Benchmark NBC editions for seismic risk management of existing buildings in Canada

Abstract

The National Research Council Canada recently developed a multi-criteria and multi-level framework for seismic risk management of existing buildings in Canada. One of the key criteria in this framework is benchmark NBC edition, which refers to the applicable edition of National Building Code of Canada (NBC) in which significantly improved seismic requirements were adopted and enforced. Since post-benchmark buildings are expected to demonstrate satisfactory seismic performance, they may be exempt from structural seismic risk assessment. This paper identifies benchmark NBC editions for 17 model building types in Canada. The identification starts by tracking major seismic improvements in the United States benchmark codes and standards. These improvements are then mapped to applicable NBC editions and relevant design standards. Provincial building code editions corresponding to benchmark NBC editions are also identified. The benchmark NBC editions and corresponding provincial building code editions help building owners quickly identify and exempt post-benchmark buildings with acceptable seismic risks and thus allocate resources to the buildings with potentially unacceptable seismic risks.