geological Survey, since 1990, there have been four earthquakes that have had death tolls over 50,000. The largest death toll, since 1990, was 227,898 off the west coast of Northern Sumatra. The Loma Prieta earthquake, in San Francisco (with similar magnitude), had a death toll of 63.
Haiti Building Styles Contribute to Death Toll
One of the least expensive ways to build a home is with concrete. And, the most likely way to die in an earthquake is from something heavy falling on you. Many of the buildings in Haiti are build of concrete. And, since the area is historically not earthquake prone, the buildings aren't built for the shaking. Many people have been trapped under concrete rubble.
Many volunteers are needed to go and find people that may be covered or trapped by building debris. It will take many days to go through all the building rubble.
Haiti Earthquake Epicenter
The epicenter of the Haiti Earthquake was only 6.2 miles deep and only 10 miles from the city of Port -Au- Prince. That may sound pretty deep, but as earthquakes go it is very shallow. Most earthquakes are thousands of miles deep and barely felt. The closer the earthquake is to the surface, the more damaging it will be. That means that two earthquakes with the same magnitude can have far different effects based on the epicenter and location in relation to the city.
The Cause of the Haiti Earthquake
The cause of the earthquake is the same as most earthquakes. The land masses are built on floating tectonic plates. In Haiti, the North American Plate and the Caribbean plates struck together along the
Enriquillo-Plantain Garden Fault System. The plates slip back and forth against each other in an east west direction. Seismologists call this a strike slip boundary. Some seismologists would call this a strike slip earthquake because the two plates are getting stuck or striking against each other and these plates would normally slip against each other at a rate of a few millimeters per year.
How to Help People in the Haiti Earthquake
Former president Bill Clinton says to give money to relief agencies. The reason is that sending supplies is difficult to do when the roads and infrastructure are broken. Sending supplies also requires a lot more manpower and logistical problems. Professional relief agencies like the Red Cross know what supplies are needed and where to get them quickly. What they need are funds to buy the supplies.
The United States and the World Bank have each contributed 100 million dollars to helping the people of Haiti. That is an impressive figure and the response to help these people has been swift.
Sadly, there are many relief agencies that pop up under these stressful times that are only scams. Please be careful and give support where the money will be used wisely. The people of Haiti need lots of support and help. Any donations to this cause will be greatly be appreciated by the victims. Many people need money to start a new life after losing everything.
How to Find People in the Haiti Earthquake
The most popular way to find people and stay in touch is through Facebook. Since telephone lines have been disrupted, survivors can go online and post to their families and friends that they are doing well. Facebook has been a real life saver during this crisis.
Another way to find people is to call the state department 1-888-407-4747. President Obama has encouraged Americans trying to locate family members to call this number.
Summary
Our heart and prayers go out to the people of Haiti. We hope that our aid reaches them quickly and that their pain can be minimized.
Haiti EarthquakeTesla's oscillator or "Earthquake machine" is a mechanical oscillator that was invented by Nikola Tesla in the year of 1898. the original oscillator that Tesla designed and tested was small , almost seven inches long , and it weighed about one or two pounds. This small device was designed to be powered by steam pressure, only five pounds of air pressure against a special pneumatic piston device was used to operate it.
The concept of Tesla oscillator is purely mechanical , basically it works by applying forced steam into the oscillator , as the steam exists through a series of ports it caused high speed vibrates in the oscillators armature within the casing . As the casing was very strong it was able to handle more than 200 degrees pressure heating in the upper chamber and more than 400psi of pressure. Other versions of Tesla's oscillator were designed and built to be used as an electrical power generator which was able to generate both direct and alternating currents.
In 1898 Tesla had a lab on Huston Street in New York. It was claimed that while Tesla was experimenting his mechanical oscillator he generated a resonance of several buildings near his house causing complaints to the police, as the oscillator speed increased he hit the resonance frequency of his own house. belatedly Tesla realized that he was in danger and has was forced to use a sledge hammer to breakdown the oscillator and stop the experiment , just as the shocked police arrived .
To examine Tesla's claims, the Discovery channel's Myth Busters show tested Tesla's oscillator in their 60th episode. They was aiming to test the mechanical resonance physical phenomenon, to they took the device to a bridge that was built to withstand such forces in today's standards. the test resulted in deflecting a single I-beam of steal several feet in each direction , and they reportedly felt that the bridges was shaking for many yards away , but they didn't have the "earth shattering " effect that Tesla described . However the buildings in Tesla's time where not designed to with stance such resonance and traffic bridges have a different and stronger structure than the houses do.
