2-1

2
GUIDE TO USE OF THE PROVISIONS
Michael Valley, P.E.
The flow charts and table that follow are provided to assist the user of the NEHRP Recommended
Provisions and, by extension, the seismic provisions of ASCE 7, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings
and Other Structures, the International Building Code, and NFPA 5000. The flow charts provide an
overview of the complete process for satisfying the Provisions, including the content of all technical
chapters. The table that concludes this chapter provides cross references for ASCE 7 and the 2000 and
2000 editions of the NEHRP Recommended Provisions.
The flow charts are expected to be of most use to those who are unfamiliar with the scope of the NEHRP
Recommended Provisions, but they cannot substitute for a careful reading of the Provisions. Notes
indicate discrepancies and errors in the Provisions. Both editions of the Provisions can be obtained free
from the FEMA Publications Distribution Center by calling 1-800-480-2520. Order by FEMA
Publication number; the 2003 Provisions is available as FEMA 450 in CD form (only a limited number of
paper copies are available) and the 2000 Provisions are available as FEMA 368 and 369 (2 volumes and
maps).
Although the examples in this volume are based on the 2000 Provisions, they have been annotated to
reflect changes made to the 2003 Provisions. Annotations within brackets, [ ], indicate both
organizational changes (as a result of a reformat of all of the chapters of the 2003 Provisions) and
substantive technical changes to the 2003 Provisions and its primary reference documents. For those
readers coming from ASCE 7-05, see the cross reference table at the end of this chapter.
The level of detail shown varies, being greater where questions of applicability of the Provisions are
pertinent and less where a standard process of structural analysis or detailing is all that is required. The
details contained in the many standards referenced in the Provisions are not included; therefore, the actual
flow of information when proportioning structural members for the seismic load effects specified in the
Provisions will be considerably more complex.
On each chart the flow generally is from a heavy-weight box at the top-left to a medium-weight box at the
bottom-right. User decisions are identified by six-sided cells. Optional items and modified flow are
indicated by dashed lines.
Chart 2.1 provides an overall summary of the process which begins with consideration of the Scope of
Coverage and ends with Quality Assurance Requirements. All of the specific provisions pertaining to
nonbuilding structures are collected together on one page (Chart 2.20); application for nonbuilding
structures requires the use of various portions of the Provisions with appropriate modification.
Additions to, changes of use in, and alterations of existing structures are covered by the NEHRP
Recommended Provisions (see Chart 2.3), but evaluation and rehabilitation of existing structures is not.
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-2
In recent years FEMA has sponsored several coordinated efforts dealing with seismic safety in existing
buildings. A Handbook for Seismic Evaluation of Buildings (FEMA 310) was developed as an update to
the original FEMA 178, although this document has since been replaced by the ASCE 31 Standard
(Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings). Guidelines for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings
(FEMA 273) and a corresponding Commentary (FEMA 274) have also been developed. A prestandard
(FEMA 356, Prestandard and Commentary for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings) based on FEMA
273 has been developed and is in balloting as ASCE 41. In addition, specific recommendations have been
developed for the evaluation, repair, and rehabilitation of earthquake-damaged concrete and masonry wall
buildings (FEMA 306, 307, and 308) and for the evaluation, rehabilitation, post-earthquake assessment,
and repair of steel moment frame structures (FEMA 351 and 352).
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-3
Chart 2.2
Scope of Coverage
Chart 2.3
Application to Existing
Structures
Chart 2.4
Basic Requirements
Chart 2.22
Architectural, Mechanical,
Electrical Requirements
Chart 2.11
Strength Requirements
Chart 2.12
Deformation Requirements
Chart 2.13
Design and Detailing
Requirements
Chart 2.21
Foundations
Chart 2.5
Structural Design
Chart 2.23
Quality Assurance
Requirements
Chart 2.8
Modal Analysis
Chart 2.7
Soil-Structure
Interaction
Chart 2.6
ELF Analysis
Chart 2.10
Seismically
Isolated
Chart 2.14
Steel
Chart 2.15
Concrete
Chart 2.16
Precast
Chart 2.17
Composite
Chart 2.18
Masonry
Chart 2.19
Wood
Chart 2.20
Nonbuilding
Structures
Chart 2.9
Response History
Analysis
Chart 2.1
Overall Summary of Flow
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-4
No
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Tank in SUG III?
Satisfy freeboard
requirement (Sec. 14.7.3.6.1.2)
[Sec. 14.4.7.5.3].
No
Yes
*The Provisions has never defined clearly the scope of application for structures assigned to Seismic
Design Category A. Although the framers of the Provisions intended application of only a few simple
requirements in Seismic Design Category A, a strict reading of the 2000 Provisions would lead to a
substantial list of items that remain within the scope. [As a result of the complete re-write of the Provisions
at the beginning of the 2003 update cycle, this situation is improved considerably as the requirements for
Seismic Design Category A all appear in Sec. 1.5.]
Determine if structure falls in scope
of the Provisions (Sec. 1.2 [1.1.2]).
Is it a self-supporting structure
which carries gravity loads?
Is structure a bridge, nuclear
power generation plant, offshore
platform, or dam?
Is the use agricultural with only
incidental human occupancy?
Is it a detached 1- or
2-family dwelling?
S

1
0.04 and
S

S
0.15?
Is it an existing structure?
Provisions not
applicable.
No requirements.
No additional
requirements.
Satisfy Sec. 5.2.5 and 5.2.6.1
(i.e., consider as Seismic
Design Category A)*.
Go to Chart 2.3.
Go to Chart 2.4.
SDC A, B, or C?
Wood frame dwelling designed
and constructed in accordance
with Sec. 12.5?
Determine S

