Commercial Property
Owner’s Guide to
Earthquake Safety
State of California
Gavin Newsom
Governor
Published by the California Seismic Safety Commission
SSC No. 22-01
2022 EDITION
The Commercial Property Owner’s Guide
to Earthquake Safety was developed and
published by the California Seismic Safety
Commission. It is distributed under the
provisions of the Library Distribution Act and
Government Code Section 11096.*
Copyright 2022 by the California Seismic Safety Commission.
All rights reserved.
Legislation
This guide has been developed and adopted by the
California Seismic Safety Commission as required by
Business and Professions Code Section 10147.
California Seismic Safety Commission
2945 Ramco St. #195
West Sacramento, CA 95691
Download an online copy at
http://ssc.ca.gov/forms_pubs
Cover photo: Building damaged by the 1994 Northridge earthquake,
U.S. Geological Survey
*Disclaimer: The effects, descriptions, recommendations and suggestions included
in this Guide are intended to improve general earthquake preparedness; however,
they do not guarantee the safety of an individual or a structure. The California
Seismic Safety Commission is responsible for the content of this Guide. The State
of California, the California Seismic Safety Commission, and all contributors to
this document assume no liability for any injury, death, property damage, loss of
revenue, or any other damages incurred by any person as a result of an earthquake.
For specic recommendations regarding your commercial property, consult a
professional for guidance.
Effective September 1, 2022, the 2022 edition of the
Commercial Property Owner’s Guide to Earthquake Safety
replaces the 2006 edition.
USING THIS GUIDE
PAGE
Selling or Buying
Commercial Property............... 4
Earthquake Hazards in
California ................................. 6
Commercial Property
Earthquake Risks &
the Disclosure Report ............ 13
Tips for a Successful
Retrot................................... 26
Financial Resources ............... 30
Earthquake Safety Tips.......... 32
Other Information.................. 35
Earthquake
related losses in
California since
1971
$
55
+
BILLION
Estimated
commercial/
industrial direct
and indirect
losses in the
1994 Northridge
earthquake
$
21
+
BILLION
California Seismic Safety Commission
Introduction
EARTHQUAKES ARE
INEVITABLE IN CALIFORNIA.
They can occur at any time and without warning.
They can be extremely destructive and even deadly.
As a current or future owner of commerical
property*, you should be aware of the risks—
potentially considerable and catastrophic—that
earthquakes pose to your property and its contents
and to the safety of its occupants.
THIS GUIDE contains information that could help you
prevent injuries, save lives, and avoid costly property
damage from earthquakes. It provides information on:
• The most common earthquake-related hazards that
could damage commercial property
• How to identify and then x potential structural and
non-structural risks
• How to nd more information on earthquake safety
If you sell commerical property, this Guide also will help
you meet certain requirements under California law.
There are no guarantees of safety during earthquakes, but
properly constructed and strengthened buildings are less
likely to collapse or be damaged during earthquakes. The
California Seismic Safety Commission advises you to act on
the suggestions outlined in this Guide and make yourself,
others, and your property safer.
* In this Guide, ”Commerical property” refers to both commercial buildings and
residential buildings with ve or more dwelling units.
PAGE 3
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Selling or Buying
Commercial Property:
Requirements &
Recommendations
SELLING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
If you are selling a building built before 1975 that has
precast (tilt-up) concrete or masonry walls (reinforced or
unreinforced) and wood-framed oors or roofs, California
law* requires you to:
• Properly strap the water heater(s).
• Give the buyer a copy of this Guide “as soon as practical before
the transfer” (Government Code, sections 8893.2 and 8875.6).
If you sell your property through a real estate broker or agent, it
is recommended that you give the agent, as soon as practical,
the completed “Commercial Property Earthquake Risk Disclosure
Report” (see page 13). The agent then can give the booklet and
disclosure report to the buyer.
Keep a copy of all documentation signed by the buyer as
evidence that you complied with the requirements.
Under the law, you are NOT required to:
• Remove siding, drywall, or plaster to complete the
disclosure report.
• Hire someone to evaluate your building or to complete the
disclosure report. You may seek the help of a certied commercial
property inspector or a licensed contractor, architect, or engineer.
• Mitigate the risks before selling your property; however, making
the improvements could increase your property‘s value.
*A summary of the relevant California laws related to seismic
safety is included at the end of this Guide (pages 36–37).
PAGE 4
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 5
BUYING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
Before you agree to buy commercial property, you should consider the
following:
• Have a certied commercial property inspector, licensed building
contractor, engineer, or architect inspect the property and give an
opinion on existing earthquake risks and the estimated cost to
strengthen the building.
• Check the location of the property to determine if it is in an Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zone or an area susceptible to landslides, liquefaction,
or tsunami. A licensed geotechnical engineer and/or engineering
geologist can help you answer these questions and check the stability of
the foundation and the ground under the building.
• Check with the local building department to determine if local ordinances
require seismic retrots for your type of building.
• Negotiate the cost of any proposed repairs with the seller. Remember, the
investment in strengthening a building will most likely be far less than the
costs to repair a building following a major earthquake.
Property Tax Exclusion
Under California law (Revenue and Tax Code, Section 74.5), a property
owner can implement seismic-strengthening measures without a property tax
reassessment. To receive the exclusion, you must have the work approved
by the local building department and le a claim form with your county tax
assessor.
Earthquake Insurance
Typically, commercial property insurance does not include earthquake
coverage. A property owner may purchase a separate earthquake policy.
Information on earthquake insurance is on page 31.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Is your home
near an active
earthquake
fault or an ar
See the maps on
pages 10 & 11.
ea
prone to severe
shaking?
Is your building
near an active
earthquake
fault or an area
prone to severe
shaking?
See the maps on
pages 10 &11.
Earthquake Hazards
KNOW YOUR PROPERTY’S RISKS
Earthquakes occur in California every day. As a commercial
property owner, you should know if your property is in an area that
is more prone to earthquakes or if the geology or soil conditions
of your community present greater risk during an earthquake.
