Evolution of the U.S. Seismic Evaluation Standard System for Existing Buildings and a Comparative Analysis with China

RAN Yu; HUANG Xuanming; LU Yufei; ZHANG Xinjiang

doi:10.3724/j.gyjzG25031105

Volume 56 Issue 5

May 2026

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RAN Yu, HUANG Xuanming, LU Yufei, ZHANG Xinjiang. Evolution of the U.S. Seismic Evaluation Standard System for Existing Buildings and a Comparative Analysis with China[J]. INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION, 2026, 56(5): 47-56. doi: 10.3724/j.gyjzG25031105

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RAN Yu, HUANG Xuanming, LU Yufei, ZHANG Xinjiang. Evolution of the U.S. Seismic Evaluation Standard System for Existing Buildings and a Comparative Analysis with China[J]. INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION, 2026, 56(5): 47-56. doi: 10.3724/j.gyjzG25031105

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Evolution of the U.S. Seismic Evaluation Standard System for Existing Buildings and a Comparative Analysis with China

doi: 10.3724/j.gyjzG25031105

RAN Yu^1,2,3,
HUANG Xuanming^{1,2,3
,
,},
LU Yufei^1,2,3,
ZHANG Xinjiang^1,2,3

1. China Academy of Building Research, Beijing 100013, China;
2. CABR Testing Center Co., Ltd., Beijing 100013, China;
3. National Engineering Research Center of Building Technology, Beijing 100013, China

Received Date: 2025-03-11
Available Online: 2026-06-06
Publish Date: 2026-05-20

Abstract

Abstract

This paper introduces the U.S. standard system for existing buildings， analyzes the seismic evaluation techniques， and focuses on the FEMA P-154-2015 rapid visual screening method and the ASCE/SEI 41-23 three-level evaluation process. The United States adopts a grading mode characterized by “graded screening， differentiated evaluation， and targeted reinforcement” for the governance of existing buildings. This mode offers the advantages of flexibility and high efficiency， while also having certain limitations. By comparing the standards of the two countries and considering China's actual conditions， this paper proposes recommendations， such as defining benchmark buildings to simplify the evaluation process and improving performance-based assessment methods to complement traditional appraisals. It aims to provide technical references for construction projects under “the Belt and Road” initiative， thereby offering insights for the scientific and standardized management of existing buildings as well as for urban renewal.
- existing buildings,
- standard system,
- seismic appraisal,
- performance-based evaluation,
- FEMA P-154-2015,
- ASCE/SEI 41-23,
- rapid screening,
- urban renewal

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References(24)

References

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