Application of Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings in Metro Manila, Philippines

Abstract

— Rapid Visual Screeningis acost-effectiveprocedure in evaluating the safety of high-rise and midrise buildings in the City of Manila and categorizing them as to the level of risk that they may bring aboutif
there are earthquakes. The modified form of ATC was used to categorize these buildings to low, medium
and highrisk buildings. The categorization done in this study could be a useful toolfor city and DPWH
officialsto determine which of the buildings will be attended first for detailed seismic evaluation in the
future and be able to strengthen these buildingsor do some other technical procedures for buildings that are
found hazardous in times of earthquakes. The final output of this study which is the earthquake hazard
mapreflects the categorization of the buildings depending on their level of risks if ever strong ground
shakings occur. Local government units and agenciesthat are concerned on earthquake mitigation may
implement this process to start their program on disaster mitigation.