The more you know, the better you are able to take appropriate
precautions to protect yourself, others, and your property.
Requirements under the law: If you are selling your property,
no matter its age, you must disclose to buyers information about
natural hazards that can affect the property, including ood, re,
and earthquake hazards.
The most common earthquake-related natural hazards are
ground shaking, fault ruptures, landslides, liquefaction, and
tsunami. In addition, earthquake damage to a dam can be a
hazard to “downstream” properties.
Detailed hazard location maps and information are available
through these online resources:
• California Department of Conservation:
www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs
• California Ofce of Emergency Services:
www.myhazards.caloes.ca.gov
PAGE 6
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 7
Earthquake Hazards
GROUND SHAKING
U.S. Geological Survey
In California, ground shaking causes 99% of earthquake property damage.
Properties in areas near large active faults are more likely to feel severe
shaking—and experience damage—than properties in other areas of the state.
FAULT RUPTURE
Ross W. Boulanger
A strong earthquake can
cause two sides of a fault
to suddenly slide by one
another. Even a relatively
minor fault rupture can
cause foundation and
structural damage requiring
expensive repairs.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Earthquake Hazards
LANDSLIDE
Earthquake shaking can be strong enough to cause soil and
Siang Tan, CGS
rock on a hillside to slide down the slope. A landslide can rip
apart buildings at the top of the slope and also crush buildings
at the bottom of the slope.
LIQUEFACTION
C.E. Meyer, U.S. Geological Survey
Strong ground shaking can cause liquefaction—excess pore water pressure that
reduces the soil’s ability to support structures. Liquefaction can cause structures
to tilt or collapse.
PAGE 8
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 9
Earthquake Hazards
TSUNAMI
California’s coastal areas are prone to damage from tsunami—a series of large
National Oceanographic and
Atmospheric Administration, 1964
Is your
building at risk
of a tsunami?
Check with your
County’s ofce of
emergency services.
ocean waves caused by an underwater earthquake or landslide. Tsunami waves
can travel a great distance and cause ooding or wash away structures in low-lying
areas along the shore, in and along harbors, and along the banks of rivers. Tsunamis
generated by the 1964 Alaskan earthquake (magnitude 9.2) and the 2011 Japan
earthquake (magnitude 9.0) caused property damage and loss of life in California.
DAM FAILURE
A very strong earthquake could damage a dam, resulting
E. V. Leyendecker,
U.S. Geological
Survey, 1971
Is your bulding
near a dam?
Check with your
County’s ofce of
emergency services
for a dam inundation
map, which shows the
location of major dams
and areas that could
ood in the event of a
dam failure.
in sudden and devastating ooding of nearby buildings.
The 1971 San Fernando earthquake damaged the Lower
San Fernando Dam, which sits less than half-mile above
the neighborhoods of the San Fernando Valley in southern
California. The risk of an aftershock forced the three-day
evacuation of an 11-square-mile area.
BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY
If your property is in a low-lying coastal area or an area near a dam
(dam inundation zone), know where to evacuate to higher ground and
be prepared to evacuate immediately after an earthquake.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Expected
long-term
average
earthquake
damage in
California
$
3
+
BILLION
PER YEAR
Earthquake Shaking Potential
for California
This map shows the relative intensity of ground shaking in
California from anticipated future earthquakes and signicant
earthquakes that have occurred since the Great 1857
magnitude 7.9 Fort Tejon earthquake. Although the greatest
hazard is in areas of highest intensity as shown on the map,
no region is immune from potential earthquake damage.
EARTHQUAKE MAGNITUDE
M 5.6–6.5
M 6.6–7.0
M 7.1–7.9
EUREKA, 1980
EUREKA, 1954
CAPE MENDOCINO,
1992
SANTA ROSA, 1969
SOUTH NAPA, 2014
SAN FRANCISCO, 1906
MORGAN HILL, 1984
LOMA PRIETA, 1989
COALINGA, 1983
SAN SIMEON, 2003
SANTA BARBARA, 1925
SAN FERNANDO, 1971
NORTHRIDGE, 1994
SIERRA MADRE, 1991
WHITTIER NARROWS, 1987
LONG BEACH, 1933
SUPERSTITION HILLS, 1987
IMPERIAL VALLER, 1940
IMPERIAL VALLEY, 1979
EL MAYOR-CUCAPAH, 2010
OROVILLE, 1975
TAHOE, 1966
WINTERS/VACAVILLE, 1892
OWENS VALLEY, 1872
MAMMOTH LAKES, 1980
CHALFANT VALLEY, 1986
RIDGECREST, 2019
BIG BEAR, 1992
FORT TEJON, 1857
HECTOR MINE, 1999
KERN COUNTY, 1952
LANDERS, 1992
PALM SPRINGS,
1986
Level of Earthquake Hazard
These regions are near faults and
will on average experience stronger
earthquake shaking more frequently.
This intense shaking can damage
even strong, modern buildings.
These regions are distant from known
faults and will experience lower levels
of shaking less frequently. In most
earthquakes, only weaker, masonry
buildings would be damaged.
However, very infrequent earthquakes
could still cause strong shaking here.
Water
Increasing
Intensity
Source: California Geological Survey and U.S. Geological Survey
PAGE 10
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 11
Signicant Historical Earthquakes and
Their ShakeMaps
The ShakeMaps (insets) show areas of moderate-to-heavy ground shaking in
four historical earthquakes.