Tesla's Oscillator Or "Earthquake Machine"Recent Earthquakes in Japan, New Zealand, Chile are a reminder for us in California and other states at risk for the "Big One", that there are many decisions to be made very quickly in the first seconds of any disaster. Here are five tips that will improve your chances for survival.
1. Don't Run Outside- Every step you take you increase your odds of becoming injured by falling or flying debris. Glass imploding into a room is very dangerous for those still standing. The debris from collapsing buildings can fall one and one-half times the height of the building. Bricks become deadly at this point. Remember, you cannot out run an earthquake, and panic kills.
2. Drop, Cover and Hold-On- Taking cover immediately under sturdy furniture is like putting on a hard hat. The protection is immediate. Dropping to the ground also keeps you low to the ground to avoid flying glass that has imploded into the room. Do not get into doorways. Not only are they dangerous because of violently swinging doors, but doorways are actually the weakest part of the structure. Doorways are created by removing the integral part of the walls framing.
3. If You Do Become Trapped- Don't start yelling. Bad idea. All that yelling will cause you to choke and possibly suffocate on the debris dust, which is substantial following a collapse. This will also cause you to fatigue quickly at a time when you need to save your strength. Yelling will also cause you to dehydrate at a faster rate from the loss of moisture in your breath. Tapping 3 times periodically will save energy and can be detected by professional rescuers.
4. Rescue The Injured- Before you evacuate make sure to care for the injured you left behind. You should prioritize by stabilizing life threatening injuries only. It is easy to prioritize when you realize you can only die from one of three things. They are; Not Breathing, Severe Bleeding and Shock. If the victim is not breathing, you should perform a Head Tilt, Chin Lift maneuver and then place them in the Recovery Position, on their left side. Severe Bleeding can be controlled by applying a Pressure Bandage, and to manage Shock, simply raise their legs 6-12 inches.
5. Fires and Gas Leaks- To avoid losing your home to fire and becoming the start of a major conflagration in your neighborhood, you must immediately extinguish all small fires and check on gas leaks. For fires store an ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher in your home. To check for gas leaks remember, just because you don't smell gas, doesn't mean you don't have a gas leak in the walls or attic. So always check your gas meter to look for any of the dials turning on your gas meter. Store a gas shut off wrench at the meter for quick and immediate access.
Earthquake Preparedness and Survival - 5 Lifesaving TipsEarthquakes are a common occurrence throughout the World, but when a 6.5 magnitude quake struck Virginia, and spread to cause aftershocks across the East coast of America - Few experts could explain why? One theory is that "fracking" or the hydraulic fracturing of the earths crust may have been the cause.
Virginia, has never had a history of large Earthquakes in the last 10.000 years, and is an area which is away from the quake lines, which circle the world, but It is one state that has seen a huge growth of Fracking or the Hydraulic fracturing of our Earths crust- as energy companies seek more resources to fuel a gas and oil dependent economy
Fracking is a simple technique, a drill burrows deep into the earths crust, and a fluid is poured through the well head to crack the rocks, which form the foundation stones of our planet. Inside this foundation, oil, natural gas and water can be forced out, at a lower cost then other drilling methods. Currently over 90% of the natural gas used in the United States is through fracturing our planets foundation stone.
Internationally fracking is a less commonly used, because it causes environmental damage, the risk of earthquakes, and sinkholes. In the UK, fracking was stopped after the town of Blackpool experienced a minor quake, whilst in nuclear powered France- it was banned. This raises questions whether an unlikely earthquake, which cracked the ceiling of Washington's famous Washington Cathedral, was actually man- made rather than a 'natural disaster.'
The fact that a nation is willing to destroy its environment, and endanger millions of people because of a dependence on oil, and gas, shows that if this continues and further earthquakes occur, the cost of the damage of future earthquakes, could probably exceed the initial investment needed to build a society that runs completely on sustainable green energies.
Was the East coast earthquake a warning message, by mother earth for energy companies to stop damaging our planets foundation stone?
Did Fracking Cause the Recent Earthquake in the United Sates and Canada?In the year 2012 Scientists have not yet beyond doubt carefully whether an earthquake will destroy the earth. Not knowing when an earthquake strikes, a lot of population will get injured or even killed and properties will be damaged. The only thing we can do, if we live in an area near fault lines, is to be ready everyday for such eventualities.
