The Role of Fragility Assessment in Consequence-Based Engineering

Abstract

Concepts of uncertainty modeling and fragility assessment in earthquake engineering and their applications in consequence-based engineering (CBE) of buildings in a region of low-to-moderate seismicity are presented. Efficient treatment of uncertainties in components and systems that are major contributors to building vulnerability is an essential ingredient of risk assessment and decision making. Current methodologies are reviewed first. A framework for fragility analysis then is demonstrated using an unreinforced masonry building as an example. The importance of fragility analysis in various stages of risk assessment, loss estimation, and decision making in CBE to achieve the desirable long-term objective in reduction of loss and consequence with the most efficient intervention measures is clearly indicated. Current research issues related to vulnerability assessment are identified.