I II-III IV V VI VII VIII IX X+
1906 M 7.8 San Francisco
1992 M 7.2 Petrolia
1989 M 6.9 Loma Prieta
1994 M 6.7 Northridge
ShakeMap Explanation
EARTHQUAKE MAGNITUDE
M 5.6–6.5
M 6.6–7.0
M 7.1–7.9
Source: USGS
IN THIS SECTION
PAGE
Completing the Commercial
Earthquake Risk Disclosure
Report.................................... 13
Identifying and Disclosing
Earthquake Risks.................... 14
Water Heaters ...........................14
Wall Anchorage.........................15
Unreinforced Masonry Walls .....16
Pre-1980 Concrete Buildings ....18
Steel-Frame Buildings ...............19
“Soft”-Story or
Open-Front Design ...................20
Exterior Cladding & Signage ....21
Other Structural &
Non-Structural Risks ..................22
You are not required to remove
siding, drywall, or plaster or to
hire an inspector to determine the
answer to a question. Also, you are
not required to x or retrot your
property before you sell.
Commercial Property
Earthquake Risks & the
Disclosure Report
Earthquakes in California can occur at any time and without
warning. To prevent injuries and avoid costly property damage,
property owners should determine the potential for earthquake
risks and then retrot or upgrade these conditions. If not
corrected, these risks can lead to:
• Severe property damage (foundation, oors, walls, windows)
• Broken utilities, leading to re, water damage, and spread
of toxins
• Personal injuries
• Loss of business contents and business interruption
Under State law, a seller of commercial property must give the
buyer a copy of this Guide “as soon as practical before the
transfer” if the property was built before 1975 and has precast
(tilt-up) concrete or masonry walls (reinforced or unreinforced)
and wood-frame oors or roof.
A seller also should provide a Commercial Property Earthquake
Risk Disclosure Report (page 13) for a building with any of the
following*: Precast (tilt-up) concrete or reinforced masonry
walls and wood-frame oors or roof (pre-1975); unreinforced
masonry; concrete buildings (pre-1980); “soft”- or weak-story
(open) design; steel-frame construction (pre-1995).
(See pages 15–20.)
To complete the report, answer each question to the best of
your knowledge. For questions 1–7, use “Yes” if the building is
protected from the risk imposed by earthquakes; use “No” if
the building—or a portion of the building—is at risk.
* The Seismic Safety Commission believes property owners of buildings of types that have
historically proven hazardous in earthquakes have a duty to inform foreseeable victims.
(The Right to Know: Disclosure of Seismic Hazards in Buildings, CSSC 92-03, 1992)
PAGE 12
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Commercial Property Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report
(2022 Edition)
Name APN
Street Address Year Built
City County Zip Code
Answer these questions to the best of your knowledge. If any of questions 1–7 are answered “No,” or if either question
8 or 9 is answered “Yes,” your property is likely to have an elevated/disclosable earthquake risk. If you do not have actual
knowledge as to whether these risks exist, answer “Don’t Know.” Questions answered “Don’t Know” may indicate a need for
further evaluation. If your property does not have the feature, answer “Doesn’t Apply.” If you corrected one or more of these
risks, describe the work on a separate page. The page numbers in the right-hand column indicate where in this guide you can
nd information on each of these features.
Doesn’t Don’t See
Yes No
Apply Know Page
1. Are water heater(s) braced, strapped, or anchored to resist falling
14
during an earthquake?
2. If the building has precast (tilt-up) concrete or masonry walls (reinforced
or unreinforced) with wood-frame oors or roof: Are walls adequately
15
anchored to oors and roofs?
3. If building walls are of unreinforced masonry:
a. Are these walls and parapets strengthened?
16
b. If load-bearing walls have not been strengthened, and the building
17
is in Seismic Zone 4: Have warning signs been posted?
4. If the building is a pre-1980 concrete building: Do walls or columns
18
have adequate steel reinforcement?
5. If the building is a pre-1995 building with steel-moment framing: Has it
19
been inspected for fractures in welds in or near steel connections?
6. If the building has a soft- or weak-story or open-front design: Has it been
20
adequately strengthened?
7. Is exterior cladding and signage adequately anchored?
21
A “Yes” answer on Questions 8 and/or 9 could indicate that the property is in a location prone to earthquake damage.
More information is available at www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/geohazards/eq-zapp.
8. Is the building in an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone (an area prone
6
to fault rupture)?
9. Is the building in a Seismic Hazard Zone (zone identied as susceptible
6
to liquefaction or landslides)?
As seller of the property described herein, I have answered the questions above to the best of my knowledge in an effort to
disclose fully any potential earthquake risks it may have.
EXECUTED BY
Seller Seller Date
I acknowledge receipt of this Disclosure Report, completed and signed by the seller. I understand that if the seller has
answered “No” to one or more questions 1–7 or “Yes” to question 8 or 9, or if the seller has indicated a lack of knowledge,
there may be one or more earthquake risks that could impact this property.
Buyer Buyer Date
PAGE 13
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Item 1
During an earthquake,
an unbraced water
heater can topple,
which can start a re
or lead to major water
damage.
Is your building’s water
heater braced?
If your building’s water heater is not properly braced, or if it has
rigid rather than exible pipes, the water heater may move or
topple during an earthquake. This movement can break gas or
water lines, resulting in re, water damage, or release of toxic gas.
Under California law, you are required to brace your building’s
water heater(s) whenever you install a new water heater or if you
sell the building.
How to Check for Proper Water Heater Bracing
1. Look for two sets of straps that wrap around the water heater
and securely bolt the water heater to the wall and wall studs
(see diagram).
2. Make sure water and gas pipes are exible.
Tankless Water Heater?
For a tankless water heater, be sure it is securely attached
to the wall and that its pipes are installed according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
PROPER WATER HEATER BRACING
Sheetrock
WANT TO RETROFIT?
Find out more on pages 26–29.
PAGE 14
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 15
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Item 2
Are walls adequately anchored
to oors and roofs?
During an earthquake, the various parts of a building may move in
different directions. If the connections (anchorage) between concrete
or masonry walls (reinforced or unreinforced), wood oors, and roof are
weak, walls can pull away during earthquake shaking, causing all or a
portion of the building to collapse.
