Guidebook for Earthquake Protection for Nonstructural Members of School Facilities

Transcription

1 Guidebook for Protection for Nonstructural Members of Facilities Revised Edition Protecting Children from Falling and Tumbling Objects due to an Implementing Resistance Inspection Revised in March 2015 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Japan

2

3 Introduction facilities are places where children who bear the future gather, learn, and act in a lively manner. facilities also serve as a temporary evacuation shelter for local residents when a disaster occurs. Therefore, it is very important to ensure the safety of those facilities. For this purpose, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) is promoting the earthquake resistance of school facilities. The rate of earthquake resistant public elementary and lower secondary schools is 92.5% as of April 1, During recent large earthquakes, however, damage was caused to nonstructural members including falling ceiling materials. In order to help school establishers and personnel deepen their understanding of the importance of earthquake-resistant measures for nonstructural members and inspection/implementation methods so that they would promote such measures, MEXT created Protecting Children from Falling and Tumbling Objects due to an Guidebook for Protection for Nonstructural Members of Facilities in March 2010 and supported their efforts. Later, the Tohoku-Pacific Ocean, which occurred on March 11, 2011, wrought tremendous damage far and wide. In school facilities, too, there were injuries of students and other human damage caused by total collapse of gymnasium ceiling materials; this reminded us of the importance of earthquake protection for nonstructural members. In response, MEXT held the Consultative Committee for Research and Surveys Relating to Promotion of Protection Measures for Facilities' Nonstructural Members (Head: Tsuneo Okada, President of the Japan Building Disaster Prevention Association) to grasp the damage to nonstructural members due to the earthquake, analyze specific damage factors and study countermeasures that are considered to be effective at the time. The committee compiled a report in March A large number of schools have made efforts in earthquake resistance inspection of nonstructural members in their facilities by referring to the guidebook. In order to further promote earthquake protection of nonstructural members, the ministry decided to revise the guidebook in light of the knowledge obtained through the research and surveys mentioned above and the notification concerning measures to prevent ceilings in buildings from falling (technical standards) enforced after the earthquake. The revised book aims to deepen the understanding of earthquake resistance inspection, etc. of nonstructural members and promote countermeasures by defining roles of school establishers and schools and showing concrete inspection items and the direction of countermeasures in an easy-to-understand manner. This guidebook assumes typical elementary/lower secondary school facilities, but its basic concept may apply to kindergartens, upper secondary schools, universities, athletic facilities, etc. that have similar facilities. With the occurrence of Nankai Trough, Tokyo Inland and other large earthquakes anticipated, it is necessary to make nonstructural members safer. We hope that this guidebook will be utilized by school establishers and others for the promotion of earthquake resistance inspection of nonstructural members of school facilities 1

4 About the Guidebook This guidebook is written for checking rust, cracks and other deterioration signs and member fitting methods, identifying the danger of nonstructural members and taking preventive measures in order to prevent large damage due to nonstructural members at the time of an earthquake. Who is this written for? The guidebook was compiled for school establishers and school personnel. It will provide useful information also for professionals who are commissioned by a school establisher. What will they inspect? They will inspect rust, cracks and other signs of deterioration and member fitting methods of nonstructural members of the school. Who will carry out inspection and when? establishers and school personnel will divide responsibility in periodic and continuous inspection in preparation for earthquakes. How will they carry out inspection? They will carry out inspection using an inspection check list while referring to the commentary of the relevant inspection items. <<Structure of the Guidebook>> Chapters 1 to 3 provide basic information to know before carrying out inspection of nonstructural members. We recommend school establishers and schools to read them first. Chapters 4 and 5 consist of a checklist and its commentary for actual inspection. The checklist has inspection items assuming typical school facilities. Please arrange them according to the situation of the school. Chapter 6 lists concrete initiatives taken by school establishers; Chapter 7 lists other reference materials. * The guidebook is not meant for school facility management in general, but organizes nonstructural members to be inspected from the viewpoint of ensuring the safety of students at the time of an earthquake, in particular. 2

5 Table of contents Chapter 1. What is a nonstructural member? 4 (1) Scope of nonstructural members 5 (2) Damage caused by nonstructural members during an earthquake 6 (3) Large-scale earthquakes in recent years and countermeasures 8 Chapter 2. Approach to Inspection 10 (1) Performance expected from nonstructural members 10 (2) Well-planned, continual and efficient inspection 10 (3) Creating a system for inspection and role sharing 10 (4) Consideration of priority 13 Chapter 3. Implementation methods of inspection and responses based on the inspection 14 (1) Utilization of the inspection checklist 14 (2) Types of inspection 14 (3) Responses based on inspection 15 Chapter 4. Inspection Checklists and Commentaries For Personnel 17 (1) Inspection checklists 19 (2) Inspection item 24 Chapter 5. Inspection Checklists and Commentaries For Establishers 35 (1) Inspection checklists 37 (2) Inspection item 42 Chapter 6. Concrete Examples of Inspection 78 (1) Case 1 78 (2) Case 2 80 (3) Case 3 81 Chapter 7. Reference literature 82 (1) Research and Surveys Relating Promotion of Protection Measures for Facilities Nonstructural Members, etc. 82 <List of sources> 84 The whole text of the Guidebook can be seen on the MEXT website (URL 3

6 Ch.1 What is a nonstructural member? Members such as ceiling materials and external walls (armoring materials) that are not included as part of the structure (pillars, beams, floors, etc.) are called nonstructural members in distinction from the structure. Nonstructural members can be damaged even when the structure is not damaged at all. Examples of nonstructural members <Classroom> Ceiling Window/glass External wall (armoring material) Lighting equipment <Special classroom (science room)> Inner wall (interior material) Storage rack 4

7 (1) Scope of nonstructural members Nonstructural members generally refers to ceiling materials and other architectural nonstructural members of building but sometimes includes equipment, furniture, etc. The guidebook encompasses equipment, etc. in addition to architectural nonstructural members in school buildings, gymnasiums and other buildings. In order to ensure the safety of children at the time of an earthquake, it is necessary to implement earthquake protection not only for structural but also for nonstructural members like them. <Gymnasium> Equipment Inner wall (interior material) Lighting equipment Ceiling External wall (armoring material) <Other> Basket goal Piano Window, glass Bookcases in a library Ceiling of a multipurpose hall Shoe racks at an entrance 5

8 (2) Damage caused by nonstructural members during an earthquake Damage caused by nonstructural members during an earthquake include direct human damage caused by nonstructural members falling or tumbling and secondary accidents caused by blocked evacuation routes. Direct human damage - Injury caused by falling ceiling material, tumbling furniture, etc. Secondary accident - Blocked evacuation routes - Fire due to gas/oil leak, etc. Ceiling, wall, glass and other large or heavy materials in a high place or those that would have sharp edges when broken might endanger life if they should fall. Examples of damage to nonstructural members Ceiling materials Fallen ceiling materials in a gymnasium Fallen ceiling materials in a music room Lighting equipment Detached lighting equipment in a science room Fallen lighting equipment in a gymnasium 6

9 Windows/glass Fallen windows Broken glass External wall (armoring material) Fallen armoring material Fallen armoring material Inner wall (interior material) Fallen stage-front wall Damaged partition wall Storage rack, television and others Fallen hanging television Tumbled bookcases Broken glass and stored objects that fell out 7

10 (3) Large-scale earthquakes in recent years and countermeasures Situated in one of the most earthquake-prone regions of the world, Japan has been frequently hit by earthquakes that have caused serious damage. Even only after the Southern Hyogo Prefecture in 1995 there have been three earthquakes of intensity 7 and 38 earthquakes of intensity 6 upper or lower (as of end January 2015.) Because these earthquakes have occurred throughout Japan, it is important to take earthquake protection measures regardless of the region. Even if a building is constructed in compliance with the new earthquake resistance standard, nonstructural members could suffer damage. So it is necessary to implement earthquake resistance inspection and countermeasures for nonstructural members regardless of the earthquake resistance of the building. Epicenters of recent earthquakes(*) October 2004 Mid Niigata Prefecture July 2007 Niigataken Chuetsu-oki September 2003 Tokachi-oki March 2007 Noto Hanto March 2011 Off the Pacific coast of Tohoku August 2005 Off-Miyagi June 2008 Iwate-Miyagi Nairiku March 2001 Geiyo March 2005 West Off Fukuoka Prefecture January 1995 Southern Hyogo Prefecture * Epicenters of earthquakes stronger than intensity 6 lower after the Southern Hyogo Prefecture (1995) (names are added to major earthquakes). Created based on materials of the Japan Meteorological Agency. 8

11 History of earthquake resistance enhancement measures for nonstructural members (in school facilities) Every time that nonstructural members suffered significant damage due to an earthquake, responses were made, including technical advice provided by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, but there is a variety of nonstructural members, and for some of them an earthquake resistance enhancement method has not yet been established. Their earthquake protection is delayed in comparison to the protection of structure. As of April 1, 2014, the ratio of earthquake resistant structures in public elementary and lower secondary schools across the country is over 90% but it is necessary to enhance earthquake resistance of nonstructural members in order to ensure the safety of children, pupils, etc. Major earthquakes* Characteristic damage and earthquake resistance enhancement for nonstructural members June 1978 Miyagi-oki Damage to a large number of glass, ALC panels and others October 1978 June 1981 November 1985 January 1995 October 1995 Southern Hyogo Prefecture Revision of For establishing construction method of roofing materials, cladding and curtain walls facing outdoors (the Construction Ministry Notification No. 109 in 1971) (enforced in April 1979) Use of curable sealant was prohibited for fixed windows installed in curtain walls Enforcement of the Order for Enforcement of the Building Standard Act Application of new earthquake resistance standards Guide, Commentary and Working Instruction for -Resistant Construction of Nonstructural Members (Architectural Institute of Japan) Damage to a large number of ceilings and others March 2001 Geiyo Falling ceiling in gymnasiums, etc. June 2001 March 2002 July 2003 September 2003 Tokachi-oki Ceiling of an airport building fell. October 2003 October 2004 March 2005 Mid Niigata Prefecture West Off Fukuoka Prefecture The Act on Promotion of Seismic Retrofitting of Buildings was established Sending a report of Geiyo damage inspection (technical advice) (No. 357 of the Building Guidance Division, Housing Bureau, MLIT) Steady braces and clearances for suspended ceilings Investigative Survey Report on the Seismic Inspection of Nonstructural Members in Facilities (Architectural Institute of Japan) Compiled inspection methods, etc. in schools Guideline for Improving the Seismic Resistance of Facilities (MEXT) Defined the policy to promote earthquake protection and also mentioned the importance of inspection, etc. of nonstructural members. Measures against falling ceilings in buildings with large open spaces (technical advice) (No of the Building Guidance Division, Housing Bureau, MLIT) Ceilings, external walls, etc. of school facilities fell. A large number of windowpanes of SRC office buildings broke and fell. August 2005 Off-Miyagi Ceiling of a sport facility (heated pool) fell. August 2005 March 2007 Noto Hanto Fall of entire ceilings, etc. July 2007 June 2008 March 2010 March 2011 July 2013 August 2013 August 2013 Niigataken Chuetsu-oki Iwate-Miyagi Nairiku Off the Pacific coast of Tohoku For intensifying measures to prevent ceiling collapse at the time of an earthquake (technical advice) (No.1427 of the Building Guidance Division, Housing Bureau, MLIT) Second dissemination of the technical advice in 2003 Ceilings of school facilities and other large spaces fell. Windowpanes, external walls, ceilings and other materials were damaged and fell. Protecting Children from Falling and Tumbling Objects due to an Guidebook for Protection for Nonstructural Members of Facilities (MEXT) Damage to various nonstructural members including ceilings, window panes, interior/outer walls Revision of the Order for Enforcement of the Building Standard Act Provision of measures to prevent specified ceilings About the establishment of specified ceilings and their safe construction method in terms of structural resistance (MLIT Notification No.771) Announcement of technical standard related to suspended ceilings About further promotion of measures to prevent ceilings, etc. from falling in school facilities Guide for measures to prevent ceiling, etc. from falling in school facilities (MEXT) Requesting school establishers to take measures for ceilings, etc. March 2014 The Research and Survey Report Regarding Promotion of Protection for Nonstructural Members in Facilities (MEXT) *List of major earthquakes with characteristic damage to nonstructural members after the Miyagi-oki earthquake in