S
and S

1
(Sec. 4.1.2 [3.3.1]).
Chart 2.2
Scope of Coverage
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-5
Addition to existing structure
(Sec. 1.2.2 [1.1.2.2]).
Change of use
(Sec. 1.2.3 [1.1.2.3]).
Is addition structurally
independent from existing
structure?
Is any element's seismic force
increased by more than 5% or its
seismic resistance decreased?
Do the affected elements still
comply with the Provisions?
Only addition or alteration
designed as new structure.
Go to Chart 2.4.
Entire structure designed
as new structure.
Go to Chart 2.4.
Change to higher
Seismic Use Group?
Change from Seismic Use
Group I to II and S

DS
<0.3?
No requirements.
Is seismic force on existing
structural elements increased
beyond their design strength?
Such alteration
not permitted.
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
* The Provisions applies to existing structures only in the cases of additions to, changes of use in, and
alterations of such structures.
No
No
Yes
Yes
*
Does alteration increase seismic
forces to or decrease design
strength of existing structural
elements by more than 5 percent?
Alteration of existing
structure (Sec. 1.2.4)
[Sec. 1.1.2.4].
Is the design strength of existing
structural elements required to
resist seismic forces reduced?
New structural elements and new
or relocated nonstructural elements
must be detailed and connected as
required by the Provisions.
No
No
No
Yes
Yes
*
Yes
*
Chart 2.3
Application to Existing Structures
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-6
Determine Seismic Use Group
(Sec. 1.3 [1.2]) and Occupancy
Importance Factor (Sec. 1.4 [1.3]).
Using Spectral Acceleration Maps 1 through 24
(or CD-ROM) [Fig. 3.3-1 through 3.3-14],
determine the Maximum Considered Earthquake
(MCE) spectral response acceleration at short
periods (S

S
) and at 1 second (S

1
).
S

S
0.15 and
S

1
0.04?
Soil properties known in sufficient
detail to determine Site Class?
Classify the site (Sec. 4.1.2.1
through 4.1.2.3) [Sec. 3.5].
Site Class E or F?
Use Site Class D unless authority having
jurisdiction determines that Site Class E
or F could be present at the site.
Assign structure to Seismic Design Category A.
[As a result of the re-write of the Provisions during
the 2003 update cycle, all of the requirements for
Seismic Design Category A appear in Sec. 1.5 and
application is greatly simplified.]
Adjust MCE acceleration parameters
for site class (Sec. 4.1.2.4 [3.3.2]).
Calculate design earthquake acceleration
parameters S

DS
and S

D1
(Sec. 4.1.2.5 [3.3.3]).
Design response spectrum required
for the analysis to be used?
Detached 1- or 2-family
dwelling of light-frame
construction?
Site Class F or
base isolated?
Fulfill site limitation
(Sec. 4.2.2 [1.4.2]).
Perform site-specific evaluation
to determine design response
spectrum (Sec. 4.1.3 [3.4]).
S

1
>0.6 and
base isolated?
[For assignment of Seismic Design Category
and determination of values needed for other
calculations, compute S

DS
, S

D1
, S

MS
, and S

M1

as indicated in Sec. 3.4.5.]
Determine Seismic Design
Category (Sec. 4.2.1 [1.4.1]).
Calculate design
response spectrum
(Sec. 4.1.2.6 [3.3.4]).*
* [Sec. 3.3.4 of the 2003 Provisions defines reduced spectral ordinates for periods greater than T

L
.]
Go to Chart 2.5 for
structural requirements.
Go to Chart 2.22 for architectural,
mechanical, and electrical requirements.
Go to Chart 2.23 for quality
assurance requirements.
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes No
No
Yes
No
Chart 2.4
Basic Requirements
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-7
Use load combinations and
non-earthquake loads from
ASCE 7 (Sec. 5.1 [4.2.2]).
Comply with the stated design basis
(Sec. 5.2.1 [4.2.1]).
Seismic Design
Category A?
Height limits in Table 5.2.2
[4.3-1] apply.
Seismic Design
Category B or C?
Requirements for building height, interaction
effects, deformational compatibility, and
special moment frame continuity
(Sec. 5.2.2.4 [4.3.1.4, 4.5.2, 4.5.3]).
Seismic Design
Category F?
More stringent height limit
(Sec. 5.2.2.5 [4.3.1.6]).
Classify diaphragm flexibility (Sec. 5.2.3.1
[4.3.2.1]). Examine plan and vertical
regularity and meet minimum requirements
for irregular structures (Tables 5.2.3.2 and
5.2.3.3 [4.3-2 and 4.3-3]).
Calculate reliability factor, , and
satisfy limitations for special moment
frame systems (Sec. 5.2.4 [4.3.3]).
(Note that =1.0 for SDC B and C.)
Determine required level of seismic
force analysis (Sec. 5.2.5 [4.4]).
Analyze for minimum lateral
force, F

x =0.01w

x (Sec. 5.2.5.1
[1.5.1]). Go to Chart 2.11.
Go to Chart 2.6
for ELF analysis.
Go to Chart 2.8 for
modal analysis.
No
No
Yes
No
Yes
Seismically isolated?
Go to Chart 2.10.
Yes
Classify the structural framing system and
note R,

