Ottawa's infrastructure is facing a hidden hazard: common suspended ceilings that could pose a significant risk during earthquakes. Carleton University researchers are breaking things to build them better, focusing on the often-overlooked non-structural components of buildings. These components, like HVAC systems, gas lines, and communication cables, are susceptible to damage during intense shaking, potentially causing injuries and disruption. The lab's 'shaking table' tests these elements under simulated earthquake conditions, revealing the vulnerability of suspended ceilings. These ceilings, typically found in office buildings and schools, can fall and become falling hazards, hindering evacuation efforts. The research is particularly relevant in Ottawa, where earthquakes are less common than on the West Coast, but the potential impact is still significant. The Ottawa Valley, up to Montreal, is in a moderate seismic zone, and the last major earthquake in the area was in 2010, lasting 30 seconds and measured at 5.0 on the Richter scale. The study aims to improve building designs, considering the potential impacts of earthquakes, and to enhance existing structures to protect people, save money, and increase societal resilience. This research highlights the importance of understanding and addressing the vulnerabilities of non-structural building components in earthquake-prone areas, even in regions where earthquakes are not frequent.