How to Check for Wall Anchorage
Buildings with the following characteristics are more likely to have poor
wall anchorage:
• Buildings constructed before the mid-1970s with precast (tilt-up) concrete
or masonry walls (reinforced or unreinforced)
• In some buildings built between 1975 and 1995 and prior to adoption of
the post-Northridge earthquake standards
You most likely will need to hire a professional engineer or architect to
determine the condition of wall anchorage.
Reid Middleton, Inc.
The concrete tilt-up walls of this “big box” warehouse store
separated from the steel truss roof during an earthquake.
WANT TO RETROFIT?
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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Items 3a and 3b
Are unreinforced masonry walls
and parapets strengthened?
If your building has walls of unreinforced masonry—hollow clay
tiles, stone, concrete blocks, or adobe—the mortar holding
together the masonry may be brittle and not strong enough to
withstand earthquake shaking. As a result, during an earthquake:
• Walls or an entire building could collapse
• Masonry can break away and fall to the ground or
on adjacent buildings
• Roofs, oors, and parapets (tops of walls that extend above
roofs) can fall
In addition, an adjacent unreinforced masonry building can present
a risk to your building and its occupants.
Earthquake shaking caused
the unreinforced brick
parapet and façade of this
building to collapse, killing
people on the ground.
C.E. Meyer,
U.S. Geological Survey
WANT TO RETROFIT?
Find out more on pages 26–29.
PAGE 16
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 17
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Items 3a and 3b
How to Check for Structural Reinforcement
Most pre-1940 buildings have unreinforced masonry
construction. To assess these older buildings, examine the
composition of the exterior walls and look for evidence
of structural reinforcement or retrotting, such as
steel plates and anchor bolts (see photo).
Fred Turner, SE
• The use of “header courses”
HEADER COURSES
is often a sign of unreinforced
Header Courses
masonry.
Header courses are bricks
• Unbraced parapets have
turned endwise every ve
or six rows to tie the outer
no visible steel members
layer of bricks to the layers
connecting the top or side of
inside the wall.
the parapet to the roof.
• If you do not know what to look
for, consult a licensed engineer
or architect.
Are you required to post warning signs?
If your building is in an area where a damaging earthquake is
most likely to happen (Seismic Zone 4)—and if your building
has load-bearing walls of unreinforced masonry—you may be
required to post earthquake-risk warning signs for the public.
Properly posting these warning signs is important for the safety
of the public. In addition, failure to post required signage
will delay your building’s eligibility to receive state assistance
for earthquake repairs if eligible (see Disclosing Masonry
Weaknesses on page 36).
Earthquake Warning
This is an unreinforced
masonry building
You may not be safe inside or near
unreinforced masonry buildings
during an earthquake.
WANT TO RETROFIT?
Find out more on pages 26–29.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Item 4
Do you have a pre-1980
concrete building?
Pre-1980 structures with concrete walls or columns often lack
adequate steel reinforcement. As a result, the walls or columns can
be brittle, and, during a major earthquake, the walls or the entire
building may collapse or be damaged beyond repair—and pose a
great threat to life.
In 1971, three concrete hospital buildings collapsed following the
San Fernando earthquake, killing 52 people.
How to Check for Adequate Steel Reinforcement
You should hire a structural or civil engineer to review your
building’s plans to determine the level of steel reinforcement
and the need for additional conning reinforcement steel. This
assessment is particularly important for buildings constructed
before 1975 or for buildings with any of the following:
• Many large windows
• An irregular shape (not square or rectangular)
• A tall, open rst oor
Concrete columns
with inadequate
conning
reinforcement steel
failed during the
1994 Northridge
earthquake.
U.S. Geological Survey
WANT TO RETROFIT?
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PAGE 18
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 19
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Item 5
Has an older steel-frame building
been inspected?
Pre-1995 steel-moment-frame buildings and pre-1982 steel-braced-frame
buildings often require retrot.*
Earthquake shaking can cause fractures (cracks) or buckling in steel framing,
which can severely damage a building’s structural integrity and cause a
building to partially collapse.
These fractures can occur in welds and steel elements in or near steel
beam-to-column connections, and also in column base plates in pre-1995
steel-moment-frame buildings. In buildings constructed before 1982, slender
or thin-walled diagonal steel braces can buckle prematurely.
How to Check for Weld Fractures or Thin-Walled Braces
Fractures in steel-frame construction are often small and hard to detect
because they may be covered by exterior facades, interior walls, ceilings,
or reproong. You should hire a structural or civil engineer to assess the
condition of steel framing, particularly if the building has been exposed to
strong ground shaking and you have found:
• Cracked nishes around columns and beams
• Cracked or out-of-plumb partitions or door frames
• Damaged ceilings or broken glass
You may also want to obtain a qualied assessment
if you are concerned about the potential for
such damage.
Earthquake shaking followed
by tsunami damaged both the
steel-moment framing and
the steel-braced framing of
this building.
* A steel moment-frame is an assembly of beams and columns, rigidly joined together to resist both
vertical and lateral forces, while a steel braced frame resists lateral forces with diagonal braces.
Dimitrios Lignos
and EERI
WANT TO RETROFIT?
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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Item 6
Is a “soft”- or weak-story building
adequately strengthened?
Older wood-framed buildings—particularly apartments—are
described as having a “soft-” or weak-story problem when the rst
(ground-level) oor has either carport-style parking or commercial
space that has large windows and few solid walls.
These types of buildings are prone to collapse if ground oor walls
and columns are not strong enough to hold up the building during
earthquake shaking.
How to Check for Strengthening
To check the structural condition of a soft- or weak-story building,
you should consult a qualied engineer or architect.
U.S. Geological Survey
Earthquake shaking caused these apartment buildings to collapse on their
ground-level carports.
WANT TO RETROFIT?
Find out more on pages 26–29.