12 Ch.2 Approach to inspection In order to ensure safety at the time of an earthquake, it is important to find any abnormalities and implement countermeasures at an early stage. It is necessary for school establishers to take responsibility in inspection and formulate a cooperative system with school personnel, experts and others. (1) Performance expected from nonstructural members Performance expected from nonstructural members during an earthquake includes safety, functional maintenance and reparability. Here, the purpose is to secure safety and functional maintenance considering the functions expected from school facilities, including ensuring the safety of students and those of evacuation shelters for the community. (2) Well-planned, continual and efficient inspection As there is a wide variety of nonstructural members, earthquake resistance measures have not been sufficiently established for some of them. In this context, it is important to check for cracks and other signs of deterioration as well as member mounting methods, take the correct preventive measures, and thereby ensure safety at the time of an earthquake. For this purpose, it is important for the school establisher who is the administrator of the facilities to develop policies and implementation plans pertaining to earthquake resistance inspections of nonstructural members and implement them in a well-planned manner. It is important to implement inspection as early as possible in preparation for an earthquake that could occur. However, if early implementation is difficult due to the large expense involved, it is important to gradually implement what you can do now considering priority. Because some nonstructural members deteriorate over time, it is necessary to inspect them continuously. If there is a legally obligated safety inspection, it is efficient to implement inspection of nonstructural members taking the opportunity. (3) Creating a system for inspection and role sharing Creating a system for inspection It is necessary for the school establisher, who supervises the facilities, to take responsibility for the implementation of earthquake resistance inspections of nonstructural members. To ensure the smooth implementation of inspections, it is important for school establishers to work with the school, related departments, and experts including architects. Role of school establisher The school establisher decides on the inspection policy and implementation plan defining the purpose, implementing body, timing, items, methods and other matters. It is important to implement inspections from a technical perspective, examine the danger and need of measures based on the inspection results and then develop an improvement plan and implement measures. Because it is sometimes difficult to determine the need for improvement and to choose an adequate method, it is important to implement inspections and measures while consulting with experts as needed. establishers may need to implement the investigation or inspection based on Article 12 of the Building Standards Act depending on the scale, etc. of the school. Because this examination or inspection is conducted on the deterioration state of the building by a first-class architect, inspections concerning deterioration may be implemented together with the former or using its result. 10

13 Role of school personnel Because school personnel use school facilities on a daily basis, they can discover defects in facilities and equipment during daily activities and sense danger In light of the above, school personnel are expected to discover rust, cracking and other abnormalities mostly by sight and check their state of progress. It is important to report the inspection results to the school establisher while implementing measures that the schools can take, including the review of furniture arrangement and simple fixing at an early stage. Inspections implemented by school personnel include the safety inspection provided for in the Health and Safety Act. Because the safety inspection is for overall facilities and equipment that children, pupils, etc. use on a daily basis, the inspection of nonstructural members may be implemented as part of the safety inspection. Role Perspective Response based on the inspection Topic for reference establisher - takes responsibility for the implementation of inspections as the supervisor of the facilities - decides on the inspection policy and implementation plan - implements inspections from a technical perspective while consulting with experts as needed. - examines the danger and need for measures - develops an improvement plan and measures. personnel - implements inspections for early detection of abnormalities as a daily user of the facilities - discovers abnormalities mostly by sight and checks their state of progress - reports the inspection results to the school establisher - implements measures that the school can handle Safety inspection of school facilities/equipment based on the Health and Safety Act The Health and Safety Act provides that a school shall implement safety inspections for possible abnormalities of school facilities and equipment that are used by children, pupils, etc. in their daily life in order to create an environment that ensures their safety. (Outline) Type of safety inspection Regular safety inspection Special safety inspection Day-to-day safety inspection Timing, method, etc. Scope Legal basis, etc. More than once every school term In a well-planned manner or systematically by all the school personnel Once every month In a well-planned manner or systematically by all the school personnel When needed - before or after an athletic meeting, school arts festival, cultural festival, exhibition or other school events - after a rain storm, earthquake, fire in the neighborhood and other disaster - when a crime (invasion, arson, etc.) that could cause harm has occurred in the neighborhood Every regular school day Facilities and equipment used by children, pupils, etc. and equipment for fire-prevention, disaster-prevention and crime-prevention site, playground, classrooms, special classrooms, corridors, entrances, balconies, stairs, toilets, washrooms, kitchen, rooftop and other places that are believed to be frequently used by children, pupils, etc. Inspection items are decided as appropriate Places where children, pupils, etc. are believed to do their activities most frequently Source: Safety Education at s to Cultivate a Zest for Living, MEXT Shall be conducted systematically more than once every school term concerning possible abnormalities of facilities and equipment for ordinary use by children, pupils, etc.(article 28-1of the Ordinance) There is no specific provision; often implemented pursuant to Article 29-1 above based on the situation of the school. A special safety inspection shall be carried out ad hoc at the school when this is necessary (Article 28-2 of the Ordinance) A school shall carry out day-to-day equipment checks, etc. to ensure the safety of its environment (Article 29 of the Ordinance) 11

14 Topic for reference Regular examination, etc. based on Article 12 of the Building Standards Act The act provides that the owner or the administrator of a building shall have a first-class architect conduct regular examination including the inspection of the state of deterioration including damage to and corrosion of the building in order to maintain and manage the building and ensure safety. Items, methods and criteria of the examination/inspection are established by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure Transport and Tourism Notification: (Outline) Scope of facilities and equipment (1) Special building, the total floor area of which exceeds 100m 2 (2) Office, etc. with more than five floors and a total area exceeding 1,000m 2 (3) Elevators and play facilities Among them those specified by the specified administrative agency. * Special building: schools/ gymnasiums, hospitals, clinics, homes for the aged, child welfare facilities, theaters, public halls, assembly halls, public bath houses, inns, hotels, apartment houses, dormitories, ski resorts, skating rinks, swimming places, sports practice areas, warehouses, garages, etc. Parts to inspect Qualified inspector Inspection frequency [Site] Sites, ground, fences, retaining walls [Building construction] Foundation, wooden structures, masonry structures, reinforced concrete block construction, steel construction, reinforced concrete construction, steel-framed reinforced concrete construction, special structures (membrane, seismic isolation structures), stairs, balconies [Building finishing] Roofs, external walls (exterior finishing materials, etc.), floors, ceilings, walls, window sashes, etc., rooftops, parapets, coping, drains, lightening arrester equipment, machinery and structures (cooling towers, advertising pillars, etc.), lighting equipment, suspended objects, building materials containing asbestos, and advertising boards, external units for air-conditioning equipment, etc. bound to an external wall *The first inspection on the deterioration state of tiles, stone pitching, mortar, etc. over 10 years after construction/external wall repairing is carried out by tapping with a test hammer, etc. over entire surfaces at risk of causing hazards to pedestrians, etc. [Fire retarding division] Fire doors, shutters and other similar things, smoke proofing walls [Elevators] Elevators, escalators, goods elevators [Play facilities] Roller coasters, Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, water slides, etc. [Smoke eliminating equipment] Smoke outlets, air inlets, bore evacuators, air supply fans, air ducts (smoke exhaust / air supply), manual releasing devices, bore evacuators directly connected to an engine, smoke detectors, mobile smoke proofing walls [Ventilating equipment] Smoke outlets, air inlets, bore evacuators, air-charging systems, air ducts, stacks, exhaust hoods, air-conditioning systems (central control), fire dampers [Emergency lighting system] Emergency lighting equipment (with incorporated battery or separate power source), storage battery, private power generation system [Plumbing system] water supply piping, drain piping, pumps, wastewater reuse systems, gas water heaters, electric water heaters, sanitary fixture, drink water supply/storage tanks, sump tanks [Site, building construction, building finishing and fire retarding division] First-class architect, second-class architect, qualified special building investigator [Elevators and play facilities] First-class architect, second-class architect, qualified elevator tester [Other building equipment] First-class architect, second-class architect, qualified building equipment investigator [Site, building construction, building finishing and fire retarding division] Conducted at intervals roughly from six months to three years as specified by the specified administrative agency (excluding the period just after receiving a certificate of inspection) [Elevators and play facilities] Conducted at intervals roughly from six months to one year as specified by the specified administrative agency (excluding the period just after receiving a certificate of inspection) [Other building equipment] Conducted at intervals roughly from six months to one year as specified by the specified administrative agency (excluding the period just after receiving a certificate of inspection) 12 Note 1: Order for Enforcement of the Building Standards Act was revised in July 2013 to define suspended ceilings above a certain size (with a height exceeding 6m, horizontal projection area exceeding 200m 2 and a mass per unit area exceeding 2kg) as specified ceilings that shall meet new technical standards (enforced on April 1, 2014) In November 2014, a notification was released establishing items, methods, etc. of regular inspection based on the provision of Article 12 of the Building Standards Act, establishing items and methods of examination in a building regular investigation report and inspection in regular inspection, judgment criteria of their results and a list of results (2008 MLIT Notification No.282), making investigation of the deterioration and damage state of the material of specified ceiling mandatory (enforced on April 1, 2015). Note 2: The Act for Partial Revision of the Building Standards Act (Act No. 54 of June 4, 2014) was promulgated in June 2014 but the part pertaining to the revision of Article 12 of the Act is not yet enforced as of March 2015 and the table above applies until its enforcement. After enforcement of the revision, it will be necessary to carry out regular investigation, etc. in conformity with the relevant governmental and ministerial ordinances that will be enforced together with the revision.

15 (4) Consideration of priority Ceilings, walls, glass and other large or heavy materials in a high place or those that would have sharp edges when broken might endanger life if they should fall. This guidebook assumes typical elementary and lower secondary school facilities and specifies objects that would be particularly dangerous if they should fall. It is important for school establishers to study the priority of earthquake resistance inspection and measures in reference to the commentary on the respective inspection items and according to the situation of the school. If a new standard is provided as in the case of suspended ceilings, it is necessary to carry out the inspection on a priority basis. Topics for reference 1. Damage to nonstructural members of public school facilities caused by the Tohoku-Pacific Ocean (1) Damage to nonstructural members of school buildings and gymnasiums Ceiling Glass Exterior Interior EXP.J (expansion joint) Falling off: 150 Broken: 236 Breakage: 188 Broken/fallen off board: 21 Broken/fallen of board: 32 Total: 236 Total: 338 Cracked: 609 Breakage: 806 Cracked: 789 Total: 630 Total: 821 Total: buildings Table 1. Damage to nonstructural members of school buildings (2) Relationship between damage state and building year/earthquake resistance reinforcement, etc. New Resistance Standards (2001-) New Resistance Standards ( ) New Resistance Standards ( ) Reinforced Reinforcement not needed Not yet reinforced Total falling off Partial falling off Breakage No report of damage Partial falling off: Ceiling 88 Total: 152 Total falling off: 25 Breakage: 39 Lighting Falling off: 72 Breakage: 107 Total: 194 Fallen off parts: 15 Fallen off basket goals: 3 Fallen off speakers: 6 Exercise Total: 44 apparatus Broken basket goals: 33 Fallen off parts: 15 Broken fixed steel sash: 9 Glass Broken glass of movable Total: 220 Exterior Wall of proscenium Fell off together with glass: 34 Falling off: 97 Breakage: 23 Total: 37 sash: 142 Fallen off: 14 Falling Other interior Cracked: 167 off: 52 Breakage: Eaves soffit Falling off: Broken fixed aluminum sash: 35 Cracked: 240 Total: 131 Other: 83 Total: 302 Other: 42 Total: gymnasiums Table 2. Damage to nonstructural members of gymnasiums 2. Damage to equipment/fixture caused by the Southern Hyogo Prefecture Equipment/fixture that tumbled or fell (top 10 in damage percentage) (Kobe) Equipment/fixture 1. Tumbled library bookcase 2. Tumbled bookcase 3. Fallen computer 4. Tumbled critical-document safe 5. Tumbled locker for cleaning tools 6. Fallen television 7. Tumbled chemical closet 8. Tumbled computer Percentage No. of damaged fixtures Total number of fixtures Number of buildings Table 3. Relationship of vibration damage of ceiling with building year and diagnosis/reinforcement status Source: The Research and Survey Report Regarding Promotion of Protection Measures for Facilities Nonstructural Members, etc. March 2014, the Consultative Committee for Research and Surveys Relating to Promotion of Protection Measures for Facilities Nonstructural Members 9. Tumbled refrigerator 10. Fallen OHP * Great Hanshin-Awaji Steps Toward Redevelopment and Creation of Education in Kobe (Kobe Board of Education) Topics for reference - One of the methods to decide priority in external wall inspection and measures is to calculate the seismic index (I N) of nonstructural members based on the external wall construction method (building deformation, deformation following performance of the external wall, age, etc.), influence degree (traffic just below the wall, existence of eaves, etc.) and other factors. ( Seismic Diagnosis Criteria and Commentary for Existing Reinforced Concrete Buildings, 2001 Revised Version Japan Building Disaster Prevention Association)* - Based on this concept, s and Commentary for Assessment of the Safety of External Walls Against s was compiled by the Building and Equipment Long-life Cycle Association and the Japan Building Disaster Prevention Association to help smooth the assessment of safety. * Currently the Japan Building Disaster Prevention Association is further studying the seismic diagnosis of nonstructural members. 13

