NIST, through the ATC-120 Project, sponsored a detailed investigation into the basis of nonstructural seismic design provisions, with the intent of recommending improvements that will have the largest impact to public safety and economic welfare. Research, development and targeted investigations are in the final stages of completion. The project included a detailed knowledge study documenting performance of nonstructural components in past earthquakes, history and evolution of nonstructural seismic design provision and criteria, analytical investigations and shake table testing. A practitioners' workshop, which included participation from many SEAOC members, was convened to obtain broad-based industry input on nonstructural seismic design issues. Building on this knowledge, a comprehensive analytical study of relevant factors contributing to seismic performance of nonstructural components and systems was undertaken, providing a technically sound basis for proposed code changes. A set of nonstructural performance objectives is proposed, in addition to code changes that seek to clarify, organize and simplify nonstructural design requirements. Finally, a new design philosophy for nonstructural components is proposed.
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