Keep new development out of dangerous locations where possible. Strengthen exposed buildings and the services communities depend on.
Land-use planning can restrict homes and essential facilities in fault-rupture zones, unstable slopes, tsunami flood areas and volcanic flow paths. Avoiding new exposure is often easier than moving a large settlement later. Use maps for each hazard: a site outside a lava zone may still face lahars or ash.
Hazard-resistant design helps exposed buildings withstand forces and movement. Earthquake measures include stronger connections, bracing and ductile systems that deform without suddenly breaking. Dampers absorb energy to reduce movement. Base isolation reduces movement passed from the ground into a building. The choice depends on the site and structure. Retrofitting upgrades existing buildings, often at substantial cost.
Design works only with suitable materials, skilled construction, inspection and maintenance. Ignored standards offer little protection. Poorer households may need financial or technical help. Upgrading older buildings can also disrupt homes and businesses.
Relocation can reduce exposure while harming livelihoods, transport access or community ties. Consult residents, explain the evidence and provide support and affordable alternatives. Otherwise, people may simply move to another unsafe place.
Community resilience also needs organisation. Trusted local networks can identify isolated residents, share information and maintain plans. Authorities can connect this knowledge with expertise and finance. Strong individual buildings still depend on working water, power and access networks.
Step by step
Choose safer sites
Keep new development away from mapped hazard zones where possible.
Strengthen exposed structures
Design and retrofit buildings for the forces they may face.
Keep the plan workable
Inspection, maintenance, affordable options and community support make protection last.
Worked example: Why the whole service matters
An earthquake-resistant clinic may remain standing but be unable to function if its water supply, power and only access road fail. Resilience planning includes these connections, backup arrangements and staff capacity.
Watch out for this
Earthquake-resistant design means a building cannot be damaged by any earthquake.
Design reduces risk under specified conditions. Extreme loads, poor construction and network failures can still create harm.
Check your understanding
How do safer siting and structural strengthening differ?
- Siting reduces exposure; strengthening reduces physical vulnerability.
- Both stop the tectonic plates from moving.
- A building code automatically relocates every exposed household.