16 Ch.3 Implementation methods for inspection, and responses based on the inspection Inspection is implemented using a checklist arranged based on the situation of the school. It is necessary to be mindful that inspection frequency may vary depending on the inspection content. It is important to take appropriate safety measures based on the inspection result. (1) Utilization of the inspection checklist Inspection is implemented using the inspection checklist provided in Chapters 4 and 5. The checklist includes the inspection items that are considered desirable to implement in typical elementary and lower secondary school facilities based on the past damage, etc. Because the list is not exhaustive, it is important to arrange it based on the situation of the school, the type of classroom, and other factors. * The inspection checklist is available on the MEXT website in an Excel format to enable arrangement based on the situation of the school (URL (2) Types of inspection Below are inspections to be implemented by school personnel and school establishers: Inspections implemented by the school personnel - protection inspection of nonstructural members implemented by the school personnel generally may include 1) to 3) below. - It is important to implement inspections in a planned manner studying the content and frequency based on the situation of the school. - You may implement the inspection as part of the safety inspection based on Article 27 of the Health and Safety Act. 1) protection inspection for furniture, etc. Check whether any measures have been taken to prevent furniture, equipment, etc. in immediate surroundings from tumbling or falling by fixing them to a wall, for example. Basically they are not greatly affected by secular change, but may be inspected about once a year because there can be a change in layout. Content: Check whether any earthquake protection measures have been taken to prevent furniture, equipment, pianos, etc. from tumbling or falling, for example. Frequency: about once a year 2) inspection of nonstructural members Because some nonstructural members may have rust, cracks, etc. due to aging, which may reduce their earthquake performance, it is necessary to detect abnormalities and their state of progress. This inspection may be implemented about once every school term Content: check for cracks in mortar and other degradation signs of nonstructural members and the status of their progress Frequency: about once every school term 3) Check how furniture, etc. are used Even with measures to prevent tumbling, etc., furniture, etc. can be dangerous at the time of an earthquake depending on how they are used (heavy objects mounted in high places, for example). So, regularly check how furniture, etc. are used. Content: check how they are used on a daily basis. For example, are there any heavy objects mounted in high places? Frequency: implement regularly 14

17 Inspections implemented by the school establisher - protection inspection for nonstructural members implemented by the school establisher generally include 1) to 3) below. - It is important to implement inspections in a planned manner considering the content and frequency based on the situation of the school establisher. - It is necessary to commission an expert to carry out examination/inspection depending on the content. 1) Simultaneous earthquake protection inspection Because some nonstructural members may be installed using methods or materials having low earthquake performance, it is necessary to inspect all nonstructural members once based on their drawings/specifications and a field survey. Content: An expert shall check earthquake performance including measures to prevent the ceiling from falling and the outer wall construction method Frequency: once across the school in a planned manner * Because these nonstructural members are basically not affected by aging, etc., they don t need another inspection. However, inspection will be necessary if a new standard is established by a legislative amendment, etc. 2) Regular degradation inspection Because some nonstructural members may have rust, cracks, etc. due to aging which may reduce their earthquake performance, it is necessary to implement regular inspections of their degradation state from a technical perspective based on the inspection results reported by the school. For some items you may use the inspection based on Article 12 of the Building Standards Act. Content: checking for cracks in mortar and other degradation signs as well as their level of danger Frequency: about once every three years 3) Contingent degradation inspection If a degradation situation was found in an inspection conducted by the school personnel and it requires urgent response, it is necessary to implement a detailed inspection specially without waiting for the next regular inspection. Content: checking the degradation state and its level of danger based on the school s report or request Frequency: as needed Inspection implemented after a disaster by the school and the school establisher After an earthquake, strong wind, heavy rain or other disaster, fixing parts or invisible members may be affected, lowering their earthquake protection even if there is no visible sign of damage. So it is important to check for abnormalities in nonstructural members for parts that may be affected by the disaster, using this guidebook. However, it is sometimes dangerous to enter a building after a large earthquake. It is necessary to ensure safety by staying away from the building until an emergency risk assessment or other check by an expert is completed. (3) Responses based on inspection It is important for the school to report the inspection results to the school establisher while promptly implementing measures that it can take. It is important for the school establisher to study the level of danger and need for measures based on the inspection results and develop an improvement plan. When developing a plan, it is important to take measures against high risk issues urgently on a priority basis while addressing others step by step, taking large-scale refurbishment and other opportunities. Because damage to nonstructural members may be caused by deformation of structure, it is sometimes necessary to consider earthquake protection measures integrally with the structure beyond individual nonstructural members. In addition to this guidebook, Case Studies of Protection Measures for Nonstructural Members of Facilities and Case Studies of Measures to Prevent Gymnasium Ceilings from Falling compiled by MEXT will serve as a useful reference. These materials are available on the ministry s website. 15

18 Examples of earthquake protection inspections and responses Developing an inspection policy establisher (Overall coordination of inspections and measures) (liaison/coordination) Development of inspection policy (Sorting out the purpose, implementing body, methods, timing and other matters of inspection) Development of inspection implementation plan (Studying specific inspection points, timing, methods, etc.) Implementing inspection personnel Consideration of incorporating into the safety inspection by the school personnel Arranging the checklist based on the situation of the school Implementing inspection Inspection of earthquake protection for furniture (implemented about once a year) Inspection of degradation state of nonstructural members (implemented about once every school term) Inspection of how furniture, etc. are used (implemented regularly) Implemented continuously Inspection after a disaster (implemented after a disaster) *Implemented after checking by an Emergency Risk Discriminator after a large earthquake (Reporting the results) establisher Commissioning experts as needed Arranging the checklist based on the situation of the school Implementing inspection *Implementing an inspection of degradation state by reference to the school s report Simultaneous earthquake protection inspection for nonstructural members (Once implemented for the entire school in a planned manner) Regular inspection of degradation state (implemented about once every three years) Contingent inspection of degradation state (implemented as needed) Inspection after a disaster (implemented after a disaster) *Implemented after checking by an Emergency Risk Discriminator after a large earthquake Implemented each time there is a revision, etc. of the standards Implemented continuously Response based on the inspection personnel Implementing measures *Measures the school personnel can take - Reviewing the layout of furniture, etc. - Simple fixing of furniture, etc. establisher Commissioning experts as needed Studying the danger and need for measures Developing an improvement plan - Measures that should be implemented on a priority basis in order to reduce major risks - Measures to be implemented taking a large scale refurbishment and other opportunities Studying methods and implementing measures 16

19 Ch.4 Inspection Checklists and Commentaries For Personnel- 17

20 Inspection Checklists and Commentaries For Personnel Purpose of inspections implemented by the school personnel - personnel that use the facilities on a daily basis implements inspection for early detection of abnormalities in facilities, equipment, etc. - The school implements inspections mostly by sight to detect abnormal parts and check their state of progress. Implementation methods - Use the Inspection Checklist (for school personnel) provided on the following pages. - Inspection results are reported to the school establisher. s should be vigilant for cases where cracks or other abnormalities are found, degradation has progressed, or the school cannot judge whether it is abnormal or not, because these cases require detailed inspection. - It is important to promptly implement measures that the school can take based on the inspection results. Type and frequency of inspection - Inspections are roughly divided into three types: those concerning earthquake protection, those concerning degradation and those concerning use. Specifically they are classified into the following three: 1) protection inspection for furniture, etc. (implemented about once a year) 2) inspection for nonstructural members (about once every school term) 3) Inspection of how furniture, etc. are used (implemented on a daily basis) How to use the checklists - Print out the checklists on the following pages. Create a checklist for each place, such as classroom, special classroom (music room, science room, etc.), corridor, stairs, entrance, toilet, and gymnasium, - For specific inspection content, see (2) Inspection item (pp.24 34). - The checklist lists inspection items that are especially preferable to implement but schools are expected to arrange the lists based on the situation of the school, expert opinions, and other factors. - Because classrooms are often used for different classes every school year, you may number places serially for efficient management. - You may attach photos, simple figures, etc. of the discovered abnormalities to the checklist for effective information sharing and follow-up. * You can download Chapter 4 Inspection Checklists and Commentaries (for school personnel) separately from the MEXT website (URL for convenient use at school. The lists are in Excel format to enable arrangement according to the situation of the school and type of the classroom. * Sources of photographs and figures are listed on P

21 - Stained - Rusty - Rotten - Have cracks - Cut - Torn - Broken - Cracked - Bulging - Soft - Fell out - Rickety - Bent - Distorted - Sagging - Leaning - Out of alignment - Hanging - Dangling - Ready to fall Page for ref. Use Use (1) Inspection checklists Inspection checklist (for school personnel) <<Inspection result>> A: no abnormalities found, or measures have been taken B: could not judge whether or not there are abnormalities C: an obvious abnormality was found Date of inspection Filled-in by Inspected site (Circle applicable item) Room name Building name Serial number Story Gymnasium Classroom Special class room Corridor Foyer Outside Other Deterioration status *Put O in the applicable box No. Inspection item Falling off Deformation Separation Cracks, breaks Alteration Inspection result (A, B, C) *Circle applicable letter Special remarks (Specifics of abnormal point, situation, etc. ) I. Ceilings (1) Ceilings Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? 25 A B C II. Lighting equipment (1) Lighting equipment Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation or corrosion, in lighting equipment? 25 A B C III. Windows/glass (1) Glass Are there no abnormalities, such as cracks, in the windowpanes? 26 A B C (2) Windows, doors Are there no abnormalities in opening/closing of the window or door, including obstruction and heaviness? 26 A B C (3) Sash fastener Are the sash fasteners of windows not fastened? 27 A B C (4) Periphery of a windowpane Are there no objects that are near a window and might hit the windowpane? 27 A B C (5) Doors, etc. Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation, corrosion and looseness in classroom doors and other inner fittings? 27 A B C IV. Outer walls (armoring material) (1) Outer walls (armoring material) Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in outer walls? 28 A B C V. Inner walls (interior material) (1) Inner walls (interior material) Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in inner walls? 28 A B C VI. Equipment items (1) Broadcast equipment /athletic instruments Is the main unit not leaning? Is the mounting bracket not corroded, broken, etc.? 29 A B C (2) Air conditioner outdoor units Are no air conditioner outdoor units tilted? 29 A B C 19

22 - Stained - Rusty - Rotten - Have cracks - Cut - Torn - Broken - Cracked - Bulging - Soft - Fell out - Rickety - Bent - Distorted - Sagging - Leaning - Out of alignment - Hanging - Dangling - Ready to fall Page for ref. protection protection protection protection Use Use protection Use Deterioration status *Put O in the applicable box No. Inspection item Falling off Deformation Separation Cracks, breaks Alteration Inspection result (A, B, C) *Circle applicable letter Special remarks (Specifics of abnormal point, situation, etc. ) VII. Televisions, etc. (1) Hanging televisions Is the television unit fixed to the hanging rack? 30 A B C (2) Television, PC, etc. on a rack Have any measures been taken to prevent the television, PC, etc. from tumbling or falling? 30 A B C (3) TV rack, etc. with casters Have any measures been taken to prevent TV racks, electronic whiteboards, racks with casters, etc. from moving or tumbling? 3'(1) A B C VIII. Storage racks, etc. (1) Racks, lockers, etc. Are bookcases, racks for chemicals, lockers, etc. secured to a wall or the floor using mounting hardware? 3'(1) A B C (2) Items on a shelf Are there no heavy objects placed on a shelf? 32 A B C (3) Items on a rack for chemicals Have any measures been taken to prevent drug containers, etc. from breaking or falling out? 32 A B C IX. Pianos, etc. (1) Pianos, etc. Have any measures been taken to prevent pianos from skidding or tumbling? 33 A B C X. Expansion joints (1) Covering material of expansion joint Are there no deformations in material covering expansion joints? Are no pieces of such material coming off? 34 A B C (2) Expansion joints and their periphery Are there no objects placed on expansion joints or in their surroundings? 34 A B C *Add any new inspection items in the blank spaces. 20

23 - Stained - Rusty - Rotten - Have cracks - Cut - Torn - Broken - Cracked - Bulging - Soft - Fell out - Rickety - Bent - Distorted - Sagging - Leaning - Out of alignment - Hanging - Dangling - Ready to fall Page for ref. Use <Example of description> Enter the name of the person filling in the form and the date of inspection for each site inspected. Enter the serial number Inspection checklist (for school personnel) No. <<Inspection result>> A: no abnormalities found, or measures have been taken B: could not judge whether or not there are abnormalities C: an obvious abnormality was found Put a circle in the boxes for the degradation found. Inspection item Date of inspection Filled-in by Inspected site (Circle applicable item) Room name XX YY Building name DD MM Corridor on the north side Deterioration status *Put O in the applicable box Falling off Deformation Separation Cracks, breaks Alteration Serial number 9 Building A Story 2nd floor Gymnasium Classroom Special class room Corridor Foyer Outside Other Write matters worth special mention, such as specific points of abnormality. Inspection result (A, B, C) (enlarge the column for convenient entering) *Circle applicable letter Special remarks (Specifics of abnormal point, situation, etc. ) I. Ceilings (1) Ceilings Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? 25 A B C Patch of damp on the ceiling outside a toilet It has become larger than before (see the attached photos) II. Lighting equipment (1) Lighting equipment III. Windows/glass Circle A, B or C based on the comprehensive Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation or corrosion, in lighting 25 judgment of the degradation state column equipment? and the abnormalities. A B C (1) Glass Are there no abnormalities, such as cracks, in the windowpanes? 26 A B C Regarding boxes with a diagonal (2) Windows, doors line, the applicable degradation is not assumed, so don t fill in those (3) Sash fastener boxes. Are there no abnormalities in opening/closing of the window or door, including obstruction and heaviness? Are the sash fasteners of windows not fastened? A B C A B C A window in front of the classroom of Grade X Class Y is hard to open Example of attached photo Serial number: 9 D/M: Patch of damp on the ceiling outside a toilet D/M: The patch of damp on the ceiling outside the toilet has become larger 21