PAGE 20
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 21
Earthquake Risk Disclosure Report Item 7
Is exterior cladding and signage
adequately anchored?
A building’s exterior cladding can sustain damage and even fall off if the
cladding does not allow the building to ex when the ground shakes.
This type of structural risk is particularly problematic for buildings that have:
• Heavy precast concrete cladding with weak steel connections
• Cladding units with gaps or joints not large enough or in the right places
to accommodate building movement
Inadequate anchoring of exterior signage can also become a hazard during
an earthquake.
How to Check for Adequate Anchoring
Consult with a qualied engineer or architect to assess a building’s exterior
cladding and signage.
U.S. Geological Survey
The cladding (siding) of this ofce building—as well as the structure—were
damaged during an earthquake.
WANT TO RETROFIT?
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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Other Structural and Non-Structural Risks
Other Structural and
Non-Structural Risks
Your commercial property also may have other structural or non-
structural issues that could result in serious property damage
or injuries during an earthquake. Although these risks are not
included on the Disclosure Report, they should be considered if
you are a property owner or potential buyer.
UNUSUAL OR IRREGULAR BUILDING DESIGN
A building with a design that is anything other than a box with
four walls, oors, and a roof can be more vulnerable to earthquake
damage than simple buildings. Design features such as the
following can make a building vulnerable:
• Long horizontal spans
• Open, multi-story interior spaces (e.g., lobbies, auditoriums)
• Unique building shape (e.g., L-shape)
• Vertical step-backs or over-hangs at upper oors
Consult a qualied engineer or architect to evaluate the condition
of a building.
C. Scawthorn
WANT TO RETROFIT?
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PAGE 22
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 23
Other Structural and Non-Structural Risks
OTHER COMMON PROPERTY VULNERABILITIES
If your building has any of these features or types of contents, you
should consider a detailed assessment for earthquake vulnerability.
If necessary, the issues should be mitigated to prevent costly
building damage, injuries or interruption to business.
• Heavy roof: Buildings with heavy roofs (e.g., clay, tile, or slate)
will shake more in an earthquake than buildings with lighter-
weight roofs. These heavier materials are also more likely to fall
and injure people or objects below.
• Over-sized windows: The larger the window (e.g., retail stores),
the more likely it will break in an earthquake. This is a particular
problem when windows are surrounded with only a small
amount of supporting wall framing.
• Unattached or unbraced building equipment (mechanical,
electrical, plumbing [MEP]): If improperly braced, essential
building equipment such as air conditioners,
water or propane tanks, and boilers can
topple or slide in an earthquake. Unbraced
gas, electrical, water supply, or waste lines
can break and cause re or ood damage.
• Unbraced ceiling or wall systems: Unbraced
or improperly braced ceiling systems, heavy
light xtures, wall partitions, and duct vents
can shake loose during an earthquake and
injure people or damage building contents.
• Stairs, balconies, overhangs: If these
features are not braced or attached
properly, they can collapse in an earthquake
and, potentially, prevent people from
evacuating the building.
• Unreinforced masonry chimney:
Unreinforced brick or stone chimneys often
collapse in earthquakes.
U.S. Geological
Survey
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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Other Structural and Non-Structural Risks
• Signs, marquees, canopies: Signs and other exterior features
must be braced to ensure they will not fall and cause injuries or
property damage. Check periodically to make sure connections
are secure.
• Shelves, storage and building contents: An earthquake can
cause shelves, storage systems, furniture, and their contents to
shift and fall, injuring people and damaging property.
• Heavy business equipment: IT equipment or shop equipment
may be severely damaged in an earthquake. A business may
lose vital records and cause costly business interruption.
Appliances with ammable gas and ignitable liquid can cause a
re following earthquake.
Reid Middleton, Inc
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PAGE 24
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 25
Other Structural and Non-Structural Risks
FIRE FOLLOWING EARTHQUAKE
A building may survive an earthquake but sustain signicant
post-earthquake damage from a re. A re following earthquake
can become an extremely large and devasting event in urban
settings that are more densely populated and have neighborhoods
with wood-frame buildings. In addition, broken water mains
may reduce the amount of water available to ght these post-
earthquake res.
Although re following an earthquake has many possible causes,
the most common res are those resulting from:
• Natural gas leaks
• Electrical system malfunctions
• Interactions involving hazardous chemicals or ammable liquids
How to Reduce the Fire Risk
The most practical way to minimize the likelihood of re following
earthquakes is to prevent the release of ammable gas and
ignitable liquid from building equipment and pipelines.
• Ensure that all natural gas appliances (water heaters, dryers,
stoves, ovens, furnaces) are securely
anchored to oors or walls and have
exible pipe connections.
• Correct deciencies that could
result in electrical arcing near
combustible material.
• Install automatic gas shut-off systems
and/or ensure that key personnel
at the building site have both the
access and tools (wrench) to shut
off the gas after an earthquake.
SF Fire Department
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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Tips for a Successful
Retrot
MAKE A PLAN: DEFINE THE SCOPE OF WORK AND
HOW TO ACCOMPLISH THE PROJECT
The rst step in an earthquake retrot or upgrade is to ensure
that you, as the property owner, understand the work that will
be required for the retrot project and the required building and
performance standards. You should not rush into repairs, no
matter how badly they are needed, or hire the rst contractor
you meet with.
1
2
3
Dene Scope of Work
Dening the scope of a retrot or upgrade project is a critical
rst step. Additional resources are listed on page 35.
Reminders:
• For any retrot project, be sure to consult with your local
building department for advice on the State’s requirements,
local building codes and standards.
• To determine the best solution for a retrot, you may want to
consult a licensed engineer or architect or a general contractor
that specializes in this type of work. (See page 29 for additional
information on securing expert advice).
• You or your architect/engineer/contractor will need to obtain a
building permit from your local building department.
• When evaluating the cost of a retrot, remember to consider
both the economic value of the work and the value to your
“peace of mind.”
