09-02
5. RESISTIVE DESIGN OF NON-STRUCTURAL BUILDING ELEMENTS
5.1 Definitions . Non-structural building elements include all components or systems that are not part
of the building's structural system whether inside or outside, above or below grade. Non-structural
elements of buildings include:
5.1.1 Architectural Elements. Facades that are not part of the structural system and its shear resistant
elements; cornices and other architectural projections and parapets that do not function structurally;
glazing; nonbearing partitions; suspended ceilings; stairs isolated from the basic structure; cabinets;
bookshelves; medical equipment; and storage racks.
5.1.2 Electrical Elements. Power and lighting systems; substations; switchgear and switchboards;
auxiliary engine-generator sets; transfer switches; motor control centers; motor generators; elevator and
transport systems; selector and controller panels; fire protection and alarm systems; special life support
systems; and telephone and communication systems.
plumbing systems; sprinkler systems; pneumatic systems; boiler equipment and components; and
mechanical and structural elements for transport systems, i.e., elevators and dumbwaiters, including
hoisting equipment and counterweights.
5.1 Earthquake Resistive Design Requirements
5.2.1 General. Clearly indicate special seismic details for restraining non-structural elements of
hospital, research, or ambulatory care buildings and energy centers on the contract drawings. Include
restraints, flexibility of service connections and field reinforcements, or a combination of those provisions
for earthquake-resistive design provisions for non-structural elements of buildings. Examples of such
design provisions are described below:
earthquake-generated differential movements between non-structural elements and the building
structure. Brace suspended items, including piping, conduit, ducts, lighting fixtures, and in both
directions to resist swaying and excessive movement.
5.2.3 Flexibility. Keep mechanical and electrical systems crossing building expansion or seismic joints
to a minimum, and provide flexibility to allow for earthquake-generated differential movements. Where
possible, restrict these crossings to lower stories. Where these systems must cross such joints, provide
flexible joints, expansion loops, or other effective methods of incorporating flexibility. Allow for
anticipated differential movement for sleeves and openings. Use flexible electrical raceways where
connecting components would experience damaging relative movements.
5.2.4 Field Reinforcement. Reinforce all field fabricated non-structural elements of buildings and
equipment to resist damage from earthquake-generated motions.
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