NZ - Quake strengthening of buildings failed

[Sally Furniss]

Steel rods installed to earthquake-strengthen Christchurch buildings failed to stop facades collapsing on to busy streets on February 22, the co-author of a new report has found.

The report shows that 40 people died in the February 22 quake as a result of falling masonry. Families of the dead say the country is "honour-bound" to learn from the findings.

more http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/ne...ke-2011/5591868/Rods-just-pulled-straight-out

 

[Emily]

Re: NZ - Quake strengthening of buildings failed

Ingham, an associate professor at Auckland University, said the finding was alarming as the quake-strengthening method is widely used in New Zealand and the United States.

The article goes on to say the rods have been extensively used in CA. Hopefully they will perform under lesser forces than what hit Christchurch until if and when a better system is designed and installed.