PAGE 26
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 27
Water Heater Bracing
Under California law, you are required to brace the water heater when you
install a new water heater and when you sell your property.
You can brace a water heater yourself using a strap kit, available from a local
hardware store. Or, you can hire a plumber or handyperson to do the work.
The diagram on page 14 illustrates proper water heater bracing.
As an added safety precaution, consider having a licensed plumber replace
any rigid pipes with exible pipes, which will better withstand shaking during
an earthquake.
Simple Mitigation Projects: Bracing of Nonstructural Components
In several recent U.S. earthquakes, the majority of property damage has been
nonstructural in nature, and the loss of life and property could have been
prevented with proper bracing of nonstructural components.
The publication Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural Earthquake Damage:
A Practical Guide (FEMA E-74) is a good resource for learning about and then
mitigating the risks of various nonstructural building components—and allows
building and business owners to undertake some seismic bracing without the
need to hire an engineer, architect, or contractor.
Other resources for simple mitigation projects include the following:
• Nonstructural Earthquake Hazards in California Schools
(DSA, CSSC, OES, 2011)
• Installing Seismic Restraints for Mechanical, Electrical, and Duct and Pipe
(FEMA 412, 413, and 414, 2002, 2004)
• Seismic Considerations for Steel Storage Racks (FEMA 450, 2003)
More Complicated Retrot Projects
By their nature, some earthquake retrot projects are more complicated and
will require the expertise of a licensed engineer or architect and/or a general
contractor who specializes in this type of work. Be sure the expert consults
relevant local ordinances and the latest industry guidelines and standards.
• Inadequate wall anchorage: To strengthen wall anchorage may require
new anchorage and continuous ties across the roof. Work can be done
inside above the ceiling or on the roof, at relatively low cost. Engineering
information is in the California Existing Building Code, Appendix A,
Chapter A2.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
• Unreinforced masonry walls and parapets: In most cases,
retrotting unreinforced masonry walls requires 1) better
connecting the walls to the roof and oors and 2) installing
steel frames or reinforced concrete. In some cases, large steel
plates must be attached with anchor bolts through the masonry
(see photo on page 17). Engineering information is in the
California Existing Building Code, Appendix A, Chapter A1.
• Non-ductile concrete walls and columns: To mitigate this
issue, new walls or bracing can be added and columns can be
wrapped with conning material.
• Steel-frame buildings: For repair and retrot techniques and
recommended guidelines check these resources: FEMA
(FEMA 350 to 353), the American Institute of Steel
Construction (AISC 341 Seismic Provisions and AISC 358)
and the International Code Council (ICC) (see “Additional
Resources” on page 35). Local ordinances may also apply.
• Soft-story multi-unit residential buildings: Soft, weak, or
open-front stories can be strengthened to prevent collapse.
• Unreinforced masonry chimney: Strengthening or bracing a
chimney can be expensive. Retrot options include:
○ Adding plywood panels either above ceiling joists or, when
re-roong, on roof framing
○ Removing or replacing all or a portion of the chimney with
lighter-weight material (e.g., using a metal ue for the upper
portion of a chimney) (see FEMA P-1100, Volume 2C)
• Historical buildings: Your project also may need to comply
with the California Historical Building Code.
Keep Your Retrot Documents
Once your project is complete, remember to keep all plans,
permits, and other project records so you can provide
them to a future buyer.
PAGE 28
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 29
Select a Licensed Architect, Engineer and/or Contractor
A critical step is to nd and hire the right professional. Be sure you:
• Discuss project with at least two or, ideally, more licensed professionals.
• Obtain written proposals. Do not accept verbal promises. Be sure to
compare the proposals to ensure the scope of work in each (project
description) meets your needs and are similar. Examine all terms (e.g.,
price, project plan and timeframe, use of subcontractors). Consider each
professional’s experience with earthquake retrotting. The lowest-priced
bid may not be the best bid.
• Ask for and then check with references.
• Before nalizing a contract, verify that your preferred professional’s state
license is current and that he/she is locally licensed.
You will nd useful a number of publications from the Contractor’s State
License Board. Visit www.cslb.ca.gov.
• What You Should Know before Hiring a Contractor:
Provides information on how to nd, hire and work with a contractor
• Building Improvement Contracts: Putting the Pieces Together:
Provides information on the legal requirements of contractors
• After a Disaster, Don’t Get Scammed:
Provides general information on the contracting process
Avoid Contractor Payment Pitfalls
• For any project that costs $500 or more, a licensed contractor must
provide a written contract.
• Pay the contractor in installments as the work is completed.
○ Keep the down payment low. By law, a down payment on a building
improvement contract cannot exceed 10% of the contract price or
$1,000, whichever is less.
○ Consider requiring the contractor to secure a completion bond.
○ Withhold at least 10% of the total contract price until the project is
completed to your satisfaction.
○ Do not make the nal payment until the local building department has
signed off on the work and you have conducted a nal review to make
sure the work is complete and correct.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Financial Resources
Even in the most damaging earthquakes, federal or state assistance
(funding) for the repair of commercial properties is not typically
available. Commercial property owners are expected to have
adequate insurance and nancial reserves to cover losses (building,
business interruption, and loss of income) and repairs. This reality
emphasizes the need for commercial property owners to consider
the cost-benet of both seismic retrots and earthquake insurance.
Financial Value of Retrots
Properly retrotted buildings are the only way to reduce the
likelihood of signicant property damage, devastating injuries,
and/or nancial losses from an earthquake. In addition, seismic
retrotting will likely reduce insurance premiums or increase the
likelihood that your property is insurable.
Tax Credit Programs and Other Financial Assistance
For qualied owners of “at-risk property,” the State offers a ve-year
30 percent tax credit program for qualied seismic-retrot costs.
The tax credit, which is awarded upon completion of a seismic
retrot, can be applied to personal income tax or corporate taxes.