24 Use Use Use Use Use protection protection protection protection protection protection Use protection protection Use protection <<Arrangement example>> Remove unneeded items and add special items to each place to be inspected. (See the red text in the example below) <Example of classroom> - Remove outer wall - Remove hanging TV - Add large projector, etc. <Example of special classroom (music room)> - Remove outer wall - Add audio equipment - Add instrument rack, large instrument, etc. <Example of exterior> - Remove indoor items - Specially mention underside of eaves in ceiling - Specially mention eaves in outer wall - Add gutters, etc. No. Inspection item No. Inspection item No. Inspection item I. Ceilings I. Ceilings I. Ceilings (1) Ceilings Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? (1) Ceilings Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? (1) Ceilings (underside of eaves) Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? II. Lighting equipment II. Lighting equipment II. Lighting equipment (1) Lighting equipment Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation or corrosion, in lighting equipment? (1) Lighting equipment Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation or corrosion, in lighting equipment? (1) Lighting equipment Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation or corrosion, in lighting equipment? III. Windows/glass III. Windows/glass III. Windows/glass (1) Glass Are there no abnormalities, such as cracks, in the windowpanes? (1) Glass Are there no abnormalities, such as cracks, in the windowpanes? (1) Glass Are there no abnormalities, such as cracks, in the windowpanes? (2) Windows, doors (3) Sash fastener (4) Periphery of a windowpane (5) Doors, etc. V. Inner walls (interior material) (1) Inner walls (interior material) VI. Equipment items (1) (2) Are there no abnormalities in opening/closing of the window or door, including obstruction and heaviness? Are the sash fasteners of windows not fastened? Are there no objects that are near a window and might hit the windowpane? Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation, corrosion and looseness in classroom doors and other inner fittings? Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in inner walls? Is the main unit not leaning? Is the Broadcast equipment mounting bracket not corroded, broken, /athletic instruments etc.? Air conditioner outdoor units VII. Televisions, etc. (2) (3) Television, PC, etc. on a rack TV rack, etc. with casters (4) Large projector VIII. Storage racks, etc. (1) Racks, lockers, etc. (2) Items on a shelf Are no air conditioner outdoor units tilted? Have any measures been taken to prevent the television, PC, etc. from tumbling or falling? Have any measures been taken to prevent TV racks, electronic whiteboards, racks with casters, etc. from moving or tumbling? Are no mounting parts of the projector or screen loose? Are bookcases, racks for chemicals, lockers, etc. secured to a wall or the floor using mounting hardware? Are there no heavy objects placed on a shelf? (2) Windows, doors (3) Sash fastener (4) Periphery of a windowpane (5) Doors, etc. V. Inner walls (interior material) (1) Inner walls (interior material) VI. Equipment items (1) Are there no abnormalities in opening/closing of the window or door, including obstruction and heaviness? Are the sash fasteners of windows not fastened? Are there no objects that are near a window and might hit the windowpane? Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation, corrosion and looseness in classroom doors and other inner fittings? Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in inner walls? Is the main unit not leaning? Is the Broadcast equipment mounting bracket not corroded, broken, /athletic instruments etc.? VII. Televisions, etc. (1) Hanging televisions (2) Audio equipment VIII. Storage racks, etc. (1) Instrument racks, lockers, etc. (2) Items on a shelf IX. Pianos, etc. (1) Pianos, etc. (2) Large instrument Is the television unit fixed to the hanging rack? Have any measures been taken to prevent the audio equipment from tumbling or falling? Are instrument storage racks, lockers, etc. secured to a wall or the floor using mounting hardware? Are there no heavy objects placed on a shelf? Have any measures been taken to prevent pianos from skidding or tumbling? Have any measures been taken to prevent them from skidding or tumbling? IV. Outer walls (armoring material) (1) Outer wall/eaves (armoring material) (2) Gutters, etc. VI. Equipment items (1) (2) Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in the outer wall/eaves? Are there no abnormalities in gutters, etc.? Is the main unit not leaning? Is the Broadcast equipment mounting bracket not corroded, broken, /athletic instruments etc.? Air conditioner outdoor units X. Expansion joints (1) (2) Covering material of expansion joint Are no air conditioner outdoor units tilted? Are there no deformations in material covering expansion joints? Are no pieces of such material coming off? Are there no objects placed on Expansion joints and expansion joints or in their their periphery surroundings? 22

25 Expansion joints and their periphery Covering material of expansion joint Pianos, etc. Items on a rack for chemicals Items on a shelf Racks, lockers, etc. TV rack, etc. with casters Television on a rack Hanging televisions Air conditioner outdoor units Broadcast equipment /athletic instruments Inner walls Outer walls Doors, etc. Periphery of a windowpane Sash fastener Windows, doors Glass Lighting equipment Ceilings Serial number Room name Story Building name <<Example of summary sheet for the entire school>> Summary sheet of inspection checklist (for the school) name XX Elementary Inspection date YY/MM/DD Special remarks (Specifics of abnormal point, situation, etc. ) A 1 Entrance 1 A A A A A A A B A A Hallway 2 A A A A A A A A A A Corridor 3 A A A A A A A A A A Stairs 4 A A A A A A A A Toilet 5 A A A A A A A A A Teachers' room 6 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Principal's office 7 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A 2 Stairs 8 A A A A A A A A Corridor 9 C A B C A A A A A A Toilet 10 A A A A A A A B A Warehouse 11 A A A A A A A A A A B A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A Patch of damp on the ceiling, abnormality in opening/closing of the window 3 Stairs 15 A A A A A A A A Corridor 16 A A A A A A A A A A Toilet 17 A A A A A A A B A Science room 18 A A A A A A A B A A A A A A Science preparation room 19 C A A A A A A B A A A A A Sagging ceiling material Music room 20 A A A A A A A B A A A A A A Music preparation room 21 A A A A A A B B A A A A Exterior (north) 22 A A A B A A Cracks are found here and there on the wall Exterior (east) 23 A A A A A A Exterior (south) 24 B A A B A A A Cracks are found here and there on the wall B Gymnasium 1 2 Examples of floor plan (with serial numbers) Expansion joint Toilet North Corridor Warehouse Stairs East South Building A 2nd floor plan 23

26 (2) Inspection item Specific inspection contents and methods as well as a commentary on them are provided for each item in the checklist. Inspection item Indicates the sites, elements, etc. to be inspected and points of inspection. Inspection methods and types* Inspection methods and types assumed for each inspection item are specified. Commentary 1 The commentary on the inspection item shows danger at the time of disaster, points of inspection, etc. Commentary 2 Shows examples of measures based on the inspection results, and points, etc. when implementing measures. Figures, photographs, etc. Illustrate inspection items and a commentary for them using figures, photos, etc. * Inspection methods and types - Inspection method 1) Visual inspection: The inspector conducts a direct visual check or a check using binoculars 2) Sounding: Sounding with a test hammer to assess the condition based on the pitch, etc. of the generated sound 3) Manipulation: checking for abnormalities in members by touching them or moving them - Types of inspection 1) protection: checking whether earthquake protection measures including prevention of tumbling/falling for furniture, equipment, piano, etc. have been taken 2) : checking for degradation such as shears and cracks in nonstructural members and the state of their progress 3) Use: checking how they are used every day (heavy objects placed in high places, for example) 24

27 I. Ceilings 1) Ceilings Visual protection Use Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? - If there are any shears, cracks, patches of damp, etc. in the ceiling, the ceiling material, etc. could fall. - If an especially high or large ceiling of gymnasium, school building, etc. should fall, it has a high risk of developing into a fatal accident. - Check also beams, the backside of the stairs, and eaves soffit. - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection (see pp ). Photo 1: Patch of damp and breakage of the ceiling material Photo 2: Crack in the backside of the stairs Photo 3: Crack in the beam finishing material Photo 4: Separation of mortar from the beam II. Lighting equipment 1) Lighting equipment Visual protection Use Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation or corrosion, in lighting equipment? - Deformation of the ceiling plane due to the shock of an earthquake could cause lighting equipment to fall. - Because lighting equipment in gymnasiums, etc. is large and hung in high places, if any of it falls, it could pose a great danger. - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection (see pp ). Topic for reference The Order for Enforcement of the Building Standards Act was revised in July 2013, establishing a new standard for suspended ceilings above a certain size that could cause serious damage if they should fall. In response, MEXT is requesting school establishers to promptly take measures to prevent suspended ceilings, lighting equipment, etc. from falling in gymnasiums, martial art gyms, auditoriums and indoor swimming pools. Reference: Classification of ceilings and lighting equipment typically found in schools (see pages 43 and 53 for details) Ceiling Hang ceiling: ceiling installed by hanging ceiling materials (boards) from the roof or upstairs floor Direct ceiling: ceiling installed by directly applying ceiling materials under the roof or upstairs floor, or applying mortar, etc. Lighting equipment Hanging type: hung from the roof or upstairs floor Direct mount: directly fixed under the roof or upstairs floor Embedded in the ceiling material: embedded in a hang ceiling 25

28 III. Windows/glass 1) Glass Visual protection Use Are there no abnormalities, such as cracks, in the windowpanes? - If there are cracks, etc., the glass could break due to the shock of an earthquake. - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection (see pp ). - If there are cracks, etc., replace the glass to ensure safety in ordinary times in addition to during an earthquake. Photo 1: Cracked window glass 2) Windows, doors Visual /manipulation protection Use Are there no abnormalities in opening/closing of the window or door, including obstruction and heaviness? - Check the smoothness of opening and closing the windows and doors. If there are abnormalities such as obstruction and significant heaviness, the door/window could fall due to forceful opening/closing. - Deformation, corrosion, rail wear or looseness when closed might cause the window to fall due to the shock of an earthquake. - Deformation of a window, etc. may add pressure to the glass, causing it to break. - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection. - Replace windows/doors deteriorated with age as needed. Glossary Shoji screen: Moving parts of fitting Photo 1: Deteriorated window 26

29 3) Sash fastener Visual protection Use Are the sash fasteners of windows not fastened? - Windows with unfastened sash fasteners might fall due to the shock of an earthquake. - If sash fasteners are not fastened, the resistance of the fittings will decrease considerably and the window might be opened by storm winds. Fasten the sash fastener when closing a window Glossary Sash fastener: Semicircular lock to fasten fittings such as sliding windows 4) Periphery of a windowpane Visual protection Use Are there no objects that are near a window and might hit the windowpane? - Objects placed near a windowpane might move or tumble due to the shock of an earthquake and hit the glass. - Refrain from placing any object near a windowpane in order to prevent any objects from moving/tumbling and hitting the glass, or fix the object as needed. 5) Doors, etc. Photo 1: A rack beside a window Visual /manipulation protection Use Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation, corrosion and looseness in classroom doors and other inner fittings? - Check interior fittings for looseness at attaching parts by lightly pushing them by hand. - If the depth supported by the frame is narrow or looseness is significant, the fitting is at risk of coming off and falling at the time of an earthquake. Glossary Interior fitting: Fittings such as doors and windows between a classroom and corridor - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection. - Using glass safety film is one of the measures to prevent glass shattering when a sliding door, etc. falls. 27

30 IV. Outer walls (armoring material) 1) Outer walls (armoring material) Visual protection Use Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in outer walls? V. Inner walls (interior material) 1) Inner walls (interior material) Visual protection Use Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in inner walls? - Check for cracks, deficiencies, missing parts, etc. in outer and inner walls. - Walls in high places, in particular, can be dangerous when they fall due to the shock of an earthquake. - Check eaves at the same time. - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection (for outer walls, see pp ; for inner walls, pp ). Photo 1: Hollow in an outer wall Photo 2: Crack and missing part in an outer wall (edge of eaves) Photo 3: Hollow and flaking of an outer wall Photo 4: Crack in an inner wall Photo 5: Shear of an inner wall Photo 6: Crack in an outer wall 28