2012 the things you should do to put in order for an earthquake disaster:
Preparedness for an crisis by having a disaster kit
In the event of the phenomenon of 2012 you will never know what will happen after a quake, thus, you should all the time have an crisis disaster kit for everyone in your household. Each kit must include at least one gallon of water, food contribute for at least three days (you should take not perishable food), and first aid kit.
For the year 2012 you should ensure that you normally turn the food and water in your crisis kit. The food and water in your kit will be of dinky use if they are already not fit to eat or drink. Instead of saving your life, such might even exacerbate your situation.
What to know about your mains utilities
Earthquakes might cause fires from gas leaks and electricity. Thus, it is leading that you know where the main switches of your utilities are so that you can turn them off when needed.
Inspect your asset for cracks and fissures
You must normally check the health of your asset to ensure that it can withstand even a strong earthquake. Be sure to have the cracks on your walls, chimney and even door frames fixed. If you live in an apartment, record cracks and fissures to your landlord immediately, so that he or she can do something about the situation.
Have an evacuation for a disaster plan
In any catastrophe event you and your family must make an crisis plan for disasters, such as fire, floods, and earthquakes. Each member of the family should know what to do in case of such incidents. You will be able to protect your family more if you put in order them earlier. Panic and blurring can often lead to injuries accidents.
Here are the things you should do during an earthquake:
The first thing you and your family should do is to stay away from objects that might fall off. Stay away from book cases, cabinets, and hanging objects, such as chandeliers, or ceiling fan.
During an earthquake, it is wiser that you stay put, particularly under sturdy tables or door frames. Do not run nearby or even attempt to get out of the house. There are more hazardous things surface your house that could injure you, such as lampposts and cars.
Make sure that the crisis kit that you ready is beyond doubt accessible. If possible, place it in a location where you and your family will run into during a quake.
Earthquake Preparedness - What You Should Do during 2012 Earthquake EmergenciesTangshan Earthquake, China
The 1976 Tangshan earthquake is an ominous reminder of how man-made institutions can enhance the effects of natural disasters. On July 28, 1976, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the market city of Tangshan, which had a population of about 1.6 million. The earthquake tremors flattened it roughly entirely and claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. The Chinese government gave a statistic of 240,000 killed as a corollary of the earthquake, but the death toll is notion by many to be much higher because of China's tendency to politicize natural disasters. Even at 244,000 fatalities, the Tangshan disaster is the second biggest of all time.
Aftermath
In the aftermath of the earthquake, China refused help from the United Nations and all other international bodies because it felt the need to demonstrate to its populace that it was a self-respecting nation. Initially, the Chinese government had set the death toll for the quake at 655,000 fatalities but, over the years, it greatly reduced the number to 240,000 and many feel that discount came about due to the mishandling of relief efforts by its idealistic leaders who notion they could cope the catastrophe without the international community.
Government Inaction
I find the actions taken by China's government to be inhumanely selfish and self-serving. Had there been maximum relief efforts taking place from all over the world, it is likely that many more population could have survived, but a paranoid, insecure leadership prevented that. The level of delusion of the Chinese leadership at that time was like something out of a crudely written comic book.
Timing
The earthquake could not be predicted, as is the case with many disasters that arise from their tremors. To make matters worse, the earthquake struck at 4Am, a time when most of Tangshan's population was asleep, so anything earthquake survival skills or salvage protocol that could have been put in place by the populace and local government were thwarted. The timing of the earthquake no doubt led to many additional fatalities.
Learning
I think the example of Tangshan serves as a model for what governments should not do in the event of an earthquake strike. Obviously, the natural disaster could not have been prevented, nor was there any salvage the infrastructure of the city, but many lives could have probably been saved were it not for the paranoid, self-serving Chinese regime.
Tangshan Earthquake, China 1976For San Diego County Residents - Do You Need to Worry About an Earthquake Destroying Your Home or Business?
If you live in California, the US Geological Survey has said that Southern California will most likely be hit with a big earthquake within the next 30 years. They said that there is a 99% chance that we'll experience a quake with a magnitude of at least 6.7. They also said there is 46% chance that we will have a 7.5 magnitude quake - or bigger.
So what does that mean for San Diego County residents? Even though the "big one" is supposed to have an epicenter somewhere in Southern California, most San Diego residents are not highly at risk. Well, at least compared to Orange County and Los Angeles (LA) residents. One indicator is earthquake insurance rates. In San Diego versus LA, the average premium cost in San Diego is only 1 per year compared to Los Angeles and Orange Counties which is 3 per year.