California’s Revenue and Tax Code (Section 74.5) also allows
property owners to implement seismic-strengthening measures
without a property tax reassessment.
The California Capital Access Program (CalCAP) Seismic Safety
Financing Program facilitates private nancing for seismic retrots
to small businesses and residential property owners, including the
owners of multi-unit residential properties and mobile homes. More
information is on the California Treasurer website.
Local jurisdictions may also offer incentives for seismic retrots.
The local building department may be able to offer suggestions.
Consult an accountant for more information.
PAGE 30
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 31
As a reminder: As part of the property sales process, lenders typically require
a seismic assessment of the property and, depending on the outcome, a
lender may require seismic retrot or earthquake insurance for loan approval.
Earthquake Insurance
Without insurance, most commercial property owners will suffer signicant
nancial loss from a major earthquake.
The cost of earthquake insurance is based on several factors, including
property location, age, construction type, and condition as well as the
deductible and replacement values. In California, typical earthquake
deductibles average between 10 and 20 percent of replacement value.
A commercial property owner should consider his or her individual risk
factors—including the potential costs of business interruption and loss of
income—and then weigh the cost of earthquake insurance coverage against
the benets. The advice of a licensed civil or structural engineer or an
architect can help determine the potential for damage, the expected cost of
and time for repairs, and the potential for lost business income.
An alternative to traditional earthquake coverage is parametric insurance.
Parametric insurance provides coverage against specic events rather than on
actual loss damage. When a disaster such as an earthquake occurs, coverage
is triggered by an objective measure of a hazard—such as earthquake
magnitude—rather than based on loss adjustment. As a result, parametric
policies can pay rapidly, disputes over payouts are greatly reduced, and
payouts can be used exibly for any post-disaster need.
Contact your insurance agent or broker to help you locate earthquake
insurance products (traditional or parametric), pricing, and deductible options.
Small Business Disaster Loans and
Other Resources
The U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans;
however, these loans have credit requirements.
The State offers a range of resiliency and disaster relief assistance programs
and services for California businesses. For more information, visit the
California Ofce of the Small Business Advocate website.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
DROP!
COVER!
HOLD ON!
Earthquake Safety Tips
Precautions: During an Earthquake
If you are indoors: Drop, cover and hold on.
• Get under a sturdy desk or table and hang on to it OR move
into a hallway OR get against an interior wall.
• Stay clear of windows, replaces, and heavy furniture or appliances.
• Get out of a kitchen or any area that has objects that can fall.
• Do not run downstairs or rush outside while the building is
shaking. Debris may be falling and/or you might fall and
sustain an injury.
If you are outdoors: Get into an open area. Move away from
buildings, power lines, chimneys, and anything else
that might fall.
If you are driving: Prepare to stop.
• Move as far out of trafc as possible.
• Do not stop on or under a bridge
or overpass or under trees,
light poles, power lines, or signs.
• Remain in your car until the
shaking stops.
• After you resume driving, watch
Get an EARLY warning
for cracks or bumps in the
The free MyShake* smartphone
road and fallen objects.
app sends audio and visual
earthquake warnings before
If you are near a steep hillside:
strong shaking begins.
Watch for landslides. Earthquakes can
Get the app at
www.earthquake.ca.gov.
loosen rocks, trees, and other debris.
*MyShake is a free smartphone app that sends audio and
visual earthquake warnings potentially seconds to tens of
seconds before strong shaking begins depending how far
you are from the epicenter. Part of the state’s Earthquake
Early Warning system, the tool is available for iPhone and
Android devices. Get the app at the Apple and Google
Play stores and learn more at www.earthquake.ca.gov.
Get Started
PAGE 32
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 33
COASTAL AREAS: SPECIAL TSUNAMI PRECAUTIONS
An earthquake or large landslide near the coast or beneath the ocean can
cause a tsunami. A tsunami may occur without warning, and the rst waves—
which often are not the largest—may reach the coast within minutes after
the initial earthquake. And, an earthquake may result in more than one set of
waves; potentially deadly tsunami waves can continue to arrive for hours and
at intervals of 10 minutes or more.
During the shaking: Drop, cover, and hold on. Watch for falling objects
until the shaking stops.
After the shaking: Move (evacuate) immediately either to higher ground or
inland away from the shore, and do so on foot, especially if you are not sure
you can evacuate by vehicle. Note: Authorities may have no time to issue a
warning. If you do not hear an evacuation announcement but you see a drop
or rise in water level or you hear a loud noise coming from the water, move
immediately and quickly away from the shore.
Stay away from the shore. Wait for an ofcial “all clear” announcement
before you return to the area.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Aftershocks
may occur and
you may need
to continue
to take
precautions
even after
the initial
earthquake.
Precautions: After an Earthquake
Check for Injuries
• If a person is bleeding, put direct pressure on the wound.
Use clean gauze or cloth, if available.
• If a person is not breathing, immediately call 911. If you can,
perform CPR.
• Seek medical help for other serious injuries.
• Do not attempt to move a person who is seriously injured
unless there is an immediate danger of further injury.
• Cover injured persons with blankets to keep them warm.
Check for Hazards
• Fires: If safe to do so, immediately extinguish a re.
Otherwise, call 911.
• Gas leaks: If you suspect a gas leak or smell natural gas (rotten
eggs), shut off the main gas valve. Note: Once you turn off the
gas, do not turn it back on yourself. Wait for the utility company
to check for leaks and restore service.
• Damaged electrical wiring: Shut off power at the control box.
• Downed or damaged utility lines: Do not touch downed
power lines or any objects in contact with them. Contact the
local electric utility company.
• Spills: If you can do so safely, clean up any spilled medications
or spills of other potentially harmful materials such as bleach,
lye, or gasoline.
• Downed or damaged chimneys: Chimneys may be weakened
and could topple during aftershocks. Do not use a replace
with a damaged chimney; the damage could cause a re or
leak toxic fumes.
