Apartment buildings offer strong earthquake resistance, but the higher the floor, the greater the shaking, and there are apartment-specific risks such as elevator outages and utility disruptions.This guide explains the disaster-preparedness measures you should take before and after moving in.
What earthquake risks should you anticipate in a newly built apartment building?
- Shaking on upper floors can be more than two to three times greater than at ground level：Long-period ground motion increases the risk of furniture tipping over
- Elevator outage：Restoration can take time, making movement difficult, especially on the upper floors of tower apartments
- Utility disruption：Drainage systems may stop functioning, making toilets unusable
What are the three earthquake-protection structures used in newly built apartment buildings?
| Structure | Features | How it moves during an earthquake |
|---|---|---|
| Seismic-resistant structure | Uses high-strength materials for walls, columns, and beams | Receives shaking directly. It experiences the greatest movement |
| Vibration-control structure | Absorbs earthquake energy with dampers | Shaking is reduced more on higher floors |
| Base-isolated structure | Separates the building from the ground with a rubber layer | It experiences the least shaking. Common in luxury apartment buildings |
What disaster-preparedness points should you check before moving in?
- Check evacuation sites：Use your municipality's disaster-preparedness map to identify designated emergency evacuation sites and designated evacuation shelters
- Prepare two to three evacuation routes：Avoid hazardous areas such as older buildings, concrete block walls, and rivers
- Understand the building's disaster-preparedness equipment：Check the locations of fire extinguishers, sprinklers, escape ladders, and guide lights
What are the disaster-preparedness differences between detached houses and apartment buildings?
- Apartment buildings offer high earthquake resistance, but on upper floors you may feel shaking that exceeds the reported seismic intensity
- Damage to a single unit can affect utility services throughout the entire building
- When elevators stop, travel between the ground level and upper floors becomes more difficult the higher you live
FAQ
Q. What emergency supplies should be stocked at a minimum in an apartment building?
Basic supplies include water (3 liters per person per day for 3 days), emergency food, portable toilets, flashlights, a portable radio, and a mobile battery.
Q. What is the evacuation method if you live on an upper floor?
If the elevator stops, use the stairs. Make a habit of checking the stair location and evacuation route in advance.
Q. If an apartment building has a base-isolated structure, are disaster-preparedness measures unnecessary?
Even with a base-isolated structure, you still need to secure furniture and prepare for utility disruptions. Basic disaster-preparedness measures should be taken regardless of the structure type.