31 VI. Equipment items 1) Broadcast equipment /athletic instruments Visual protection Use Is the main unit not leaning? Is the mounting bracket not corroded, broken, etc.? - Broadcast equipment, such as speakers, and athletic instruments, such as basket goals, might fall due to corrosion of mounting brackets, etc., during an earthquake. - A basket goal could fall to the floor if its support is detached due to the shock of an earthquake. - Broadcast and athletic equipment in a gymnasium mounted in a high place are especially dangerous if they should fall. - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection (see p.74). Photo 1: Broadcast equipment Photo 2: Broadcast equipment Photo 3: Mounting part of a basket goal 2) Air conditioner outdoor units Are no air conditioner outdoor units tilted? Visual protection Use - If an air conditioner outdoor unit is tilted, its mounting hardware might have deteriorated due to rust, etc. or the unit might not be fixed. If this is the case, the unit could fall due to the shock of an earthquake. - It is especially dangerous if the unit is mounted over a pathway. - If any abnormalities, such as tilting or unfixed air conditioner outdoor units are found, the school establisher, etc. shall implement a detailed inspection (see p.75). Photo 1: Air conditioner outdoor units mounted on a wall 29

32 VII. Televisions, etc. 1) Hanging televisions Is the television unit fixed to the hanging rack? Visual protection Use - If bolts, etc. to secure the television to its rack become loose, the television could come off and fall. - If bolts, etc. to secure the television to its rack are found to be loose, fix the television using a belt or fixing hardware. Photo 1: Hanging televisions Photo 2: Hanging televisions 2) Television, PC, etc. on a rack Visual protection Use Have any measures been taken to prevent the television, PC, etc. from tumbling or falling? - Because CRT televisions are heavier than flat-screen televisions and their center of gravity is toward the front, such a television might tumble forward. - Flat-screen televisions also might tumble if they are not fixed. - Secure the television to the rack using a belt, etc. to prevent it from tumbling or falling. - Flat-screen televisions and PCs may be fixed using a strap or sticky mat. Fixing using straps Fixed using sticky mats Photo 1: Examples of fixing a flat-screen TV Photo 2: Example of fixing with a belt Figure 1: Examples of fixing PCs 30

33 3) TV rack, etc. with casters Visual protection Use Have any measures been taken to prevent TV racks, electronic whiteboards, racks with casters, etc. from moving or tumbling? - TV racks, electronic whiteboards, copiers, etc. that have casters might move and tumble at the time of an earthquake. - You may fix the feet of the stand (to prevent moving) while fixing the upper part to the wall using a chain, etc. (to prevent tumbling). Topic for reference Long-period vibration requires special consideration because it might move furniture significantly. VIII. Storage racks, etc. 1) Racks, lockers, etc. Visual /sounding protection Use Are bookcases, racks for chemicals, lockers, etc. secured to a wall or the floor using mounting hardware? - If a rack is secured to a wall, check whether it is directly secured to an intermediate post, etc. in the wall substrate - Fixing to the surface board does not provide sufficient strength. An intermediate post can be found by knocking on the wall. A low-pitched sound indicates that the spot is quite likely to be hollow and lacking an intermediate post. - Considering the flexibility of furniture layout, etc., firmly fix large, heavy racks and thin, tall racks. - When placing a rack on top of another rack, fix the racks together using hardware after joining them. - If there is no wall for fixing, you may join two racks back to back and fix them; or fix the lower part of the racks to the floor. Glossary Intermediate post: vertical member placed between two pillars in order to install a wall Intermediate post Intermediate post L-shaped Downward fixed L-shaped hardware Figure 1: Example of fixing using L-shaped hardware1) Photo 1: Example of fixing by joining racks Photo 2: Example of fixing the lower part of racks 31

34 2) Items on a shelf Are there no heavy objects placed on a shelf? Visual protection Use - Heavy objects might fall due to the shock of an earthquake. - Don t put any heavy objects on an upper shelf in principle. - Bars may be attached to the front of shelves to prevent objects placed there from falling. 3) Items on a rack for chemicals Visual protection Use Have any measures been taken to prevent drug containers, etc. from breaking or falling out? - Because some chemicals require more careful management, check whether any measures have been taken to prevent stored objects from breaking or falling out - See VIII-1) Racks, lockers, etc. (p.31) for measures to prevent racks for chemicals from moving or tumbling. - A lock or opening-prevention appliance (a stop) may be applied to prevent doors/drawers from opening due to shaking. - You may attach a bar or put a mat with dents that are shaped like the bottom of the stored objects under the objects to prevent them from falling out Put down a soft mat to prevent objects from falling out. Place unstable tools in sand or put them in a grid container to prevent tumbling. Prevent racks from tumbling by using wire, etc.(fix the feet of racks using L-shaped hardware, wire, etc.) Apply glass safety film to glass doors. Attach bars to prevent objects from falling out. Photo 1: Stored in containers Replace glass containers with plastic ones as far as possible. It is recommended to attach a stop both at the top and bottom of the door. Figure 1: Example of measures to prevent a rack from tumbling Figure 3. Example of attaching bars Attach at the center of the doors when attaching at one location. Photo 2: Drawers jumped out due to tremors 32 Figure 2: Example of location of mounted stops Photo 3: Stored objects falling out and breaking glass

35 IX. Pianos, etc. 1) Pianos, etc. Visual protection Use Have any measures been taken to prevent pianos from skidding or tumbling? - Grand pianos may skid due to the shock of an earthquake. - Rolling-prevention appliances attached to the feet of a grand piano or upright piano are effective against weaker horizontal oscillation but are likely to come off during strong oscillation that involves bouncing. - Because the center of gravity in upright pianos and organs is biased backward, they might tumble backward. - Deeper anti-vibration rubber may be used to prevent the feet of grand and upright pianos from coming off. - When placing an upright piano against a wall, it is effective to place the piano about 10cm away from the wall in order to prevent the piano from tumbling forward as a reaction to hitting the wall. - You may fix an upright piano on a board to enlarge its base area as a measure to prevent tumbling. - It is important to stay away from a piano, etc. at the time of an earthquake. Caster Anti-vibrati on rubber Cross-section view Skidded together with rolling-prevention appliances Figure 1: Deeper anti-vibration rubber Photo 1: Skidding due to oscillation of an earthquake Photo 2: Comparison of feet Left: Commonly used rolling-prevention appliance Right: Deeper anti-vibration rubber Photo 3: Example of installation against a wall (about 10cm away from the wall) Figure 2: Example of measures to prevent an upright piano from tumbling (fixed on a board) 33

36 X. Expansion joints 1) Covering material of expansion joint Visual protection Use Are there no deformations in material covering expansion joints? Are no pieces of such material coming off? - Material that covers an expansion joint could come off even in a moderate quake. - If any abnormalities are found, the school establisher shall implement a detailed inspection (see p.77). Glossary Expansion joint: A gap between buildings to segment them and alleviate damage due to the shock of an earthquake, etc. Photo 1: Deformed expansion joint cover Photo 2: Expansion joint installed over a passage 2) Expansion joints and their periphery Visual protection Use Are there no objects placed on expansion joints or in their surroundings? - At the time of an earthquake, it is anticipated that joined structures would shake, making the expansion joints between them move. Objects placed on the covers might fall or tumble. - Don t place fire-extinguishers, bulletin boards, etc. on expansion joints. Expansion joint Photo 1: Shelf, etc. placed over a cover 34

37 Ch.5 Inspection Checklists and Commentaries For Establishers- 35

38 Inspection Checklists and Commentaries For Establishers Purpose of inspections implemented by the school establisher - The school establisher takes responsibility for the implementation of overall inspections as the supervisor of the facilities. - The school establisher implements specialized/technical inspections commissioning experts as needed. Implementation methods - It is important to promptly implement measures that can be taken at the school based on the inspection results. - First, copy the results of the inspection implemented by the school to the relevant part of Inspection Checklists (for school establishers) provided in the following pages. Next, implement an overall inspection using the checklist. - It is effective to present or use this guidebook when commissioning an expert to implement an inspection, because this way the expert can implement the inspection sharing a common understanding with the school establisher. - It is important to study the danger of and need for countermeasures based on the inspection result and formulate improvement plans leading to countermeasures. Types and frequency of inspection - Inspections are roughly divided into two types: those concerning earthquake protection and those concerning the degradation state. Specifically they are classified into the following three: 1) Simultaneous inspection of earthquake protection (once for the entire school in a well-planned manner) 2) Regular degradation inspection (about once every three years) 3) Contingent degradation inspection (as needed based on the school s report) How to use the checklists - Print out the checklists on the following pages. Create a checklist for each place such as classroom, corridor, stairs, entrance, toilet and gymnasium, and copy the results of the inspection carried out by the school to the list before implementing an inspection by the school establisher. - For specific inspection content, see (2) Inspection item (pp.42 77). - The checklists contain inspection items that are especially preferable to implement, but schools are expected to arrange the lists based on the situation of the school, opinion of experts, and other factors. - It is efficient to number places serially for sharing with the school. - It is efficient to attach photos, simple figures, etc. of the discovered abnormalities to the checklist. * You can download the part of Chapter 5. Inspection Checklists and Commentaries (for school establishers) separately from the website of MEXT (URL for convenient use. The lists are in Excel format to enable arrangement according to the situation of the school and type of the classroom. * Sources of photographs and figures are listed on P

39 Page for ref. Type of inspection resistance (1) Specified ceilings resistance resistance (2) Conventional method/ light-gauge steel ceiling base resistance (3) Conventional method/wood base I Ceilings resistance resistance (4) System ceiling (5) Direct boarding (6) Direct spraying (7) Direct painting (1) Inspection checklists Inspection Check List (for school establishers) Serial number name Inspected by Job title: Name: Filled-in by Inspected site (Circle applicable item) Story Gymnasium Classroom Special class room Corridor Foyer Outside Other Room name <Inspection result> A: no abnormalities found, or measures have been taken B: could not judge whether or not there are abnormalities C: an obvious abnormality was found Inspection item Visual Inspection method Sounding Manipulation Drawing (report) Inspection result Establisher Expert Special remarks (name of the building/room, state of the members, etc.) Ceilings 1) Conformity to technical standards Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? Have any fall prevention measures been taken in line with the technical standards? ) Hanging method close to the wall Is a hang bolt near the edge of the furring strip and furring strip support? 45 2) Ceiling material surrounding equipment Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting, air-conditioning or other equipment? 45 3) Ceiling shape Is it not a bent ceiling? 46 4) Ceiling material (shear, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak stains on the ceiling material? 46 1) Arrangement of wood base Are tsurigi (long, narrow strips of wood to provide support for a suspended board), etc. arranged at an appropriate interval to ensure sufficient bearing force? 47 2) Base material (decay, etc.) Are there no signs of decay or cracks in the wooden base material? 47 3) Ceiling material (shears, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak traces in the ceiling material, or significant deformation of the ceiling plane? 47 1) Hanging method close to the wall Is there a hang bolt installed near the edge of the T-bar? 48 2) Ceiling material surrounding equipment Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting, air-conditioning or other equipment? 48 3) Ceiling shape Is it not a bent ceiling? 49 4) Ceiling material (shear, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak stains on the ceiling material? 49 1) Shears, etc. of boards Are there any shears, cracks or waterleak stains in the boards including wood wool cement boards? 51 1) in sprayed material Are there flaking, deficiencies, cracks, hollows or other signs of degradation in the sprayed material? 51 1) Mortar (separation, etc.) Is there no flaking, deficiency, cracking or hollows in the mortar? 52 37

40 Page for ref. Type of inspection resistance resistance resistance resistance resistance (1) Hanging types (2) Direct-mounted (3) Embedded in ceiling II Lighting equipment III Windows/glass resistance Fixed window Openable window resistance Horizontal band window (1) Mortar (2) Lath IV Outer walls (armoring material) Lighting equipment Inspection item Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation or corrosion, in lighting equipment? 25 Visual Inspection method Inspection result Special remarks Sounding Manipulation Drawing (report) Establisher Expert (name of the building/room, state of the members, etc.) 1) Hanging material (Securing) Is the hanging material of the lighting equipment secured to support material? 54 2) Fall prevention measures (gymnasium, etc.) Are any measures taken for fall prevention? 54 3) Mounting hardware () Are no screws, etc. of the mounting hardware deformed, corroded or loose? 54 1) Mounting part (securing) Is lighting equipment secured to supporting material? 55 2) Fall prevention measures (gymnasium, etc.) Are any measures taken for fall prevention? 55 3) Mounting part () Are no mounting parts of lighting equipment deformed, corroded or loose? 55 1) Fall prevention measures Are any measures taken for fall prevention? 56 2) Mounting part () Are no mounting parts of lighting equipment deformed, corroded or loose? 56 3) Surrounding ceiling material Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting equipment? 56 Glass Are there no abnormalities, such as cracks, in the windowpanes? 26 Windows, doors Are there no abnormalities in opening/closing of the window or door, including obstruction and heaviness? 26 Sash fastener Are the sash fasteners of windows not fastened? 27 Periphery of a windowpane Are there no objects that are near a window and might hit the windowpane? 27 Doors, etc. Are there no abnormalities, such as deformation, corrosion and looseness in classroom doors and other inner fittings? 27 1) Fixed window/ Hardened putty Is hardened putty not used to fix glass in fixed windows? 57 2) Openable window (horizontal sliding window) Is there no difficulty in movement, deformation (deflections), corrosion or looseness in any windows? 58 3) Horizontal band window of gymnasium Is the rigidity of the structure ensured to support horizontal band windows? 59 Outer walls (armoring material) Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in outer walls? 28 1) Separation, etc. Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or hollows in the mortar? 61 1) Separation, etc. Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or bulging in the mortar? 62 38