According to a recent San Diego Union Tribune article, a 'Big One' in California would not be like the recent big quake in Chile. Because California's seismic plate tectonics differ from Chile's, our region is not subject to the large magnitude quakes that they experience down there. In California the plates slide sideways while in Chile they slide under each other. Additionally the crust is a lot thinner here than in Chile. Because of those two factors, seismologists predict a maximum 8.1 quake at the worst for Southern California.
The San Andreas Fault, which extends from the Salton Sea to the town of Parkfield in Monterrey County, provides the greatest seismic threat. Luckily though, the Salton Sea area is a long distance away from most San Diego residents. In addition, the San Andreas Fault is inland and would not result in a tsunami, which caused much of the recent damage in Chile. There are several off shore faults near San Diego but they are very small and do not present much risk.
If a big jolt did indeed hit the San Andreas Fault near the Salton Sea, San Diego City residents would definitely feel it, but most likely would not experience catastrophic damage or casualties. Despite that, we do have a few smaller local faults that have the potential to generate a pretty big jolt. The most worrisome San Diego County faults are the Rose Canyon Fault on the east side of Pacific Beach and La Jolla. A little further south and inland, the La Nacion Fault runs through South San Diego, Chula Vista and National City. In the East County mountains and deserts, you need to be aware of the Elsinore, Aqua Caliente and San Jacinto Fault Zones.
So, depending on where you live, there is varying danger of fault movement and earthquake shaking. If you live close to a known fault, you should be aware of the possibility of a large jolt damaging your property. However, there are two other risk factors as well, they are landslide and liquefaction. During an earthquake, especially after wet weather, the violent earth shaking may trigger a landslide. However, of more importance is what your home or business is built upon.
Many San Diego homes and businesses are built on sand or on fill and are vulnerable to what is known as soil liquefaction. During a quake these kinds of soils can act like jello, amplifying a quake's movement more than a home built on rock or settled land. Because of liquefaction, a home that is close to a earthquake epicenter that is built on rock may experience less shaking and damage than a home that is much further away that is built on sand or fill.
How can you find out what is under your home and what danger is neighborhood is in?
A great online resource to check out your specific neighborhood is this SANGIS interactive map to find fault lines, landslide and liquefaction zones in your San Diego community http://files.sangis.org/interactive/viewer/Viewer.asp
It's a little complicated to find the dangers in your San Diego neighborhood. Start by clicking on the "custom map" button. On the right side scroll down and then click on Faults. Next click on Geologic Hazards. That will activate those map layers. Then hit Refresh at bottom of page on the right side.
Now is the fun part. Finding your neighborhood. Using the PAN and ZOOM IN controls, navigate around the map and zoom in to find your neighborhood and its geologic hazards for fault zones, liquefaction and landslides. You can zoom in to your specific block to get an idea of the earthquake related threats around your home or business.
If you are clear of all those, you probably don't need Earthquake Insurance as much as someone whose home is in a liquefaction zone adjacent to an earthquake fault.
by Ronald Reitz, CPPA, President of Quality Claims Management
How Necessary is Earthquake Insurance?It was not the earthquake. It was the poor construction methodology that killed more than 85,000 people. What's worse, habitancy have started constructing their houses by using the old technique of placing stone in walls. Again cement is being used as mortar for stone wall and they have failed to learned the lesson from the up-to-date devastating earthquake. Detailed prognosis of damaged structures demonstrated that stone wall using cement mortar or mud was the main cause of casualties.
Construction of stone masonry rural houses using/recycling construction materials such as Gi roofing sheets and timber from their damaged houses and in effect ready rubble from collapsed houses will be the most cost-effective and realistic and practicable advent for hereafter construction.
The core of the GoP's assistance to affected households in both urban and rural areas should be cash grants for basic housing assistance. The grants should be released in installments based on stages of construction, with technical assistance for introduction of seismic features in case,granted by local governments and/or provincial line agencies. There should be few categories of grant so that their supervision is simple. In this scheme, households will be able to utilise their own labour, use hired labour, or enter into an arrangement with a partner organisation/Ngo to rehabilitate or reconstruct their houses. However, close monitoring of reconstruction processes adopted will be crucial.
The objective of this practical reconstruction strategy is to rebuild the rural katcha houses by reusing the rubble of collapsed house to sacrifice the debris disposal cost of 9000 million rupees and to maximise the local capacity construction in earthquake resistant construction techniques.