0
, and C

d
for later use (Sec.
5.2.2 [4.3.1] and Table 5.2.2 [4.3-1]).
Opt to perform
more involved
analysis?
Go to Chart 2.9 for
response history
analysis.
Yes
No
Yes
[A new "Simplified Design Procedure"
that appears in the Appendix to Chapter 4
may be used in lieu of 2003 Provisions
Chapters 4 and 5 for certain structures.]
Chart 2.5
Structural Design
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-8
Determine total weight, W (Sec. 5.3 [5.2.1]).
Go to Chart 2.11.
Check the first order deformation for stability and
amplify the forces if necessary (Sec. 5.4.6.2 [5.2.6.2]).
Determine the story drifts. A re-analysis based upon
a period larger than the upper limit is permitted for
calculating deformations (Sec. 5.4.6.1 [5.2.6.1]).
To determine the internal forces, perform a linear elastic analysis with an
appropriate distribution of forces within stories due to the relative lateral stiffnesses
of vertical elements and diaphragms (Sec. 5.4.4 [5.2.4]). Include appropriately
amplified (Sec. 5.4.4.3 [5.2.4.3]) inherent (Sec. 5.4.4.1 [5.2.4.1]) and accidental
torsions (Sec. 5.4.4.2 [5.2.4.2]). Calculate the overturning moments for all stories
and apply the permitted reduction for foundations (Sec. 5.4.5 [5.2.5]).
Distribute the base shear to the stories
of the building (Sec. 5.4.3 [5.2.3]).
Determine the seismic response coefficient, C

s, (Sec. 5.4.1
[5.2.1.1]) and the total base shear (Eqn. 5.4.1 [5.2-2]).
Determine fundamental period of vibration for the
building (Sec. 5.4.2 [5.2.2]). Carefully note the upper
limit placed on periods calculated from analytical
models of the structure (Table 5.4.2 [5.2-1]).
Consider
soil-structure-interaction?
(Optional)
Go to Chart 2.7 to
calculate reduced
base shear.
Yes
No
Chart 2.6
Equivalent Lateral Force (ELF) Analysis
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-9
Modal Analysis: Follow SSI procedure
for ELF analysis (Sec. 5.8.2 [5.6.2]) with
these modifications (Sec. 5.8.3 [5.6.3]).
Calculate effective period
using Eq. 5.8.2.1.1-1 [5.6-3].
Point bearing piles? or
Uniform soft soils over a
stiff deposit?
Read foundation damping factor
from Figure 5.8.2.1.2 [5.6-1].
Calculate effective damping using Eq.
5.8.2.1.2-1 [5.6-9]. Effective damping
need not be less than 5 percent of critical.
Calculate reduced base shear, V, per Sec. 5.8.2.1
[5.6-1], which cannot be less than 0.7V.
Revise deflections to include foundation
rotation (Sec. 5.8.2.3 [5.6.2.3]).
Use Eq. 5.8.2.1.2-4 [5.6-10]
to modify foundation
damping factor.
This SSI procedure applies only to the
fundamental mode of vibration (Sec. 5.8.3.1
[5.6.3.1]). Therefore, substitute W

1
for W,
T

1
for T, V

1
for V, etc.
Use Eq. 5.5.4-2 [5.3-2] to calculate W

1
.
Use Eq. 5.8.3.1-2 [5.6-13] to calculate h.
Calculate reduced base shear for
the first mode, V

1
, per Sec.
5.8.3.1 [5.6.3.1], which cannot be
less than 0.7V

1
. Use standard
modal combination techniques
(Sec. 5.8.3.2 [5.6.3.2]).
Yes
No
Return to Chart 2.6. Return to Chart 2.8.
ELF Analysis: Follow this
procedure (Sec. 5.8.2 [5.6.2]).
Calculate the foundation stiffnesses K

y

and K

(Commentary) at the expected

strain level (Table 5.8.2.1.1 [5.6-1]).
Calculate effective gravity load, W (as a
fraction of W), effective height, h (as a
fraction of h), and effective stiffness, k,
of the fixed base structure.
Chart 2.7
Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI)
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-10
Combine modal quantities by either the SRSS or CQC technique*.
Compare base shear to lower limit based upon 85 percent of that
computed using Sec. 5.4 [5.2] with T C

uT

a. Amplify all quantities
if necessary to increase the base shear (Sec. 5.5.7 [5.3.7]).
To determine the internal forces, perform a linear elastic
analysis. Include inherent and accidental torsions (Sec. 5.4.4
[5.2.4]). Amplify torsions (Sec. 5.4.4.3 [5.2.4.3]) that are not
in the dynamic model (Sec. 5.5.8 [5.3.8]). May reduce the
overturning moments at the foundation-soil interface by only
10 percent (Sec. 5.5.9 [5.3.9]).
Check the first order deformations for stability and
amplify the forces if necessary (Sec. 5.5.10 [5.3.10]).
Go to Chart 2.11.
Consider
soil-structure-interaction?
(Optional)
Go to Chart 2.7 to
calculate reduced
base shear.
*As indicated in the text, use of the CQC technique is required where closely spaced periods
in the translational and torsional modes will result in cross-correlation of the modes.
Yes
No
Determine whether a three-dimensional model is
required; identify the appropriate degrees of freedom,
possibly including diaphragm flexibility; and model
elements as directed (Sec. 5.5.1 [5.3.1]). Determine
the number of modes to consider (Sec. 5.5.2 [5.3.2]).
Use linear elastic analysis to determine
periods and mode shapes (Sec. 5.5.3 [5.3.3]).
Determine seismic response coefficient, C