• Broken glass: To avoid injuries, be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
• Fallen objects: Look for objects that have fallen, being careful
as you check closets and cupboards for objects that still
might fall.
PAGE 34
PAGE 35
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
IN THIS SECTION
PAGE
Additional Resources............. 35
Relevant State
Seismic Safety Laws............... 36
Acknowledgements............... 38
Other Information
The pages that follow provide additional information that
property owners may nd useful.
Additional Resources
A number of additional resources on earthquake safety for
commercial property owners are available both from the
California Seismic Safety Commission and the Federal Emergency
Management Administration (FEMA).
• California Seismic Safety Commission:
www.ssc.ca.gov/forms_pubs/cog.html
• California Governor’s Ofce of Emergency Services:
www.caloes.ca.gov
• California Building Standards Commission:
www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC/Codes
• California Earthquake Authority:
www.earthquakeauthority.com
• California Geological Survey:
www.consrv.ca.gov/cgs
• California Small Business Development Center:
www.californiasbdc.org
• Federal Emergency Management Administration:
www.fema.gov
• United States Geological Survey:
www.usgs.gov
Emergency Preparedness Resources
• American Red Cross:
www.redcross.org
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security:
www.ready.gov/earthquakes
• Earthquake Country Alliance:
www.earthquakecountry.org
PAGE 35
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Relevant State Seismic Safety Laws
The full wording of these laws is available at
http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes.xhtml
Publishing the Guide
(Business and Professions Code, Section 10147)
The California Seismic Safety Commission is required to develop,
adopt, publish, and update the Commercial Property Owner’s
Guide to Earthquake Safety, containing information on geologic
and seismic hazards, explanations of structural and nonstructural
earthquake hazards, and recommendations for mitigating these
hazards.
Delivering this Guide
(Government Code, Sections 8893.2 and 8875.6)
Each seller of commercial property built before 1975 that
has precast (tilt-up) concrete or masonry walls (reinforced or
unreinforced) and wood-frame oors or roofs must give the
buyer “as soon as practicable before the transfer” a copy of the
Commercial Property Owner’s Guide to Earthquake Safety and
disclose certain earthquake deciencies.
Disclosing Masonry Weaknesses
(Government Code, Sections 8875.8
& 8875.9)
Local governments in Seismic Zone 4 (where a damaging
earthquake is most likely to happen) must identify all unreinforced
masonry buildings within their jurisdictions and establish programs
to mitigate the risks of these buildings, including a process for
notifying building owners of the risks (Government Code, Sections
8875, 8875.1 and 8875.2).
Building owners who receive such notices must post earthquake-
risk warning signs on buildings that have load-bearing unreinforced
masonry walls (Government Code, Sections 8875.8 and 8875.9).
A property owner has ve years to comply with the local program
requirements, after which the owner may not receive state
assistance payments for earthquake repairs until after all other
applicants have been paid (Government Code, Section 8875.7).
Note: Check with the local building department to determine if a
building is subject to this requirement.
PAGE 36
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
PAGE 37
Water Heater Bracing (Health and Safety Code, Section 19211)
Water heaters must be anchored or strapped to resist falling during an
earthquake. The seller must certify to the potential buyer that the water
heater is properly braced.
Earthquake Faults
(Public Resources Code, Section 2621 and following
sections)
The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act prohibits building for
human occupancy astride active faults and requires sellers of commercial
property to disclose to potential buyers if the property is located in a
designated fault zone.
Landslide and Liquefaction
(Public Resources Code, Section 2694 and
following sections)
The Seismic Hazard Mapping Act requires the State to prepare maps of
the zones in California most susceptible to landslide and liquefaction
hazards during earthquakes and requires sellers to disclose to buyers if
the property is in such a zone. The Disclosure Report can be used to meet
the requirement.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNER’S GUIDE TO EARTHQUAKE SAFETY
Acknowledgments
California Seismic Safety Commission
Hon. Cindy Silva, Chair, Local Government
Fuad Sweiss, Vice Chair, Mechanical Engineer
Ida A. Clair, State Architect (Alternate: Diane Gould)
Hon. Ken Cooley, State Assembly (Alternate: Nestor Lopez)
Alegria De La Cruz, Social Services
Hon. Debra Garnes, Local Government
Mark Ghilarducci, Ofce of Emergency Services (Alternate: Lori Nezhura)
Joone Kim-Lopez, Public Utility
Mia Marvelli, Building Standards Commission
Dr. Kit Miyamoto, Structural Engineer
Hon. David Rabbitt, Local Government
Andrew (Andy) Tran, Insurance
Vincent Wells, Fire Protection
Commission Staff
Salina Valencia, Acting Executive Director
Tanya Black
Jia Wang-Connelly
The Commission appreciates the assistance of the following organizations and
individuals in preparing this version and prior versions of the Guide:
American Red Cross
Bob Anderson, SSC (ret.)
Association of Bay Area
Governments
AT&T
Building Education Center
California Association of Realtors
California Building Ofcials
California Council of the
American Institute of Architects
California Geological Survey
California Department of
Insurance
California Real Estate Inspection
Association
California Governor’s Ofce of
Emergency Services
City of Los Angeles
Collaborative for Disaster
Mitigation
Committee on Earthquake Safety
Issues for Gas Systems
Earthquake Engineering Research
Institute
Randy Goodwin, City Architect/
Building Ofcial, City of
West Sacramento
Humboldt Earthquake Education
Center
International Code Council
Richard McCarthy, SSC,
Executive Director (ret.)
National Geophysical Data Center
Pacic Earthquake Engineering
Research Center
San Diego Association of
Governments
Southern California Association of
Governments
Southern California Gas Company/
SEMPRA
Structural Engineers Association of
California
Fred Turner, SSC (ret.)
United States Geological Survey
Ivan Wong, SSC Commissioner (fmr.)
PAGE 38
