Earthquake Preparedness and Recovery
The Critical Role of Access to Emergency and Building Information

Earthquakes are a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability and the immense responsibility facility managers bear in ensuring the safety of occupants and infrastructure. From California’s seismic regulations to international standards like the International Building Code (IBC), facility managers must align their efforts with both legal requirements and practical readiness. Equally vital is the capacity for immediate access to building and emergency information, a factor that can significantly influence the outcome of both preparation and recovery efforts.

 

Proactive Preparedness: Building Resilience Before Disaster Strikes

Earthquake preparedness begins long before the tremors are felt. This involves structural reinforcements like seismic retrofitting, foundation bolting, and soft-story retrofits to align buildings with regional codes. Many California cities enforce mandatory seismic retrofit programs, underscoring the necessity for compliance to protect lives and assets. Facilities teams should also prioritize the following:

1. Safety Equipment: Stock comprehensive emergency kits, ensure first aid supplies are accessible, and maintain updated evacuation maps throughout the building.
2. Utilities and Shut-Offs: Train staff about the locations and operation of gas and electrical shut-offs to prevent secondary hazards.
3. Digital Tools: Utilize earthquake warning apps, which provide critical seconds of notice, enabling staff to act promptly.
4. Regular Drills: Conduct annual earthquake drills, emphasizing evacuation protocols, "drop, cover, and hold on" techniques, and post-event building assessments.

 

Instant Access to Information: A Game-Changer

One of the most impactful elements of earthquake preparedness and response is having instant access to critical building and equipment information. Whether through digital platforms or physical Knox boxes, this data ensures first responders and facility managers can act quickly and effectively.

Dean Stanberry, SFP, CFM, highlighted the importance of disaster recovery services that store vital details, including building access, locations of critical equipment, and contact information. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and accelerates recovery. Similarly, Nicola Harwood of the City of Hope stressed the role of Knox boxes containing full-access badges and keys for first responders. This simple yet effective system ensures seamless entry during emergencies.

 

Risk Assessments: Understanding Vulnerabilities

Effective earthquake preparation begins with a thorough risk assessment. Structural engineers specializing in seismic safety can evaluate buildings and provide findings that outline risks and mitigation strategies. Facility managers should also conduct regular visual inspections, looking for:

• Cracked drywall or concrete.
• Roof separations or structural displacements.
• Signs of wear in parking lots, foundations, and landscape depressions.

Photographic documentation of building conditions can establish a baseline for comparison after an earthquake, simplifying damage assessments. Training and Communication: Empowering Teams and Occupants

Preparedness is only as strong as the people implementing it. Facility managers must ensure staff and occupants are well-trained in emergency protocols. Regular training should include:

• Evacuation procedures.
• Earthquake-specific actions like "drop, cover, and hold on."
• Post-event building assessments for hazards like gas leaks or structural instability.

Clear communication plans are equally critical. Establish resilient systems to inform employees and visitors during and after an earthquake, including mobile alerts, public address systems, and physical signage.

 

Recovery: From Damage to Normalcy

Post-earthquake recovery is a delicate balance of urgency and caution. Immediate priorities should include:

1. Safety Checks: Inspect buildings for structural integrity, gas leaks, and other hazards. Engage certified professionals for detailed assessments.
2. Communication: Keep stakeholders informed about the status of repairs and expected timelines for resuming normal operations.
3. Repairs: Prioritize essential systems like power, HVAC, and water.

An often-overlooked component is understanding insurance policies. Many policies exclude or limit earthquake damage unless a specific rider is included. Facility managers should work with insurance adjusters to align inspection findings with coverage, ensuring all eligible damages are addressed.

 

Lessons from Experience: The Human Factor

Rex Willis, a facilities professional with decades of experience in earthquake-prone Southern California, emphasized the importance of situational awareness and immediate action. Following the 2021 Ridgecrest quake, quick communication and visual assessments allowed his team to safely reopen a site the next day, with certified contractors addressing minor cosmetic issues afterward.

This anecdote underscores the value of preparedness, on-the-ground decision-making, and having a robust network of trained professionals. Future-Proofing with Technology and Compliance

To stay ahead of evolving challenges, facility managers should leverage technology like digital blueprints and cloud-based emergency systems for faster access to information. Compliance with updated building codes, including seismic provisions in the IBC, ensures infrastructure remains resilient against increasing seismic activity.

Earthquake preparedness and recovery demand a multifaceted approach that integrates structural resilience, proactive planning, staff training, and the strategic use of technology. Instant access to emergency and building information is not just a convenience—it is a lifesaving necessity. By embracing these strategies, facility managers can protect their buildings, ensure occupant safety, and recover swiftly from nature’s inevitable tests.

Using mobile devices and the ARC Facilities platform, facilities teams can access building plans, emergency equipment, evacuation routes and first responder information in seconds – accelerating emergency responsiveness and recovery during and after earthquakes.

Here’s a quick video – ARC Facilities “in action.”