sm,
effective gravity load, W

m, and base shear, V

m, for
each mode (Sec. 5.5.4 [5.3.4]).
Determine story forces, displacements, and drifts in each mode
(Sec. 5.5.5 [5.3.5]). Use statics to determine story shear and
overturning moments in each mode (Sec. 5.5.6 [5.3.6]).
Chart 2.8
Modal Analysis
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-11
Scale analysis results so that the
maximum base shear is
consistent with that from the ELF
procedure (Sec. 5.6.3 [5.4.3]).
Determine response parameters for
use in design as follows. If at least
seven ground motions are analyzed,
may use the average value. If fewer
than seven are analyzed, must use the
maximum value (Sec. 5.6.3 [5.4.3]).
Go to Chart 2.11.
Global modeling requirements are
similar to those for modal analysis.
Modeling of hysteretic behavior of
elements must be consistent with
laboratory test results and expected
material properties (Sec. 5.7.1 [5.5.1]).
Select and scale ground motion
as for linear response history
analysis (Sec. 5.7.2 [5.5.2]).
Analysis results need
not be scaled.
As for linear response history
analysis, use average or
maximum values depending on
number of ground motions
analyzed (Sec. 5.7.3 [5.5.3]).
Subsequent steps of the design process change. For
instance, typical load combinations and the
overstrength factor do not apply (Sec. 5.7.3.1
[5.5.3.1]), member deformations must be considered
explicitly (Sec. 5.7.3.2 [5.5.3.2]), and story drift limits
are increased (Sec. 5.7.3.3 [5.5.3.3]). The design must
be subjected to independent review (Sec. 5.7.4 [5.5.4]).
Nonlinear analyses must directly
include dead loads and not less than
25 percent of required live loads.
An appendix to Chapter 5
contains requirements for the
application of nonlinear static
(pushover) analysis to the design
of new structures.
Linear Response History
Analysis: Follow this
procedure (Sec. 5.6 [5.4]).
Nonlinear Response History
Analysis: Follow this procedure
(Sec. 5.7 [5.5]).
Model structure as
for modal analysis
(Sec. 5.5.1 [5.3.1]).
Select and scale ground motions based on
spectral values in the period range of interest
(Sec. 5.6.2 [5.4.2]), as follows. For 2-D
analysis, the average is not less than the
design spectrum. For 3-D analysis, the
average of the SRSS spectra computed for
each pair of ground motions is not less than
1.3 times the design spectrum.
Chart 2.9
Response History Analysis
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-12
Go to Chart 2.11.
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes Yes
No No
Satisfy detailed requirements for isolation
system (Sec. 13.6.2 [13.2.5]) and structural
system (Sec. 13.6.3 [13.2.6]). Satisfy
requirements for elements of structures and
nonstructural components (Sec. 13.5 [13.2.7]).
Perform design review
(Sec. 13.8 [13.5]).
Satisfy testing
requirements
(Sec. 13.9 [13.6]).
[In the 2003 Provisions, requirements for
structures with damping systems appear
in Chapter 15 (rather than in an appendix
to Chapter 13).]
Do the structure and
isolation system satisfy
the criteria of Section
13.2.5.2 [13.2.4.1]?
Site Class A, B, C, or D?
and
isolation system meets the
criteria of Sec. 13.2.5.2
[13.2.4.1], item 7?
Opt to perform
dynamic analysis?
Opt to perform
time-history analysis?
Perform ELF analysis
(see Chart 2.6) and
satisfy the provisions of
Sec. 13.3.
Perform modal analysis
(see Chart 2.8) and satisfy
the appropriate provisions
of Sec. 13.4.
Perform time-history
analysis as described
in Sec. 13.4.
Chart 2.10
Seismically Isolated Structures
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-13
Go to Chart 2.12.
Combine gravity loads and seismic forces as indicated in
ASCE 7, where the seismic load, E, is defined in Provisions
Sec. 5.2.7 [4.2.2]. Must consider critical loading direction for
each component (Sec. 5.2.5.2 [4.4.2]).
Minimum force effects for connections (Sec. 5.2.6.1.1 [4.6.1.1]) and anchorage
of concrete or masonry walls (Sec. 5.2.6.1.2 [4.6.1.2]). Special requirements
for strength of moment frames in dual systems (Sec. 5.2.2.1 [4.3.1.1]) and
combinations of framing systems (Sec. 5.2.2.2 [4.3.1.2]).
Seismic Design
Category A?
Consideration must be given to P-delta effects (Sec. 5.2.6.2.1 [5.2.6.2]). Limits on
vertical discontinuities (Sec. 5.2.6.2.3 [4.6.1.6]). Minimum force effects for
diaphragms (Sec. 5.2.6.2.6 [4.6.1.9]), bearing walls (Sec. 5.2.6.2.7 [4.6.1.3]),
inverted pendulum structures (Sec. 5.2.6.2.8 [4.6.1.5]), and anchorage of
nonstructural systems (Sec. 5.2.6.2.9 [4.6.1.10]). Special load combinations of
Sec. 5.2.7.1 [4.2.2.2] apply to columns supporting discontinuous walls or frames
(Sec. 5.2.6.2.10 [4.6.1.7]).
Seismic Design
Category B?
Must consider orthogonal effects for some plan irregular structures (Sec. 5.2.5.2.2
[4.4.2.2]). Special load combinations of Sec. 5.2.7.1 [4.2.2.2] apply to collector
elements (Sec. 5.2.6.3.1 [4.6.2.2]). Minimum forces for anchorage of concrete or
masonry walls to flexible diaphragms (Sec. 5.2.6.3.2 [4.6.2.1]) and diaphragms that
are not flexible (Sec. 6.1.3 [6.2.2]).
Seismic Design
Category C?
Orthogonal effects must be considered (Sec. 5.2.5.2.3 [4.4.2.3]). Increased
forces for plan or vertical irregularities (Sec. 5.2.6.4.2 [4.6.3.2]). Vertical
seismic forces must be considered for some horizontal components (Sec.
5.2.6.4.3 [4.6.3.1]). Minimum forces for diaphragms (Sec. 5.2.6.4.4 [4.6.3.4]).
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Go to Chart 2.13. [All requirements for
the structures assigned to Seismic Design
Category A now appear in Sec. 1.5.]
Chart 2.11
Strength Requirements
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-14
Enter with story drifts from the analysis of seismic
force effects. These drifts must include the deflection
amplification factor, C

