This study provides an introduction to the concepts and principles of seismic design, including
strategies for designing earthquakeresistant buildings to ensure the health, safety, and security of
building occupants and assets. There are three main factors that contribute to the successful seismic
design. Firstly, the design team must consider a multihazard approach in designing the structure that
accounts for the potential impacts of seismic forces as well as all the major hazards to which an area is
vulnerable. Secondly, considerations need to be made pertaining to the performancebased
requirements. This requirement may exceed the minimum life safety requirements of current seismic
codes. Therefore, the safety factor must be established to respond appropriately to the threats and
risks posed by natural hazards on the building's mission and occupants. Thirdly, since earthquake
forces are dynamic and each building responds according to its own design complexity, it is essential
that the design team work collaboratively and have a common understanding of the terms and methods
used in the seismic design process. In addition to that, as a general rule, building that is designed to
resist earthquakes should also resist blast (terrorism) or wind, suffering less damage.
