Ceiling Seismic Diagnosis：JACCA
The Importance of Ceiling Seismic Strength
Amid the push for seismic strengthening of structural frames, the devastating events of the Great East Japan Earthquake revealed the dire consequences of numerous instances of ceiling collapses, resulting in the loss of precious lives. This brought about a renewed recognition of the hazards posed by suspended ceilings. We must once again acknowledge the seismic vulnerability of suspended ceilings.
In the future, seismic strengthening of ceilings, which are non-structural elements, will be legally mandated according to the building's purpose and size. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has released a draft of "Ceiling Collapse Prevention Measures for Buildings," encouraging the seismic retrofitting of ceilings in large spaces such as gymnasiums, theaters, commercial facilities, and factories. To address these requirements, it is crucial to first accurately assess the current situation.
About Ceiling Seismic Diagnosis
What buildings require Ceiling Seismic Diagnosis?
Since April 2014, amendments to the Building Standards Act and Building Construction Act have been made, and technical standards regarding suspended ceilings have been established. Even ceilings that appear undamaged may pose a risk of falling accidents during earthquakes if constructed using methods predating the establishment of the technical standards in the ceiling space.
Furthermore, under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's Notification No. 282 of 2008, regular inspections and reporting on the seismic retrofitting status of ceilings have been mandated. Owners or managers of buildings found in violation may be subject to penalties (fines of up to 1 million yen).
Buildings subject to ceiling seismic diagnosis
- CEILING EARTHQUAKE -
In response to the ceiling panel detachment incident at an indoor pool in July 2013, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued a notification titled "Prevention of Ceiling Collapse in Buildings with Large Spaces" to raise awareness and ensure safety measures are taken.
Those who own or manage such buildings are required to take measures to ensure safety, including conducting inspections. The notification "Prevention of Ceiling Collapse in Buildings with Large Spaces" applies to the following targets: Large spaces refer to areas with a ceiling height exceeding 6 meters and an area exceeding 200 square meters.
A building used by a large number of people
Airports, large shopping malls, halls, etc.
A building that needs to maintain functionality during disasters
Gyms, community centers, hospitals, fire stations, police stations, etc.
System development
Factories, warehouses, office buildings, data centers, etc.
Measures to be taken regarding the ceiling surface
- CEILING EARTHQUAKE -
Inspect for any warping or sagging of the ceiling surface visually or by other means. Perform an inspection of the ceiling through inspection ports to check for any detachment of ceiling materials such as clips.
If, as a result of the inspection, detachment of ceiling materials such as clips is found, and there is a risk of ceiling collapse, safety measures such as restricting access to the area below the ceiling and implementing measures to prevent ceiling collapse by the owner should be implemented.
Wouldn't you like to turn your concerns into peace of mind with ceiling seismic diagnosis?
- CEILING EARTHQUAKE -
Concerns about the ceiling space
Since the earthquake occurred, I'm worried that somewhere in the suspended ceiling might have been damaged…
Anxieties during earthquakes
Are our current suspended ceilings safe in the event of an earthquake? Will they fall?
Worried about ceiling seismic stability
I understand seismic resistance of structures, but what about seismic resistance of suspended ceilings?
Handled by JACCA Ceiling Seismic Diagnosis Specialists
- CEILING EARTHQUAKE -
JACCA Ceiling Seismic Diagnosis is conducted by holders of national qualifications such as First-Class and Second-Class Architects, First-Class Construction Management Engineers, and Second-Class Construction Management Engineers. (*JACCA is a Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism-approved organization promoting seismic ceiling construction. It operates a seismic guarantee system, guaranteeing the ceiling construction of its members. It has members from all prefectures who are guaranteed for their construction work.)
The website for JACCA can be found here：https://jacca.or.jp/