d
, given in Table 5.2.2 [4.3-1]
(Sec. 5.2.8 [4.5.1]).
Go to Chart 2.13.
Compare with the limits established in Table 5.2.8 [4.5-1].
[In the 2003 Provisions the allowable drift is reduced by
the redundancy factor for systems with moment frames in
Seismic Design Category D, E, or F.]
Separations between adjacent buildings
(including at seismic joints) must be
sufficient to avoid damaging contact.
Chart 2.12
Deformation Requirements
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-15
Continuous diaphragm crossties required. Limit on subdiaphragm
aspect ratio. Special detailing for wood diaphragms, metal deck
diaphragms, and embedded straps (Sec. 5.2.6.3.2 [4.6.2.1]).
Consider effect of diaphragm displacement on attached elements
(Sec. 5.2.6.2.6 [4.5.2]).
Seismic Design
Category C?
Satisfy requirement for deformational
compatibility (Sec. 5.2.2.4.3 [4.5.3]).
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
Seismic Design
Category D?
No
Yes
Certain plan and vertical irregularities not
permitted (Sec. 5.2.6.5.1 [4.3.1.5.1]).
Chart 2.14
Chart 2.15
Chart 2.16
Chart 2.17
Chart 2.18
Chart 2.19
For nonbuilding structures,
go to Chart 2.20. For various
materials, go to these charts:
Steel
Concrete
Precast
Composite
Masonry
Wood
Seismic Design
Category A?
Openings in shear walls and diaphragms must be detailed
(Sec. 5.2.6.2.2 [4.6.1.4]). System redundancy must be considered
(Sec. 5.2.6.2.4 [4.2.1]). Requirements for diaphragm ties, struts,
and connections (Sec. 5.2.6.2.6 [4.6.1.5]) and interconnection of
wall elements (Sec. 5.2.6.2.7 [4.6.1.3]).
Seismic Design
Category B?
Chart 2.13
Design and Detailing Requirements
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-16
Yes
No
No
Yes Seismic Design
Category A, B, or C?
Using a "structural steel system
not specifically designed for
seismic resistance?"
Select an R value from Table
5.2.2 [4.3-1] for the appropriate
steel system.
The system must be designed and
detailed in accordance with the AISC
Seismic as modified in Sec. 8.4 [8.3]
or
Sec. 8.6 [8.4.2] for light-framed,
cold-formed steel wall systems.
From Table 5.2.2
[4.3-1], R =3.
Any of the reference
documents in Sec. 8.1 [8.1.2]
may be used for design.
Sec. 8.5 [8.4.1] modifies the reference standards
for design of cold-formed steel members.
Sec. 8.7 [8.4.4] applies to steel deck diaphragms.
Sec. 8.8 [8.5] applies to steel cables.
[In the 2003 Provisions requirements are added
for buckling-restrained braced frames (Sec. 8.6)
and special steel plate shear walls (Sec. 8.7).]
Go to Chart 2.21.
Chart 2.14
Steel Structures
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-17
Modifications to ACI 318 for load combinations and
resistance factors, permitted reinforcement, axial strength
of columns, diaphragm connectors, structural walls, and
coupling beams (Sec. 9.1.1 [9.2.2]). [Many of the
requirements in this chapter of the 2003 Provisions are
different due to changes made in ACI 318-02 and the
introduction of new systems.]
Design of anchors (Sec. 9.2)
[ACI 318-02 Appendix D].
Classification of shear
walls (Sec. 9.3 [9.2.1]).
Seismic Design
Category A?
Limit on use of ordinary moment
frames (Sec. 9.5.1 [9.3.1]).
Seismic Design
Category B?
Limits on moment frame and shear wall systems,
discontinuous members, and plain concrete.
Requirements for anchor bolts in the tops of
columns (Sec. 9.6 [9.4]). [Some of these
requirements are removed in the 2003 Provisions
as they are now in ACI 318-02.]
Seismic Design
Category C?
Moment frames to be "special"; shear walls to
be "special reinforced." Detailing for
deflection compatibility (Sec. 9.7 [9.5]). [All
of these requirements now appear in ACI
318-02 or in the basic requirements of the
2003 Provisions.]
Design in accordance with ACI 318
(Sec. 9.4 [1.5]). [All requirements
for the structures assigned to Seismic
Design Category A now appear in
Sec. 1.5.]
Go to Chart 2.21.
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
Chart 2.15
Concrete Structures
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-18
General modifications to ACI 318 to include additional notation and definitions
(Sec. 9.1.1.1 and 9.1.1.2) and new sections. [All of the requirements on this
chart now appear in ACI 318-02. The 2003 Provisions add some requirements
for intermediate and special precast walls (Sec. 9.2.2.4 and 9.2.2.5).]
Requirements for layout of seismic-force-resisting
system: diaphragm strength, aspect ratios, and number
of moment resisting frame bays. Requirements for
gravity beam-to-column connections: design force and
connection characteristics (Sec. 9.1.1.4).
Requirements for strong
connections (Sec. 9.1.1.12):
location, anchorage and
splices, design forces,
column-to-column and
column-face connections
(ACI 318 new Sec. 21.11.5).
System must comply with all
applicable requirements of
monolithic concrete
construction for resisting
seismic forces (Sec. 9.1.1.12)
and connections (either wet
or dry) must satisfy the
requirements of ACI 318
new Sec. 21.11.3.1.
Must demonstrate suitability
of system by analysis and
substantiating experimental
evidence based on cyclic,
inelastic testing (Sec.
9.1.1.12) as indicated in
ACI ITG/T1.1 and the
additional items in ACI 318
new Sec. 21.11.4.
Yes No
Yes
No Yes
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
Connections must satisfy ACI 318
new Sec. 21.11.6 (Sec. 9.1.1.12).
Precast gravity load
carrying system?
Diaphragm composed
of precast elements?
Go to Chart 2.21.
Topping slabs must satisfy ACI
318. An appendix is provided for
untopped precast diaphragms.
Precast
seismic-force-resisting
system?
Emulates monolithic
reinforced concrete
construction?
Ductile
connections?
Chart 2.16
Precast Concrete Structures
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-19
Yes
No
Select an R value from Table 5.2.2 [4.3-1]
for the appropriate composite system.
Seismic Design
Category A, B, or C?
Go to Chart 2.21.
The system must be designed and detailed in
accordance with the AISC Seismic Parts I and II.
[The 2003 Provisions make extensive
modifications to Part II of AISC Seismic.]
Must provide "substantiating
evidence" based on cyclic testing
(Sec. 10.2 [10.4]).
Chart 2.17
