The primary objectives of seismic engineering are to:
- Protect human life
- Prevent structural collapse by designing more seismically resilient structures
- Minimise economic losses
- Maintain functionality of critical infrastructure after an earthquake
Seismic structural engineering focuses on ensuring that structures can safely withstand earthquake-induced forces. By combining knowledge of structural dynamics, material behaviour and seismic hazard, engineers design structures that can absorb and dissipate earthquake energy, protecting lives while reducing damage and disruption.