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From Shakealert to Post-Earthquake Assessment – Improving Situation Awareness of Building Managers and Occupants

Description: 

Early warning systems must be optimized through a combination of science and technology that provide a foundation to deliver alerts in the form of actionable information in a manner relevant to the recipient of the alert. The effect of the potential disconnect between the understanding of these systems' technical innovations and the layperson's human behavioral need can be seen in the perceived issues in the early deployments of some of the most robust early warning systems. If the system serves the scientific community but does not meet the needs of the information users, the value of the system can be called into question. Earthquake early warning systems (EEWS) serve multiple participants and must address the needs of each in a manner consistent with their expectations – detailed technical information for scientists and engineers, actionable information for emergency responders, and safety instructions for the general public.

Maximizing the effect of EEWS requires that they be integrated into the everyday systems and processes of those who rely on them. Typically, the warning comprises a simple, understandable display of instructions to Drop, Cover, and Hold On, including estimated timing and intensity associated with their location. Following the shaking, however, emergency management personnel and responders require another level of information to help guide their actions and decisions. For this reason, our platform delivers earthquake early warning messages as an element of a larger workflow incorporating information on the impact of ground motion on their structures, details of potential non-structural impact within their structures, and a mobile app that enables occupants to submit injury and hazard reports. Emergency response personnel can use the platform to perform safety checks, evaluate the overall impact on their structures and occupants, and manage their emergency response. This approach informs and integrates the procedures of the response team as well as the occupants within the structures, resulting in a more comprehensive and effective system.

Session: End-to-End Advancements in Earthquake Early Warning Systems - III

Type: Oral

Date: 5/3/2024

Presentation Time: 08:45 AM (local time)

Presenting Author: Mathias

Student Presenter: No

Invited Presentation: 

Authors