Composite Steel and Concrete Structures
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-20
Must construct in accordance
with ACI 530 and use materials
in conformance with ACI 530.1
Seismic Design
Category A?
Seismic Design
Category B?
Seismic Design
Category C?
Seismic Design
Category D?
Empirical design (per
Chapter 9 of ACI 530)
may be used.
Go to Chart 2.21.
Special requirements for screen
walls and cavity walls, limits on
certain materials, and rules for wall
reinforcement and connection to
masonry columns. Ordinary plain
masonry and ordinary reinforced
masonry shear walls not
permitted(Sec. 11.3.7).
Limits on materials and rules for
wall reinforcement and
concrete/masonry interface.
Minimum wall thickness, column
reinforcement, and column
minimum dimensions. Detailed
plain masonry and intermediate
reinforced masonry shear walls not
permitted (Sec. 11.3.8).
Requirements for grout,
hollow units, and stack bond
(Sec. 11.3.9).
Material properties (Sec. 11.3.10),
section properties (Sec. 11.3.11),
and anchor bolts (Sec. 11.3.12).
Reinforcement detailing
(Sec. 11.4).
Strength and deformation
requirements (Sec. 11.5), flexure
and axial loads (Sec. 11.6), and
shear (Sec. 11.7).
Special requirements for beams
(Sec. 11.8), columns (Sec. 11.9),
and shear walls (Sec. 11.10).
Special moment frames of masonry
(Sec. 11.11).
Glass unit masonry and masonry
veneer (Sec. 11.12).
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
[A significant portion of 2003 Provisions Chapter 11 has been
replaced by a reference to ACI 530-02. The updated chapter,
however, does not result in significant technical changes, as ACI
530-02 is in substantial agreement with the strength design
methodology contained in the 2000 Provisions.]
Chart 2.18
Masonry Structures
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-21
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No No
No No
No
No
Satisfy an exception of
Sec. 1.2.1 [1.1.2.1]?
Seismic Design
Category A?
Go to Chart 2.21
Seismic Design
Category B, C, or D?
Seismic Use
Group I?
Satisfy an exception of
Sec. 1.2.1 [1.1.2.1]?
Satisfy the Section 12.5
requirements for conventional
light-frame construction?
Unblocked diaphragms not
permitted. Sheathing applied
directly to framing. Shear wall
resistance reduced for structures
with concrete or masonry
walls(Sec. 12.8 [12.2.2]).
Design and construct using any
applicable materials and procedures
in the reference documents. If satisfy
Sec. 12.5, deemed to comply with
Sec. 5.2.6.1 [1.5].
Conform to requirements for engineered wood
construction (Sec. 12.3) and diaphragms and shear
walls (Sec. 12.4). [A significant portion of 2003
Provisions Chapter 12, including the diaphragm and
shear wall tables, has been replaced by a reference to
the AF&PA, ASD/LRFD Supplement, Special Design
Provisions for Wind and Seismic. The updated
chapter, however, does not result in significant
technical changes, as the Supplement is in substantial
agreement with the 2000 Provisions.]
Chart 2.19
Wood Structures
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-22
Use applicable strength and other design criteria from
other sections of the Provisions.
or
Use approved standards. Reduced seismic forces for
use with allowable stress standards are defined.
Nonbuilding structure
supported by another
structure?
Select R value and
calculate design forces
per Sec. 14.4 [14.1.5].
Determine Importance Factor and Seismic Use Group
(Sec. 14.5.1.2 [14.2.1]). Calculate seismic weight (Sec.
14.5.3 [14.2.6]) and fundamental period (Sec. 14.5.4
[14.2.9]). May be exempted from drift limits on the basis
of rational analysis (Sec. 14.5.5 [14.2.11]).
Classify system, determine
importance factor, and calculate
design forces per Sec. 14.5 [14.2.4].
Dynamic response
similar to that of
building structures?
Go to Chart 2.21.
Structures Similar to Buildings
Specific provisions for: pipe racks; steel storage
racks; electrical power generating facilities;
structural towers for tanks and vessels; and piers
and wharves (Sec. 14.6 [14.3]).
Structures Not Similar to Buildings
Specific provisions for: earth retaining structures;
tanks and vessels; stacks and chimneys;
amusement structures; special hydraulic
structures; and secondary containment systems
(Sec. 14.7 [14.4]). (Appendix contains provisions
for: electrical transmission, substation, and
distribution structures; telecommunication towers;
and buried structures.) [In the 2003 Provisions
the requirements for electrical structures and
telecommunication towers have been removed
since the corresponding national standards have
been updated appropriately.]
Yes No
Yes
No
Chart 2.20
Nonbuilding Structures
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-23
Requirements for: report
concerning potential site hazards;
ties between spread footings; and
reinforcement of piles. Design
of piles must consider curvatures
due to both free-field soil strains
and structure response. (Sec. 7.5).
Go to Chart 2.22.
Strength and detailing of
foundation components must
satisfy material chapter
requirements (Sec. 7.2.1).
Yes
No
Yes
No
Requirement for soil capacity (Sec.
7.2.2). [In the 2003 Provisions Chapter 7
includes a strength design method for
foundations and guidance for the explicit
modeling of foundation load-deformation
characteristics.]
Seismic Design
Category A or B?
Requirements for: report of seismic soil
investigation; pole type structures; ties
between piles or piers; and reinforcement
of piles (Sec. 7.4).
Seismic Design
Category C?
Chart 2.21
Foundations
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-24
Seismic Design
Category A?
Go to Chart 2.23.
Satisfy requirements for
construction documents
(Sec. 6.1.7 [6.2.9]).
Note component
exemptions in
Sec. 6.1 [6.1.1].
Must consider both flexibility and strength for components and
support structures [Sec. 6.2.4]. Avoid collateral failures by
considering functional and physical interrelationship of
components (Sec. 6.1 [6.2.3]). Components require positive
attachment to the structure without reliance on gravity-induced
friction (Sec. 6.1.2 [6.2.5]).
Determine the periods of mechanical and electrical components (Sec. 6.3.3
[6.4.1]). Select a

