Engineers welcome new framework for managing earthquake-prone buildings
19 July 2017
IPENZ: Engineers say new legislation marks
a step forward in improving
New Zealand’s building stock.
Structural Engineering Society (SESOC) spokesperson Paul Campbell says 1
July was a positive day for engineers and for Councils.
“It’s about having a better framework and tools for assessing
buildings, which will help improve our building stock and increase
our seismic resilience. It also means a more consistent approach to the
management of earthquake-prone buildings.
“The new legislation will encourage discussion between owners and
engineers on how owners can proactively manage and improve buildings.”
New Zealand Society of Earthquake Engineering (NZSEE) President Peter
Smith says the new engineering guidelines create a more systematic
approach to seismic assessment.
“They provide clearer definitions and more detailed guidance on ratings,
which will make assessments more consistent."
IPENZ Chief Executive Susan Freeman-Greene says building owners looking
for an engineer to carry out a seismic assessment should make sure the
engineer has received training on the new guidelines.
“Building owners should use Chartered Professional Engineers when
commissioning seismic assessments.”
“We recommend that building owners also ask engineers about their
experience of that specific type of building and whether they are
members of SESOC, NZSEE or NZGS.”
--ENDS--
Source: Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand - www.ipenz.nz
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