41 Page for ref. Type of inspection resistance (3) Tiling resistance (4) ALC panels, etc. (5) Siding board, etc. resistance (6) Glass block IV Outer walls (armoring material) resistance resistance (7) Concrete block (1) Mortar (2) Lath (3) Finish board resistance V Inner walls (interior material) resistance (4) Concrete block resistance (5) Walls in the front part of a stage Inspection item Visual Inspection method Sounding Manipulation Drawing (report) Inspection result Establisher Expert Special remarks (name of the building/room, state of the members, etc.) 1) Masonry joint Are expansion adjustment joints installed at key points? 63 2) Separation, etc. Are any tiles falling, deficient, or cracked? Are there no hollows under tiles? 63 1) Mounting method Is a method with high tolerance to relative story displacement used? 64 2) Cracks, etc. Are there no shears, cracks, deficiencies, looseness or rust in ALC panels or extrusion molded panels? 65 1) Cracks, etc. Are no boards sheared, cracked, deficient, or loose? 65 2) Screws Are there no abnormalities such as looseness in screws? 65 1) Construction method Is an old construction method used? 66 2) Shear, protrusion Are there no shearing or out-of-plane protrusions of the glass block wall? 67 3) Deficiency, etc. Are no glass blocks deficient or cracked? Are no masonry joints damaged? 67 1) Specification Is the concrete block wall installed according to adequate specifications? 68 2) Securing (binding) to the structure Are concrete blocks secured (bound) to each other using reinforcing bars, and are their circumference adequately anchored to the structure, etc.? 68 3) Deficiency, etc. Are there no bulging, deficiencies or cracks in the concrete block wall or damage to its masonry joints? 69 Inner walls (interior material) Are there no abnormalities, such as hollows and cracks, in inner walls? 28 1) Separation, etc. Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or hollows in the mortar? 71 1) Separation, etc. Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or bulging in the mortar? 72 1) Bulging, etc. Are there no bulging, looseness, shears or water-leak traces in the boards? 72 1) Specification Is the concrete block wall installed (partition wall) according to adequate specifications? 73 2) Binding (securing) to the structure Are concrete blocks bound (secured) to each other using reinforcing bars, and their circumference adequately anchored to the structure, etc.? 73 3) Deficiency, etc. Are there no bulging, deficiencies or cracks in the concrete block wall or damage to its masonry joints? 73 1) Finished surface Are there no loose screws or nails, or bulging, shears or dirt on the boards? 73 2) Binding (securing) to the structure Is the base material bound to the structure (steel frame, etc.)? 73 39

42 Page for ref. Type of inspection resistance (1) Broadcast equipment/athletic instruments VI Equipment items resistance (2) Air conditioner outdoor units resistance Hanging TVs/ air conditioners VII Televisions, etc. VIII Storage racks, etc. IX Pianos, etc. resistance X Expansion joints resistance Expansion joints Is the main unit not leaning? Is the Broadcast equipment mounting bracket not corroded, broken, /athletic instruments etc.? 1) Mounting part (securing) Inspection item Are broadcast equipment and athletic instruments secured to supporting material? Visual Inspection method Sounding Manipulation Drawing (report) Inspection result Establisher Expert Special remarks (name of the building/room, state of the members, etc.) 2) Mounting hardware Is none of the mounting hardware loose, corroded or broken? 74 Air conditioner outdoor units Are no air conditioner outdoor units tilted? 29 1) Mounting part (securing) Are air conditioner outdoor units and the hot-water supply system secured to support material? 75 2) Mounting parts (deformation, etc.) Are there no deformed, corroded or broken mounting parts? 75 Hanging televisions Is the television unit fixed to the hanging rack? 30 Television, PC, etc. on a rack Have any measures been taken to prevent the television, PC, etc. from tumbling or falling? 30 TV rack, etc. with casters Have any measures been taken to prevent TV racks, electronic whiteboards, racks with casters, etc. from moving or tumbling? 31 1) Mounting parts (securing) Are hanging TV racks and hanging air conditioners secured to the structure? 76 Racks, lockers, etc. Are bookcases, racks for chemicals, lockers, etc. secured to a wall or the floor using mounting hardware? 31 Items on a shelf Are there no heavy objects placed on a shelf? 32 Items on a rack for chemicals Pianos, etc. Covering material of expansion joint Have any measures been taken to prevent drug containers, etc. from breaking or falling out? Have any measures been taken to prevent pianos from skidding or tumbling? Are there no deformations in material covering expansion joints? Are no pieces of such material coming off? Expansion joints and their periphery Are there no objects placed on expansion joints or in their surroundings? 34 1) Clearance of expansion joints Does the expansion joint have sufficient clearance? 77 2) Cover material of expansion joints Does the cover material have adequate performance in terms of deformation accommodation? 77 *Add any extra inspection items in the blank spaces 40

43 Page for ref. Type of inspection resistance (1) Specified ceilings resistance resistance (2) Conventional method/ light-gauge steel ceiling base resistance (3) Conventional method/wood base I Ceilings resistance resistance (4) System ceiling (5) Direct boarding (6) Direct spraying (7) Direct painting <Example of description> Give the name of the school and the writer. Enter the serial number. Inspection Check List (for school establishers) Serial number name Inspected by Municipal Elementary Job title: XX Department of YY City Board of Education/ ZZ Design Company Name: Yoko XX/John YY Filled-in by Inspected site (Circle applicable item) Story YY/MM/DD ( ) nth floor Gymnasium Classroom Special class room Corridor Foyer Outside Other Room name <Inspection result> Ceilings 1) Conformity to technical standards A: no abnormalities found, or measures have been taken B: could not judge whether or not there are abnormalities C: an obvious abnormality was found After receiving a report from the school, enter the results of the inspection by the school in the school (report) box. In the school establisher or expert box, enter the results of the inspection implemented by the school establisher, etc. as needed, based on the results of the inspection by the school. Inspection item Are there no abnormalities, such as shears, cracks and patches of damp, in the ceiling (ceiling finish board, mortar, etc.)? Have any fall prevention measures been taken in line with the technical standards? Visual Sounding Manipulation Drawing (report) Establisher Expert 25 C A A 44 Inspection method Inspection result Special remarks (name of the building/room, state of the members, etc.) A water leak was found in the ceiling in front of the classroom of Grade X, Class Y. A temporary measure has been taken and re-boarding of the ceiling is under consideration Put a circle in the boxes for the inspection methods adopted. 1) Hanging method Is a hang bolt near the edge of the furring close to the wall strip and furring strip support? 2) Ceiling material surrounding equipment Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting, air-conditioning or other equipment? 45 B A 45 B A 3) Ceiling shape Is it not a bent ceiling? 46 A A Same as above 4) Ceiling material (shear, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak stains on the ceiling material? 46 1) Arrangement of wood base 2) Base material (decay, etc.) Are tsurigi (long, narrow strips of wood to provide support for a suspended board), etc. arranged at an appropriate interval to ensure sufficient bearing force? Are there no signs of decay or cracks in the wooden base material? Enter the results of inspection in the school establisher box and, if an additional detailed inspection is conducted by an expert, enter the results in the expert box. 3) Ceiling material (shears, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak traces in the ceiling material, or significant deformation of the ceiling plane? 47 1) Hanging method close to the wall Is there a hang bolt installed near the edge of the T-bar? 48 2) Ceiling material surrounding equipment Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting, air-conditioning or other equipment? 48 3) Ceiling shape Is it not a bent ceiling? 49 4) Ceiling material (shear, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak stains on the ceiling material? 49 1) Shears, etc. of boards 1) in sprayed material Are there any shears, cracks or waterleak stains in the boards including wood wool cement boards? Are there flaking, deficiencies, cracks, hollows or other signs of degradation in the sprayed material? ) Mortar (separation, etc.) Is there no flaking, deficiency, cracking or hollows in the mortar? 52 41

44 (2) Inspection item Specific inspection contents and methods as well as a commentary on them are provided for each item in the checklist. Inspection item Indicates the sites, elements, etc. to be inspected and points of inspection Inspection methods and types* Inspection methods and types assumed for each inspection item are specified. Commentary 1 The commentary on the inspection item shows danger at the time of disaster, points of inspection, etc. Commentary 2 Shows examples of measures based on the inspection results, and points, etc. when implementing measures Figures, photographs, etc. Illustrate inspection items and a commentary for them using figures, photos, etc. * Inspection methods and types - Inspection method 1) Visual inspection: the inspector conducts a direct visual check. If there is an access port, use it, paying due attention to safety. 2) Sounding/manipulation: sounding with a test hammer to check for the existence of a hollow space, based on the pitch, etc. of the generated sound Manipulation: checking for abnormalities in members, etc. by touching them or moving them 3) Drawings: inspection using data such as blueprints, working drawing and photographs taken during construction - Types of inspection 1) protection: an expert checks seismic performance including measures to prevent ceilings from falling and the construction method of outer walls. 2) : an expert checks the risk of nonstructural members based on their degradation state, such as shears and cracks. 42

45 I. Ceilings Typical ceilings in schools include direct ceilings such as mortar finish ceilings for school buildings and wooden fiber cement board ceilings for gymnasiums. Suspended ceilings are often used for new buildings and rooms with soundproof/sound-effect considerations. Ceiling types typically used in schools Ceiling Suspended ceiling Direct ceiling Light-gauge steel ceiling base (p.45) Ordinary construction Wood backing (p.47) System ceiling (p.48) Furred ceiling (p.51) Direct spraying (p.51), direct painting (p.52) *See also P.44 for suspended ceilings in places higher than 6m or in a large space exceeding 200m 2. Order for Enforcement of the Building Standards Act was revised in July 2013 defining suspended ceilings above a certain size (with height exceeding 6m, horizontal projection area exceeding 200m 2, and mass per unit area exceeding 2 kg) as a specified ceiling that shall meet a new technical standard. MEXT applies the standard for the specified ceiling mutatis mutandis also to ceilings with height exceeding 6m or a horizontal projection area exceeding 200m 2, if they are in a gymnasium, martial arts gym, auditorium or indoor swimming pool. It is necessary to study measures for specified ceilings and similar ceilings together with an expert in structure. Suspended ceilings in school Gymnasiums, etc. (gymnasiums, martial art gyms, auditoriums and indoor swimming pools) *excluding instrument storage and changing rooms Buildings other than gymnasium With height exceeding 6m and horizontal projection area Specified ceiling Specified ceiling exceeding 200m 2 Mass per unit area exceeding 2 kg With height exceeding 6m but horizontal projection area not exceeding 200m 2 Ceiling similar to specified ceiling Other ceilings With height not exceeding 6m but horizontal projection area exceeding 200m 2 Ceiling similar to specified ceiling Other ceilings Other suspended ceilings (with height not exceeding 6m, horizontal projection area not exceeding 200m 2 or mass per unit area not exceeding 2 kg) Other ceilings Other ceilings 43