p
and R

p
values from Tables 6.2.2 and 6.3.2 [6.3-1 and 6.4-1]
and component importance factors (Sec. 6.1.5 [6.2.2]). Calculate design
seismic forces per Sec. 6.1.3 [6.2.6]. Calculate vertical load effects per Sec.
5.2.7 [6.2.6]. (Don't forget to consider nonseismic horizontal loads.) Note
additional requirements for component anchorage (Sec. 6.1.6 [6.2.8]).
Compute seismic relative displacements (Sec. 6.1.4 [6.2.7])
and accommodate such displacements (Sec. 6.2.3 and 6.3.5
[6.3.1 and 6.4.4]).
Architectural Components
Specific provisions for: exterior nonstructural
wall elements and connections; out-of-plane
bending; suspended ceilings; access floors;
partitions; and steel storage racks
(Sec. 6.2 [6.3]).
Mechanical and Electrical Components
Specific provisions for: component
certification; utility and service lines; storage
tanks; HVAC ductwork; piping systems;
boilers and pressure vessels; mechanical and
electrical equipment, attachments, and
supports; alternative seismic qualification
methods; and elevator design (Sec. 6.3 [6.4]).
Yes
No
Chart 2.22
Architectural, Mechanical, and Electrical Components
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-25
Seismic-force-resisting system
assigned to Seismic Design
Category C, D, E, or F? or
Designated seismic system in
structure assigned to Seismic
Design Category D, E, or F?
Satisfy exceptions
in Sec. 3.2 [2.2]?
QA plan not
required.
Registered design professional must prepare
QA plan (Sec. 3.2.1 [2.2.1]) and affected
contractors must submit statements of
responsibility (Sec. 3.2.2 [2.2.2]).
Satisfy testing and
inspection requirements
in the reference standards
(Ch. 8 through 14).
Done.
Reporting and compliance procedures
are given (Sec. 3.6 [2.6]).
Registered design
professional must
perform structural
observations.
Seismic Use Group II or III? or
Height >75 ft? or
Seismic Design Category E or F
and more than two stories?
Seismic Design
Category C?
Special inspection is required for some
aspects of the following: deep foundations,
reinforcing steel, concrete, masonry, steel
connections, wood connections, cold-formed
steel connections, selected architectural
components, selected mechanical and
electrical components, isolator units, and
energy dissipation devices (Sec. 3.3 [2.3]).
Special testing is required for some aspects
of the following: reinforcing and prestressing
steel, welded steel, mechanical and electrical
components and mounting systems (Sec. 3.4
[2.4]), and seismic isolation systems
(Sec. 13.9 [13.6]).
No
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
Chart 2.23
Quality Assurance
Table 2-1 Navigating Among the 2000 and 2003 NEHRP Recommended Provisions
and ASCE 7
ASCE 7
Section
NEHRP 2000
Section
NEHRP 2003
Section Topic
Chapter 11 SEISMIC DESIGN CRITERIA
11.1 1.1, 1.2 1.1 General
11.2 2.1 1.1.4 Definitions
11.3 2.2 1.1.5 Notation
11.4 4.1 3.3 Seismic Ground Motion Values
11.5 1.3, 1.4 1.2, 1.3 Importance Factor and Occupancy Category
11.6 4.2 1.4 Seismic Design Category
11.7 5.2.6.1 1.5 Design Requirements for Seismic Design Category A
11.8 4.2, 7.4, 7.5 1.4.2, 7.4, 7.5 Geologic hazards and Geotechnical Investigation
Chapter 12 5 4, 5 SEISMIC DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDING
STRUCTURES
12.1 5.2 4.2.1 Structural Design Basis
12.2 5.2.2 4.3.1 Structural System Selection
12.3 5.2.3, 5.2.6,
5.2.4
4.3.2 Diaphragm Flexibility, Configuration Irregularities and
Redundancy
12.4 5.2.7, 5.2.6 4.2.2 Seismic Load Effects and Combinations
12.5 5.2.5 4.4.2 Direction of Loading
12.6 5.2.5 4.4.1 Analysis Procedure Selection
12.7 5.2, 5.6.2 Modeling Criteria
12.8 5.5 5.2 Equivalent Lateral Force Procedures
12.9 5.6 5.3 Modal Response Spectrum Analysis
12.10 5.2.6 4.6 Diaphragms, Chords and Collectors
