Introduction to Natural and Man-made Disasters and Their Effects on Buildings

This is a comprehensive guide to all types of natural and man made disasters and their effect on buildings. It gives overall guidance and a basic technical understanding of prevention, mitigation and management of disaster, and outlines a checklist of preventive design elements for each situation.Every category is illustrated with a case study which pin points the essential information that is crucial to architects and engineers in designing buildings with disaster prevention in mind.The aim of the book is to give a clear understanding of the nature of events and problems, and to enable readers to respond with knowledge to the unique demands placed on their designs.A special emphasis is also placed on re-building as an opportunity to start again. For the specialists this is a process of constant learning and improving techniques in the light of events past.

…includes several case studies that are very interesting, perhaps the most interesting part to most people. – Architecture BostonThe appendices… …are an important contribution – I have not previously found them all together in any single publication. – Architecture BostonThe appendices also contain an excellent bibliography, which will be helpful to both the serious disaster professional and interested citizen. – Architecture Boston

Roxanna McDonald