46 Ceilings/ (1) Suspended ceiling (specified ceilings and similar ceilings) 1) Conformity to technical standards Drawing /Visual resistance Have any fall prevention measures been taken in line with the technical standards? - If an especially high or large ceiling of a gymnasium, school building, etc. should fall, it has a high risk of being a fatal accident. - Even if the structural skeleton is earthquake resistant, ceilings could fall due to the shock of an earthquake. - Implement inspections using Guide for Measures to Prevent Ceilings, etc. from Falling in Facilities (August 2013, MEXT.) - Measures to prevent falling may include (1) removing the ceiling, (2) earthquake protection by reinforcing the ceiling, (3) removing and replacing the ceiling with a new ceiling, and (4) installing a safety net. - It is necessary to study measures together with an expert in structure. Table 1: Points of the technical standards for suspended ceiling Item Technical standard (specification route) Arrangement of diagonal members Material and number of sets are prescribed Arrangement of hang bolts Number per area is prescribed Joining hardware such as clips and hangers Secured by screwing, etc. Hanging length Roughly uniform at 3m or shorter Seismic design force (horizontal direction) Up to 2.2 G Clearance At least 6cm in principle Interior before taking the measure Photo 1: Example of measures to prevent a ceiling from falling Interior after taking the measure (ceiling materials are removed) Table 2: Check items for an existing suspended ceiling in the Guide for Measures to Prevent Ceilings, etc. from Falling in Facilities Chapter 2. Steps 1 to 4 Step 1 Confirmation of basic information - Checking basic items concerning earthquake resistance of a ceiling Checking clearance between the ceiling and the wall Presence/absence of diagonal members - Comparison between roof shape and ceiling shape Step 2 Collection of building data Step 3 Drawing diagnosis - Checking the material and mass of the ceiling ceiling surface without gypsum board (over 2 kg/m 2 up to 6kg/m 2 ) ceiling surface has one gypsum board (over 6kg up to 20kg/m 2 ) ceiling surface has two gypsum boards (over 20kg/m 2 ) - Check the cross-sectional shape of the ceiling - Check the specifications of the ceiling components Direction and hanging length of hang bolts Interval of hang bolts Arrangement of diagonal members (brace) Installation specification of diagonal members Securing of clearance Binding of ceiling members Step 4 On-site diagnosis Topic for reference In November 2014, a notification establishing items, methods, etc. of regular inspection based on the provision of Article 12 of the Building Standards Act, establishing items and methods of examination in a building regular investigation report and inspection in regular inspection, judgment criteria of their results and a list of results (2008 MLIT Notification No.282), made the investigation of the degradation and damage state of the material of specified ceilings mandatory (enforced on April 1, 2015.) Based on a revision of the notification, points of attention in investigation including investigation methods according to presence/absence of ceiling inspection opening and concrete examples of degradation and damage that correspond to judgment criteria are provided in Concerning regular investigation of specified ceilings (technical advice) (No of the Building Guidance Division, Housing Bureau) issued by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in January

47 Ceilings/ (2) Suspended ceiling (conventional method/ light-gauge steel ceiling base) 1) Hanging method close to the wall *For ceilings that do not fall under specified ceiling or similar ceiling Drawing /Visual resistance Is a hang bolt near the edge of the furring strip and furring strip support? - Because the basic safety performance of a suspended ceiling depends on how it is hung, check the presence/absence of a hang bolt by looking at the wall end. The bolt is expected to be within 15cm of the edge of the furring strip and furring strip support. - Employing a securing method for specified ceilings is effective also for earthquake protection of other ceilings. - If a clearance is created between the ceiling and the wall, it is necessary to install an adequate number of sets of diagonal members. Clearance without them could add to the damage of an earthquake. Within 15cm Hang bolt Furring strip support Furring strip Ceiling board Photo 1: Breakage at the wall end Photo 2: Fallen ceiling material Figure 1: Example of hanging method at wall end 2) Ceiling material surrounding equipment Visual resistance Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting, air-conditioning or other equipment? - Connections to an equipment item are especially subject to breakage due to the shock of an earthquake. - If there are shears, cracks or water leak traces in ceiling material, consult with an expert and make modifications, as needed. Photo 1: Broken connection to lighting equipment 45

48 3) Ceiling shape *For ceilings that do not fall under specified ceiling or similar ceiling Is it not a bent ceiling? Drawing /Visual resistance - A bent ceiling is sometimes used for music rooms, etc. to enhance acoustic effects. An external force might act locally on the bent part of a suspended ceiling with such a shape and damage the ceiling. - More bent ceilings have fallen compared with flat ceilings. - Implement measures consulting an expert while avoiding spoiling the sound reflection and absorption performance necessary for a music room, etc. Photo 1: Damage to the bent ceiling of a music room Photo 2: Damage to the bent ceiling of a music room 4) Ceiling material (shear, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak stains on the ceiling material? Visual resistance - If there are any shears or cracks (including human-induced breakage) in ceiling material, the material could fall off due to the shock of an earthquake. - Water leaks (rainwater) could cause base material or ceiling material to rust and become deformed, leading to the separation of ceiling material. - If there are shears, cracks or water leak traces in ceiling material, consult with an expert and make modifications, as needed. Photo 1: Water leak trace in a ceiling Photo 2: Shear in ceiling material 46

49 Ceilings/ (3) Suspended ceiling (conventional method/wood base) 1) Arrangement of wood base *For ceilings that do not fall under specified ceiling or similar ceiling Visual resistance Are tsurigi (long, narrow strips of wood to provide support for a suspended board), etc. arranged at an appropriate interval to ensure sufficient bearing force? - When heavier finish such as plaster finish is used and a wood base is not installed at the interval consistent with the weight, the ceiling is at risk of falling. - Consult an expert on countermeasures to take and modify the ceiling as needed. Tsurigi Tsurigi support Furring strip support Furring strip Photo 1: Damage to wood-base ceiling Figure 1: example of structure of wooden base 2) Base material (decay, etc.) Are there no signs of decay or cracks in the wooden base material? Visual resistance 3) Ceiling material (shears, etc.) Visual resistance Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak traces in the ceiling material, or significant deformation of the ceiling plane? - If you can push the ceiling board up with a slight push, the nails, etc. may be slack. - If there are any shears or cracks (including human-induced breakage) in the ceiling material, the material could fall off due to the shock of an earthquake. - If there are any water leak traces, the base material or ceiling material could be suffering from decay and deformation, or rusty nails, etc. could have reduced the locking force. - If there are any abnormalities in ceiling material, consult an expert and make modifications as needed. Photo 1: Water leak trace in ceiling material 47

50 Ceilings/ (4) Suspended ceiling (system ceiling) 1) Hanging method close to the wall *For ceilings that do not fall under a specified ceiling or similar ceiling Is there a hang bolt installed near the edge of the T-bar? Drawing /Visual resistance - Check the presence/absence of a hang bolt by looking at the wall end. The bolt is expected to be within 15cm of the edge of the T-bar. - For some system ceilings, the T-bar is supported by attaching angle iron, etc. to the wall. This kind of settlement can cause a ceiling close to a wall to fall. Within 15cm from the edge Hang bolt T-bar Ceiling panel Photo 1: Breakage at the wall end Photo 2: Breakage at the beam end Figure 1: Example of hanging close to the wall 2) Ceiling material surrounding equipment Visual resistance Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting, air-conditioning or other equipment? - Connections to an equipment item are especially subject to breakage due to the shock of an earthquake. - If there are shears, cracks or water leak traces in ceiling material, consult with an expert and make modifications, as needed. 48

51 3) Ceiling shape *For ceilings that do not fall under specified ceilings or similar ceilings Is it not a bent ceiling? Drawing /Visual resistance - A bent ceiling is sometimes used for music rooms, etc. to enhance acoustic effects. External force might act locally on the bent part of a suspended ceiling with such a shape and damage the ceiling. - More bent ceilings have fallen compared with flat ceilings. - Implement measures after consulting with an expert while avoiding spoiling the reflected sound and sound absorption performance necessary for a music room, etc. Photo 1: Damage to the bent ceiling of a music room Photo 2: Damage to the bent ceiling of a music room 4) Ceiling material (shear, etc.) Are there no shears, cracks or water-leak stains on the ceiling material? Visual resistance - If there are any shears or cracks (including human-induced breakage) in ceiling material, the material could fall of due to the shock of an earthquake. - Connections to a unit of equipment are especially subject to breakage due to the shock of an earthquake - Water leaks (rainwater) could cause base material or ceiling material to rust and become deformed, leading to the separation of ceiling material - If there are shears, cracks or water leak traces in ceiling material, consult with an expert and make modifications, as needed. - If the ceiling material is glass wool board, it can be secured to a T-bar using clips, wire, etc. to prevent falling. Photo 1: Shear in ceiling material Photo 2: Partial fall of ceiling material (viewed from beneath) 49

52 Topic for reference In the Great East Japan, there was damage not only to suspended ceilings of gymnasiums but also to those of classrooms and corridors in school buildings. Location of rooms in which the ceiling fell It is believed that generally the higher the floor the stronger the shock of an earthquake. A survey of school buildings damaged by the Great East Japan confirmed that damage was concentrated on the highest floor of buildings. Use and size of rooms in which the ceiling fell The ceiling fell more in larger classrooms such as music rooms and art rooms. With respect to ceiling height, not only vaulted ceilings higher than 3m but also many ceilings of ordinary height fell. Photo 1: Fallen ceiling of a large space on a higher floor Photo 2: Fallen ceiling of a classroom Photo 3: Fallen corridor ceiling Shape of fallen ceilings Music rooms, etc. sometimes have a bent or uneven ceiling for an acoustic effect but it has been pointed out that an external force might have acted locally on the bent or uneven parts, increasing the risk of damage. Ceilings of this type fell also during the Great East Japan. Photo 4: Fallen bent ceiling of a music room Photo 5: Fallen bent ceiling of a music room Photo 6: Damage to an uneven part of a ceiling There were also breakage and falling of ceiling/equipment caused by the equipment in the ceiling space hitting the ceiling. Photo 7: Fallen equipment in the ceiling space Photo 8: Fallen equipment in the ceiling space Photo 9: Fallen equipment in the ceiling space Topic for reference 50 Connection to the major parts for structural resistance is important even when mass per unit area of ceiling plane components does not exceed 2 kg, including the case of a film ceiling of a gymnasium. There may be the following points of inspection: - Securing to the steel frame with clamps, etc. Example: Confirm that there will be no sliding due to earthquake force applied to the part (that the friction force of the clamp will exceed the earthquake force on the part) - Securing of the steel frame to reinforced concrete Example: confirm that the concrete of the anchorage zone will not be destroyed Photo 1: Example of clamp sliding 2) Photo 2: Broken connection to the concrete wall

53 Ceilings/ (5) Direct ceilings (direct boarding) 1) Shears, etc. of boards Visual resistance Are there any shears, cracks or water-leak stains in the boards including wood wool cement boards? - Base material such as wood wool cement boards could suffer shears or deficiency due to significant deformation of the roof surface during an earthquake. Due to such shear, etc. a part of the base material could come off from the purlins, break and fall. - If there are any shears, cracks or water leak traces in base material, consult an expert and make modifications as needed. Glossary Wood wool cement board: A flat plate made by the compression molding of string-shaped wood chips and cement Roof purlin Roof finish Wood wool cement board (base material) Water leak trace Shear Crack Figure 1: Shear, crack and water leak stains on a roof base material Ceilings/ (6) Direct ceilings (direct spraying) 1) in sprayed material Visual resistance Are there flaking, deficiencies, cracks, hollows or other signs of degradation in the sprayed material? - Check the spraying base in the drawing, etc. - If there are any abnormalities, consult an expert and take measures such as reinforcement with anchor pins and removal as needed, because the sprayed material may exfoliate due to aged deterioration. 51

54 Ceilings/ (7) Direct ceilings(direct painting) 1) Mortar (separation, etc.) Is there no flaking, deficiency, cracking or hollows in the mortar? Visual /Sounding resistance - Give priority to checking parts that are in a place with traffic such as behind stairs, over a passage and in a classroom (ceiling, beam) and those exposed to the elements such as the underside of eaves. - Heavy mortar is dangerous because it would cause heavy damage if it should fall. - Cracks indicate a possible hollow in the surrounding parts. If the hollow is continuous, the material could fall off during an earthquake. - Check for the presence/absence of hollows under mortar finish ceilings by sounding, etc. If there is a hollow under mortar, sounding will produce dull sound (resonant sound if there are no hollows.) - If any abnormalities are found, there is a risk of separation due to aging degradation. In such a case consult an expert and make modifications, such as reinforcement with anchor pins, etc. and removal of mortar, as needed. Glossary Hollow under mortar: Mortar is partly detached from the substrate but the strength of the mortar itself prevents falling. Roof concrete Photo 1: Separation of mortar under a beam of a classroom Photo 2: Separation of mortar from the underside of the eave Hollow Crack Mortar finish Topic for reference Trellis (grid ceiling) over the gymnasium stage to hang equipment could fall due to the shock of an earthquake. If trouble such as shakiness and creaking is found when walking on the trellis, consult an expert because there might be a problem with its mounting or structure. Trellis Trellis Structure Backside Photo 1: Stage in a gymnasium Photo 2: Trellis (viewed from beneath) Secure the trellis to the structure to fix it more strongly. Photo 3: Example of securing the trellis ceiling and structure (viewed from beneath) 52

55 II. Lighting equipment Lighting equipment commonly used in schools is roughly divided as follows: Types of lighting equipment commonly used in schools Hanging types (p.54) Lighting equipment Direct-mounted (p.55) Embedded in ceiling (p.56) *With respect to lighting equipment in gymnasium, Guide for Measures to Prevent Falling of Ceilings, etc. of Facilities also serves as a useful reference. Schema of installation methods Hanging types Lighting equipment hung from supporting material Steady brace (1) Classrooms, corridors (2) Gymnasium (3) Installation under a suspended ceiling (not to be used in principle) * * When it is necessary to support lighting equipment from ceiling base material, secure it to the base material with sufficient strength using mounting hardware and take measures to prevent falling by using wire, chains, etc. Direct-mounted Lighting equipment directly secured to supporting material rather than being hung. (1) Classrooms, corridors (2) Gymnasiums Embedded in ceiling Lighting equipment embedded in ceiling material (1) Supported by furring-strip support (fluorescent lamp) (2) Supported by ceiling board (down light) 53