12.11 5.2.6 4.6 Structural Walls and Their Anchorage
12.12 5.2.8 4.5 Drift and Deformation
12.13 7 7 Foundation Design
12.14 5.4 4 Alt. Simplified Alternative Structural Design Criteria for
Simple Bearing Wall of Building Frame System
Chapter 13 SEISMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR NONSTRUCTURAL
COMPONENTS
13.1 6.1 6.1 General
13.2 6.1 6.2 General Design Requirements
13.3 6.1.3, 6.1.4 6.2 Seismic Demands on Nonstructural Components
13.4 6.1.2 6.2 Nonstructural Component Anchorage
13.5 6.2 6.3 Architectural Components
13.6 6.3 6.4 Mechanical and Electrical Components
Chapter 14 MATERIAL SPECIFIC SEISMIC DESIGN AND
DETAILING REQUIREMENTS
14 Scope
14.1 8 8 Steel
14.2 9 9 Concrete
14.3 10 10 Composite Steel and Concrete Structures
14.4 11 11 Masonry
14.5 12 12 Wood
Chapter 2, Guide to Use of the Provisions
2-27
Chapter 15 14 14 SEISMIC DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR
NONBUILDING STRUCTURES
15.1 14.1 14.1 General
15.2 14.2,14.3 14.1.2 Reference Documents
15.3 14.4 14.1.5 Nonbuilding Structures Supported by Other Structures
15.4 14.5 14.2 Structural Design Requirements
15.5 14.6 14.3 Nonbuilding Structures Similar to Buildings
15.6 14.7 14.4 General Requirements for Nonbuilding Structures Not
Similar to Buildings
15.7 14.7.3 14.4.7 Tanks and Vessels
Chapter 16 SEISMIC RESPONSE HISTORY PROCEDURES
16.1 5.7 5.4 Linear Response History Analysis
16.2 5.8 5.5 Nonlinear Response History Procedure
Chapter 17 13 13 SEISMIC DESDIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR
SEISMICALLY ISOLATED STRUCTURES
17.1 13.1 13.1 General
17.2 13.5, 13.6 13.2 General design Requirements
17.3 13.4.4 13.2.3 Ground Motion for Isolated Systems
17.4 13.2.5 13.2.4 Analysis Procedure Selection
17.5 13.3 13.3 Equivalent Lateral Force Procedure
17.6 13.4 13.4 Dynamic Analysis Procedures
17.7 13.8 13.5 Design Review
17.8 13.9 13.6 Testing
Chapter 18 13A 15 SEISMIC DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR
STRUCTURES WITH DAMPING SYSTEMS
18.1 13A.1 15.1 General
18.2 13A.2, 13A.8 15.2 General Design Requirements
18.3 13A.6 15.3 Nonlinear Procedures
18.4 13A.5 15.4 Response Spectrum Procedure
18.5 13A.4 15.5 Equivalent Lateral Force Procedure
18.6 13A.3 15.6 Damped Response Modification
18.7 13A.7 15.7 Seismic Load Conditions and Acceptance
18.8 13A.9 15.8 Design Review
18.9 13A.10 15.9 Testing
Chapter 19 SOIL STRUCTURE INTERACTION FOR SEISMIC
DESIGN
19.1 5.8.1 5.6.1 General
19.2 5.8.2 5.6.2 Equivalent Lateral Force Procedure
19.3 5.8.3 5.6.3 Modal Analysis Procedure
Chapter 20 SITE CLASSIFICATION PROCEDURE FOR SEISMIC
DESIGN
20.1 4.1 3.5 Site Classification
20.2 4.1 3.5 Site Response Analysis for Site Class F Soil
20.3 4.1 3.5 Site Class Definitions
20.4 4.1 3.5 Definitions of Site Class Parameters
FEMA 451, NEHRP Recommended Provisions: Design Examples
2-28
Chapter 21 SITE-SPECIFIC GROUND MOTION PROCEDURES
FOR SEISMIC DESIGN
21.1 4.1 3.4 Site Response Analysis
21.2 4.1 3.4 Ground Motion Hazard Analysis
21.3 4.1 3.4 Design Response Spectrum
21.4 4.1 3.4 Design Acceleration Parameters
Chapter 22 4.1 3.3 SEISMIC GROUND MOTION AND LONG PERIOD
TRANSITION MAPS
Chapter 23 SEISMIC DESIGN REFERENCE DOCUMENTS
23.1 Consensus Standards and Other Reference Documents
11A 3 2 QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS
11A.1 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 Quality Assurance
11A.2 3.4 2.4 Testing
11A.3 3.5 2.5 Structural Observations
11A.4 3.6 2.6 Reporting and Compliance Procedures
11B EXISTING BUILDING PROVISIONS
11B.1 1.2.1 1.1.2 Scope
11B.2 1.2.2.1 1.1.2.2 Structurally Independent Additions
11B.3 1.2.2.2 1.1.2.2 Structurally Dependent Additions
11B.4 1.2.4 1.1.2.4 Alterations
11B.5 1.2.3 1.1.2.3 Change of Use