The significance of configuration is well recognised in modern techniques to produce earthquake-resistant buildings. Configuration has to do with the shape and size of the building. Inevitably shape and size to a large extent determines (or greatly influences) the type, shape, arrangement, size, location and most other aspects of the structural concept.
As stated earlier, the main contributor and the principle cause of deaths in the up-to-date earthquake is the total or partial collapse of buildings. About 95 per cent of fatalities, however, are caused by the collapse of primarily are weak masonry structure (adobe, rubble stone, or rammed earth) or un-reinforced brick and concrete block masonry that collapsed.
Another factor is the irregular geometric shape of the buildings. In Rawalakot during the up-to-date earthquake, most modern structure collapsed except the six-sided polygon shaped aged temple built hundreds of years ago based on unavoidable system of construction. Dome and hexagon are the fundamental, essential, and excellent form of structure to disperse seismic troops equally in all directions and are therefore safe in case of natural calamities. Irregular shapes corollary in uneven distribution of forces, thereby development structure prone to collapse.
The heavy damage to many of the structure could be attributed to poor construction practices and irregular geometric shapes. The former load-bearing elements are the walls. Hence, the failure of these masonry walls in out-of-plane bending and in-plane shear has resulted in structural collapse or heavy damage. Shear cracks were observed though stone masonry as well as mortar. Many of the industrial structure of reinforced concrete frame and slab construction with masonry have suffered collapse or widespread damage in all earthquakes.
Deviation from earthquake resistant produce doctrine is greatly observed in collapse of the 11-storey residential apartment structure in the Margalla Towers complex Islamabad, constructed just over 10 years ago. The construction has a basement and therefore the basement floor is a soft storey as shown in photograph. The soft storey understanding is very dangerous in earthquakes.
It's again a underlying issue for builders and architects to understand that while designing and constructing a construction in earthquake prone area, its size and shape is a basic factor to be considered. Other factors like the height of a construction in an earthquake (which exhibits horizontal forces) is analogous to the length of a cantilever. It is self evident that increasing height increases earthquake-resisting qoute exponentially, all other things being equal. Height affects the natural vibrating period of the building. The higher the construction the longer its period. Depending on the nature of the earthquake and the nature of the founding soils, increasing the period may growth or sacrifice the response of the building. Limiting the height/width ratio, keeps the overturning qoute within reasonable bounds. In particular, large overturning moments on narrow footprints can lead to high compressive troops on outer columns. These can be very difficult to deal with.
An important characteristic missing in the collapsed structure is their symmetry. This characteristic applies to horizontal plan shape as well as to vertical elevation shape. There are many cases of false symmetry observed where the centre of mass of the construction did not coincide with the centre of resistance, although the outward appearance of the construction may be symmetrical. The temple is showing perfectness in its symmetry.
Another favourable characteristic of earthquake-resistant structures is redundancy. Redundant structures contribute multiple load paths so that the premature failure of one (or a few) elements would not lead to the catastrophic and sudden collapse of the building. The most favourable locations of vertical elements for resisting horizontal loads is at the perimeter of the building. This is so because such locations contribute the most lever arm for resisting overturning moments. A non-structural detailing recipe for in-fill block walls often produces short columns. These columns absorb more than their incredible share of the lateral loads from earthquakes, important to shear failure. Disunion joints are used for several reasons in buildings. When this is done the joint between the adjacent parts of the construction must be sufficiently wide to avoid hammering during an earthquake. another issue to be addressed with Disunion joints is the flexibility of mechanical services as they cross the joint.
The commonly-accepted aim of good earthquake-resistant produce is to bring about 'failure' (or yielding) of the beam before failure of the contiguous column takes place. This characteristic is described as strong column weak beam. The coarse hindrance to this desirable highlight is the spandrel beam at the perimeter of a building. These are often quite deep for architectural reasons and can be quite an embarrassment for the structural design.
"Building Blocks" building Methodology And Earthquake - 2005Gas pipelines can become quite risky in the event of an earthquake, in fact, natural gas explosions that are a direct supervene of an earthquake often does more damage than the earthquake itself. The danger is not only to your property - it is also a hazard to your house members, the property of your neighbours and your neighbours themselves. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes such as Los Angeles and you use natural gas then you will need to reconsider installing an earthquake valve that automatically shuts off the flow of gas in the event an earthquake hits. The cost of installing such a thing can be actually absorbed by the expense of greater guarnatee premiums; loss of human life and property mend in the event guarnatee does not cover you. It can also absolve you from liability if person is injured as a direct supervene of a gas explosion that has occurred due to the lack of earthquake valve installed on your natural gas pipelines.
