IDENTIFICATION OF OCCUPANT SAFETY ISSUES IN HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS DURING STRONG EARTHQUAKES BY QUESTIONNAIRE SURVEYS(Disaster)

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify problems related to occupant safety in high-rise buildings in strong earthquakes. Questionnaire-based surveys were conducted after the 2003 Miyagiken-oki earthquake and the 2005 West off Fukuoka earthquake to investigate indoor damage and occupant behavior in selected high-rise buildings. The results of the investigations reveal the importance of rapid information transfer to occupants regarding building damage, which can serves both to reassure occupants and to ensure calm behavior immediately following the event. The study also summarizes a few important aspects to consider to enhance day-to-day earthquake disaster-prevention measures in high-rise buildings.