Seismic restraint of nonstructural components (i.e., building contents and all building elements not part of the building structure) has gained in importance over the past decade. The primary objectives associated with seismic design of nonstructural components can be stated as: 1. Mitigation of falling hazards, particularly in or around paths of egress; 2. Mitigation of the release of hazardous materials; 3. Ongoing operability of structures and buildings vital to post-earthquake recovery (e.g. hospitals and fire stations); and 4. Mitigation of property and commercial losses. The requirements of ASCE/SEI 7-10 Chapter 13 are specifically intended to address the first three concerns, i.e., reduction (not elimination) of risks to building occupants associated with dislodgement and disruption of fixed building contents and systems, prevention of haz/tox release, and improvement of the likelihood that essential facilities will continue to function after an earthquake. While not a stated goal, some degree of property protection may result from successful implementation of the provisions; however, significant reduction of property losses, e.g., associated with pipe rupture and consequential flooding may require implementation of a greater degree of protection (such as leak tightness in piping systems).
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