There are a few types of earthquake valves on the market; typically the options will consist of a pressure sensitive valve that kicks in due to inordinate gas flow or a appeal sensitive valve that kicks in if there is movement in a pipe that is likely to be caused by an earthquake. Both of these valves are effective methods of shutting down gas flow in the event of an earthquake. The appeal sensing valve works by seating a metal ball bearing above the pipe, suspended on a small rubber or metal ring. In the event the pipe is shaken the ball dislodges itself and falls into the pipe, essentially cutting off gas flow. If it happens to block off the gas then you will need to have the piping inspected by a pro to insure there is no breakage prior to having the ball bearing fished out and the gas flow re-initiated. To have the piping inspected and the devices restarted that utilise natural gas it is unlikely to cost you money as most gas suppliers undertake these inspections for free.
The flow sensor is a diminutive more advanced as it sits upon the pipe listening for inordinate gas flow. Although it is believed to be a diminutive more problematic than the appeal sensitive valve as it might not pick up slow leaks caused by a broken pipe elsewhere in the line - and as with the appeal sensitive valve it will require the pipes to be inspected fully prior to re-initiating gas flow. If whether of these forms of earthquake valve is triggered then it is likely to be indicative of a qoute so it is in your best interest to have the pipes inspected. Sometimes a minor tremor that is hardly felt on the face can do a great deal of damage to the pipes. Sometimes it may not be due to an earthquake that the valve system is triggered - whether way, it is better to be safe than sorry when dealing with such a vaporing compound.
Earthquake Valves and protection Issues Surrounding ThemIntroduction
If you want to know why the Japan tsunami turned into a far greater disaster than the initial earthquake and learn the 7 main reasons for this calamity, then read on. In this article we will touch on the government, closed cultures, leadership vacuum, system failures and Japanese crisis management, timing and information practices.
By the end of this article you will have the information to act in a much more decisive manner during the next similar crisis or immediately review your crisis and continuity plans involving Japan.
Government
The Japanese government and political leadership has been in constant turmoil for the past few years, with regular scandals and changes. This constant change and lack of continuity has resulted in each successive party's rebirth and having to learn "on the job" without a clear political vision. Lack of experience in power coupled with perpetual flux for all government employees and agencies results in limited growth, development and the absence of clear leadership. This is not the type of situation you want during great times of disaster but the current situation Japan has, on top of the natural calamity, and it has been a major contributor to the compounding problems and lack of appropriate action at all stages. This was both foreseeable and likely.
Many public utilities are privately owned and have enjoyed limited government oversight or interference. The government is all but powerless to correct the lack of oversight and accountability at this late stage and are dependent on the private companies for all the decision and action taking. For reasons mentioned further on, this is perfect storm of failure in the making.
Japanese governance is an extension of norms and culture, which have created this malaise.
Culture
Most will be aware that the Japanese culture and sense of community is very unique in many ways. However, with nearly 25% of the population over 65, growing generational gaps, history and habit of covering up the truth in order to save face, lack of leadership at all functional levels and a group culture of sufferance and stoic resolve in the face of adversity do not strengthen the county or business sectors capacity to plan, manage and respond to crisis. In weakens it.
Internationally, Japanese executives and companies are known for their lack of crisis management plans and decision making. The country and national businesses have enjoyed fantastic economic success and have never seen the need to change or evolve without the pressure of failure or the demand to innovate. This is significantly more so within the ranks of Japanese government agencies. Therefore, they have not embraced or implemented current competencies for crisis management as they have not seen the "need".
Culture often determines the strengths and weaknesses of the planning process but it must be assessed objectively as culture is the one common element to all societies, locations and plans.
Crisis Management Preparedness
The evolution of crisis management and disaster prevention has been accelerated by the acknowledgment that while their may be "acts of god" there is much man can do to plan, manage and respond to such acts without a spiritual belief that one must simply accept ones' fate. This is not the case with much of Japan's executive leadership. Therefore they fail to plan for many natural disasters in an adequate and holistic manner. Most Japanese simply accept disaster, whether secular or religious.
One statement summed up the issue by stating "they had no crisis management because they were never ready for crisis".
