Investigation on Ceiling Damages at 6 Large Enclosures Damaged during off the Coast of Fukushima Earthquake on Mar. 16, 2022

Abstract

On March 16, 2022, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake "off the coast of Fukushima" caused damages to the ceiling of several large enclosures, located in Tohoku region. Field survey was carried out at 6 facilities. The damage varied depending on the facility, from large-scale ceiling collapses to small-scale ceiling damage, but common damages such as breakage of hanging bolts, failure of spot welds, and deformation of hangers were observed. Besides, existence of facilities having prepared measures to prevent ceiling fall, such as safety nets, was confirmed. Since falling of heavy ceiling installed in high places could lead to life-threatening injury to users, it is necessary to take measures to prevent the falling, and to protect human life.