Most companies and foreigners in Japan have failed to understand or mitigate against this reality which has left them very vulnerable and greatly affected.
Despite the "first world" label applied to Japan, many parts of the country are still less advanced and from the perspective of a foreigner, signs, language, decision making and government services are still very exclusively "Japanese access" preferred. In time of disaster, access and benefit from any internal resource is further diminished.
I have said before, crisis leadership is always preferable to crisis management but an absence of leadership can be deadly.
Leadership Vacuum
Only the elderly and senior management are permitted to make decisions. This may work in a functioning communications and repetitive work environment but not in a dynamic crisis situation or natural calamity. Lack of communication and a vacuum of independent thought and decision making have compounded the event beyond it's initial occurrence.
No person is to blame for a natural disaster but each and everyone affected or responsible will be judged on how they manage and respond to such events. Most have been found wanting.
Leaders need information to act. You can act in the absence of information but continuos limitations on information and its impact create even more chaos and disaster.
Information Access and Release
Nearly all Japanese businesses and government agencies are very protective of information even secretive, especially around unpleasant or embarrassing information. Cover ups, information filtering, trickle release, lies and lack of understanding play a role and have been demonstrated throughout.
No one received accurate and truthful information as to the state of the affected nuclear plants. Only hindsight will reveal just how wide spread the issue was but it was predictable and evident from the beginning that it would be managed in this way.
Again, cultural trends indicate those responsible would rather fail outright, apologies later, cry in public or just fade away than accept responsibility now, act now and share all the facts and truth about the situation from the onset of disaster.
All plans and response are dependent on supporting systems. Lose one, lose them all and you need an alternate response in order to be effective.
Systems Failure
All the best plans and considerations are inclusive of single and multiple system failures. Not in Japan. Little to no consideration has been given to a series of system failures such as communications, transport, access, health care, utilities and food supplies. This is painfully evident and compounded the issues while most have only discovered this lack of planning and preparation, after the fact.
Timing
Disasters and crisis seldom occur at a time of your choosing. Planning, training, rehearsals and response all need to be inclusive of the "worst possible time" concept. Weather has played a significant role in this calamity and it's painfully evident that all supporting plans (as limited as we now know) clearly did not encompass the foreseeable and historical bad weather patterns experienced in Japan. Rain, hail, sleet and snow all have an impact on the response to an earthquake, fire, tsunami and flood. Sometimes positively but also negatively.
Here we have seen a lack of preparation, triggered at the worst possible time, creating the mess that has affected millions of citizens, residents, expatriates, companies and travellers.
Conclusion
Japan and the Japanese people are not blame for this natural calamity but their culture and unique circumstances have compounded the response and increased suffering.
Any company or foreigner "caught out" by this phenomena has failed to localize their plans, management and response to crisis. These oversights have resulted in poor accountability for missing people, delayed decision making, failed plans, over confidence in government advice, diminished ownership/action by companies along with heightened risk to those affected.
Now that you understand the additional factors contributing to this particular calamity such as government, culture, timing, leadership, management, information and system failures you can immediately correct your errors or fix the flaws in your current plans.
Condolences to those affected by this recent tragedy but lack of planning and preparation is no excuse when faced with foreseeable and likely crisis, no matter the source.
7 Reasons Why the Japan Tsunami Has Created a Much Greater Disaster Than the Initial EarthquakeEarthquake is the follow of seismic activity of an area that suddenly releases energy. It ordinarily occurs within a duration of time and come in several waves. Earthquake is a coarse earth activity that can cause damage to house and furniture. It might even cause deaths to human and animals. Preventing the earthquake is kind of impossible to be done by the coarse people. But, preventing the damage of an earthquake is not impossible to be done by the coarse people.
There are several things that you can do to minimize the damage of an earthquake. These things cannot be done in half way because every petite mistake can cause big damage. You might regret it later if you do not care about your own safety. I assure you to rearrange your house in order to preclude the earthquake damage.
1. The first thing that you can do is to collect your furniture. Avoid buying brittle furniture because it would mess up if it cracked. brittle furniture like glasses might hurt you if it falls down and broken into tiny pieces. You need to rearrange your furniture as well in order to preclude them from falling down or turning over.
2. Tighten your plumbing appliances to avoid leakage. It has to be done especially for the appliances that are associated to gas pipes. You have to store all chemicals and other risky liquid in a safe place like in the cabinet. Do not forget to shut the cabinet tightly. It is to preclude any damage caused by chemicals and risky liquids. Liquid gas is one of the examples of risky liquids that could cause fire.
3. The last thing that I recommend you is to keep fire extinguishers in reachable places nearby your house. Earthquake might cause fire from the spilled risky liquid, electricity problems and so forth. As explained before, risky liquid like liquid gas might cause fire if static electricity occurs. Many other things also possible to cause fire because we never know what would happen in such a life-risking time. Therefore, you need to have fire extinguishers at least one in your house and more for larger house.
From all the tips I stated above, I hope that you can start rearranging your home in order to preclude earthquake damage. This record is made for you who live in an area that has frequent earthquakes. If you do not live in such risky area you can also follow my tips because we never know what might happen to us.
Tips to prevent Earthquake DamageIs it inherent and has mankind reached the point in which they can now stop Earthquakes? By knowing all the pressure points along major fault lines is it inherent to alleviate pressure and prevent the "big one" or the Monster Quake in California which we all know is only a matter of time?
This very serious topic has recently come up in an online think tank and has been discussed at length. It seems roughly an impossible task to achieve although it has been the dream of many tectonic researchers indeed.
Of course the faults would have to be completely mapped and we would need to determine exactly how the weight distribution works and where. But making or stopping an Earthquake may not be so difficult once all this in known. Pop a pressure point in a large fault line in the middle of plates or within plates and it will give way and you have a quake.
Relieve pressure gently and the event is a lot of little slippage without damage to civilizations. But in doing so you may be changing other cycles of cataclysmic evolution which is needed for an additional one species to survive by eliminating a dominate player in its food chain. Everything you do affects something else. So you must make sure when you make a move that you think through the entire game so to speak. This is a fun conversation assuredly and many citizen are intrigued by the conception of a time to come when man conquers quakes. Reconsider this in 2006.
Can We Stop Earthquakes?The bowels of the Earth are unpredictably volatile, and every now and then the force within tries to burst to the surface with devastating power. Why do earthquakes happen? This cataclysmic phenomenon is actually part of a natural geological process.
Earthquakes are caused by seismic waves that are produced by a sudden and massive release of energy from the surface of the Earth, the crust. Just one of a number of the Earth's layers (which includes the core), the crust is itself composed of several sections referred to as plates which are continuously moving, but at such a slow pace that any significant effect it would have will only be felt after several thousand years. Once in a while, a plate's motion against another one causes an energy buildup that is released at the plates' meeting point, known as the fault line. The resulting energy discharge is the reason for why do earthquakes happen.
The focal point is the area from which the accumulated energy that can cause an earthquake comes from. It is typically located at the shallow depths from the crust, and positioned right on its surface is the epicenter. It is from here that seismic waves radiate in every direction, traveling at a variety of rates depending on the features (mass, solidity, etc.) of whatever substance they run into throughout the crust. The waves move constantly, but they eventually grow weaker the farther away that they get from the focal point. Ultimately, the waves will ebb away once the energy that produced them has been exhausted.
While the seismic waves make their way through the crust, they carry such a massive quantity of energy along with them that whatever they pass through is affected by it, thus causing the strong trembling in the ground that typifies the occurrence of an earthquake. How powerful and how long the duration of the quake would depend on how strong the seismic waves are. A mild tremor might result in very minimal damages, whereas a very strong, very violent one would wreak major havoc, sending huge buildings crashing down and causing the very ground to break open. As this is happening, the seismic waves would also be causing the ground to reverberate or make noise, potentially contributing even greater amount of destruction to an already catastrophic quake.
There are also other factors which affect the event of an earthquake. For instance, a man-made explosion packing enough force can produce enough energy to cause a tremor. Also, as powerful as an earthquake is, it can also be caused by another powerful disaster, such as volcanic eruption. Somewhat in relation to this, just as significant as the matter of why do earthquakes happen is the matter of where. The majority of quakes that occur in the world (some 90% of them) usually happen in what is referred to as the "Pacific Ring of Fire," a 45 kilometer horseshoe-shaped area which has 452 volcanoes comprising 75% of all the active and dormant volcanoes in the world. And the occurrence of a quake can also trigger another natural cataclysm. For example, a quake that happens underground may also result in a tsunami.
Frightening and at the same time fascinating; the answers to the question of why do earthquakes happen fills us with awe as it does with dread. In a way, it puts us mere mortals in our place, reminding us that we are always under the malevolent mercy of this mighty planet that we exist upon.
Earthquake Facts Unearthed