56 Lighting equipment/ (1) Hanging types 1) Hanging material (Securing) Visual resistance Is the hanging material of the lighting equipment secured to support material? 2) Fall prevention measures (gymnasium, etc.) Are any measures taken for fall prevention? Visual resistance - When lighting equipment swings due to an earthquake, stress could concentrate on its hanging material and the mounted part, leading to breakage and falling. It could also hit the surrounding ceiling material or other lighting equipment, leading to breakage and falling. - Because lighting equipment in gymnasiums is large and hung in high places, if any of it should fall, it could pose a great danger. - Hang large lighting equipment such as that for an arena of a gymnasium directly from the structure. In this process, secure the equipment to the roof truss or RC frame using diagonal steady braces, etc. as needed. - When it is necessary to support lighting equipment on the ceiling s base material, secure it to the base material with sufficient strength using mounting hardware and take measures to prevent separation using wire, chains, etc. Mount hanging pipes firmly to prevent falling Steady brace Photo 1: Hanging-type lighting equipment (classroom) Photo 2: Hanging-type lighting equipment fell down (gymnasium) 3) Mounting hardware () Visual /manipulation resistance Are no screws, etc. of the mounting hardware deformed, corroded or loose? - Corrosion or looseness of screws, etc. in a mounting could lead to electrical leakage or the lighting equipment falling during an earthquake. 54

57 Lighting equipment/ (2) Direct-mounted 1) Mounting part (securing) Is lighting equipment secured to supporting material? 2) Fall prevention measures (gymnasium, etc.) Are any measures taken for fall prevention? - Hang large lighting equipment such as those for an arena of a gymnasium directly from the structure. In this process, secure the equipment to the roof truss or RC frame using diagonal steady braces, etc. as needed. - When it is necessary to support lighting equipment from ceiling base material, secure it to the base material with sufficient strength using mounting hardware and take measures to prevent separation using wire, chains, etc. - Because lighting equipment in gymnasiums is large and hung in high places, if any of it should fall, it could pose a great danger. Visual resistance Visual resistance 3) Mounting part () Photo 1: Lighting equipment in a gymnasium Visual /manipulation resistance Are no mounting parts of lighting equipment deformed, corroded or loose? - Cracks, etc. in the mounting parts of lighting equipment could lead to electrical leakage or lighting equipment falling during an earthquake. Photo 1: Corroded lighting equipment3) 55

58 Lighting equipment/ (3) Embedded in ceiling 1) Fall prevention measures Are any measures taken for fall prevention? Visual resistance - Because lighting equipment in gymnasiums is large and hung in high places, if any of it should fall, it could pose a great danger. - When it is necessary to support lighting equipment from ceiling base material, secure it to the base material with sufficient strength using mounting hardware and take measures to prevent separation using wire, chains, etc. - Hang large lighting equipment directly from the structure. In this process, secure the equipment to the roof truss or RC frame using diagonal steady braces, etc. as needed. 2) Mounting part () Visual /manipulation resistance Are no mounting parts of lighting equipment deformed, corroded or loose? - Cracks, etc. in the mounting parts of lighting equipment could lead to electrical leakage or lighting equipment falling during an earthquake. 3) Surrounding ceiling material Visual resistance Are there no deformations or shears in the ceiling material surrounding lighting equipment? - Check whether hardware to prevent the cover separating from the main unit of the lighting equipment has been installed. Topic for reference Install raceway mounted lighting equipment by securing the terminal of the raceway on a column or side wall. Hanging bolt Is a steady brace used? Raceway Example of a steady brace Fluorescent light. Stainless-steel wire, etc. Secure the terminal on a sidewall, etc. Photo 1: Raceway mounted lighting equipment. Figure 1: Example of raceway mounting 56

59 III. Windows/glass Windows commonly used in schools include the following: Types of windows commonly used in schools Fixed window (p.57) Window Openable window (horizontal sliding window) (p.58) etc. * See also p.59 for horizontal band windows in gymnasium 1) Fixed window/ Hardened putty Is hardened putty not used to fix glass in fixed windows? Visual /manipulation resistance - If hardened putty is used to fix glass in a fixed window, the window may not conform with the Building Standards Act (see Topic for reference) - Because such glass is constrained and at high risk of breakage due to the shock of an earthquake, it is especially dangerous if used for a large window in a gymnasium, etc. - Openable windows also have similar risk, which require attention. - Modify fixed windows with hardened putty by using elastic sealing material as needed, or replace the window. - If the bead (cushioning material to fix glass) of a window with wired glass has hardened, water might infiltrate and rust the wire, causing the glass to break. Replace the bead to prevent this. Glossary Fixed window: A window that is made by fixing glass in a frame and that cannot be opened. Beware of inelastic hardened putty. Putty Photo 1: Window fixed with hardened patty Photo 2: Window fixed with hardened patty Topic for reference The use of hardened sealing is prohibited when installing a fixed window (excluding wire glass) in an outdoor-facing curtain wall of a building three or more stories tall, excluding the basement (excluding cases where measures are taken to prevent harm caused by falling glass). (Notification of the Ministry of Construction No. 109 on January 29, 1971). Because this provision has been applied since April 1, 1979, through a revision of the announcement, buildings constructed before the date require special attention. 57

60 Topic for reference If any deformation in the structure caused by the shock of an earthquake directly acted through a fitting on the glass of a fixed window, the glass might break. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure sufficient edge clearance and margin around the glass embedded in the frame, while taking sufficient groove depth in the frame to avoid constraint that could break the glass during an earthquake. The relationship between the rotation of glass in a sash and the clearance can be obtained using the following mathematical formula of J.G. Bouwkamp: δ = C1 + C2 + (h/b) (C3 + C4) δ: sash deformation volume b: internal width of sash groove h: internal height of sash groove, C1, C2: left/right edge clearance C3, C4: upper/lower side edge clearance Rotation angle Glass pane Sealant Glass Horizontal displacement Rotation Backup material Margin of the glass in the frame Edge clearance Figure 1: Concept of deformation in the Bouwkamp mathematical formula 4) Setting block For earthquake protection (tolerance to relative story displacement) of fitting, it is important to secure a gap (edge clearance) between the glass and sash. Figure 2: Elastic sealant method 2) Openable window (horizontal sliding window) Manipulation resistance Is there no difficulty in movement, deformation (deflections), corrosion or looseness in any windows? - If a latch for glass or a door wheel is deformed or broken, or the door is opened or closed roughly, the horizontal sliding window could fall together with the glass. - Because latches are often mounted in less visible places to prevent operation by mistake, and door wheels are underneath the glass, it is difficult to notice any problems with them. Because rough operation such as lifting the glass could cause it to fall, if there are any problems with opening or closing, don t move it roughly but consult an expert. - Openable windows other than a horizontal sliding window (outward projecting window, etc.) also entail a similar risk, which requires attention. - Locking a window with a semicircular fastener when it is closed will reduce the risk of its falling during an earthquake. - If there are any abnormalities when opening or closing a window, don t move it roughly but consult an expert and make modifications as needed. Topic for reference In response to accidents involving window glass falling that occurred in multiple schools from December 2009 to June 2010, MEXT instructed schools to ensure appropriate operation and maintenance by checking whether glass latches mounted on the window frame, etc. are securely fitted and function normally, for example. ( About operation and maintenance of existing school facilities, administrative circular, August 16, 2010) 58

61 3) Horizontal band window of gymnasium Drawing /Visual resistance Is the rigidity of the structure ensured to support horizontal band windows? - If horizontal band windows jut out from the structure plane and the rigidity of the structure is low, there is a very high risk of large-scale breakage and falling. - Horizontal band windows in gymnasiums are especially dangerous because they might fall together with glass, causing heavy damage. - It is effective to replace the sash with one that is very capable of accommodating itself to deformation, or reduce deformation by securing the rigidity of the building. - It is also effective to change to laminated glass that hardly scatters when it breaks, or applying glass safety film on the glass. - If it is difficult to take any measure, plants may be used to prevent people from passing places where window/glass could fall onto them - It is necessary to study countermeasures together with an expert in structure. Glossary Horizontal band windows: horizontally continuous windows Cantilever with low rigidity Window surface Eave beam No auxiliary steel at the connection of cantilever and column Steel frame girder Steel column Reduce deformation at the time of an earthquake by enlarging the sectional area of the cantilever to increase rigidity Window surface Eave beam Increase the rigidity of the connection in both the directions of in and outside the lateral plane Steel column Steel frame girder RC construction RC construction Measures for span direction Beam Beam Beam Beam Column Column Column Column Column Column Column Brace Brace Brace Brace Pedestal Pedestal Pedestal Pedestal Pedestal Pedestal Photo 1: Example of eave beam with low rigidity Newly install diagonals. With respect to columns, beams and pedestals, examine whether stress from braces can be transferred and reinforce them as needed. Figure 1: Example of structural measure for a gymnasium with horizontal band windows of cantilever support structure Topic for reference To reduce damage due to breakage or scattering of glass installed in a high place, plants may be used to prevent people from passing places where glass could fall onto them. A similar effect is expected for protection against falling armoring material as well as glass. Eaves and balconies are also expected to have an effect to reduce damage due to scattering glass. Photo 1: Example of a device to prevent glass, etc. from falling over head (by planting) 59

62 Topic for reference Features of glass commonly used in schools Type Features Transparent sheet glass that is most commonly used. If it is broken by an impact object, sharp glass Float sheet glass shards scatter causing a great danger. Mainly used for fire prevention equipment that prevents fire from spreading. If it is broken by an impact object, its steel wire reduces scattering of glass shards but the object will penetrate the Wired sheet glass glass. If the steel net rusts, it expands and causes cracks in the glass, which might develop into heat cracking depending on the use. Often used for windows in entrances, gymnasiums, and school buildings facing the schoolyard. The glass is produced by heating and rapidly cooling float sheet glass to make it harder to break. Tempered glass When it is broken, the entire glass will collapse into small grains. This is why the glass is called safety glass. Produced by laminating two glass sheets together using a tough interlayer. The glass ensures high Laminated glass safety because it is highly penetration resistant and, if it is broken by a strong impact, the layer prevents broken pieces from falling or scattering. Commonly a fixed interval is maintained between two glass sheets by using a specially designed spacer, their edges are sealed with sealing material and the internal air is kept in dry condition. The Multi-layered glass glass can have better heat insulating property compared with ordinary sheet glass. For this reason, it is often used for energy saving. Characteristic in how they break Photo 1: Float sheet glass: sharp shards scatter. An impacting object will penetrate the glass. 5) Photo 2: Tempered glass: glass collapses into small grains and the impacting object penetrates the glass. 6) Photo 3: Laminated glass: little scattering of glass pieces and the glass is hardly penetrated by an impacting object. 7) Glass safety film It is effective to apply glass safety film to float sheet glass under the advice of an expert* to prevent glass shards from scattering. (It is necessary to study beforehand about replacing the glass in the case of film deterioration, heat cracking or breakage of the glass) If glass safety film is applied to tempered glass as post-construction, there is the risk of an entire block of glass falling together with the safety film, which requires attention. Float sheet glass Float sheet glass with film applied Photo 4: Performance to prevent glass scattering in shot bag test. 8) Float sheet glass Float sheet glass with film applied Photo 5: Performance to prevent glass scattering in relative story displacement test. 9) Topic for reference In response to serious damage due to tornados in Kanto and other regions in 2012 and 2013, MEXT asked for promotion of measures against wind gusts, including measures to prevent glass from scattering ( Promotion of measures against a wind gusts, such as tornadoes, administrative circular, January 14, 2014) 60

63 IV. Outer walls (armoring material) Outer walls commonly used in schools include the following: Type of outer walls (armoring material) commonly used in schools Outer walls (armoring material) Wet type Dry type Other Mortar (p.61), lath sheet mortar (p.62), tiling (p.63), etc. ALC panel /extruded cement panel (p.64), siding board (p.65), etc. Glass block (p.66), concrete block (p.68) *See Topic for reference in p.70 for paint finishing and blast finishing of reinforced concrete construction. Dry type armoring materials include ALC panels/extruded cement panels installed using specially designed mounting hardware and siding boards installed using screws, etc. Generally, wet-type armoring materials have lower capability to follow the behavior of the substrate compared with dry type. Wet-type outer walls, ALC panels, and concrete blocks might fall as a large block at the time of an earthquake. In rare cases dry-type armoring materials such as siding boards are installed on dry-type armoring material, which require attention. Outer walls (armoring material)/ (1) Mortar 1) Separation, etc. Visual /Sounding resistance Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or hollows in the mortar? - Give priority to checking outdoor parts exposed to rain and parts over pathways. - Mortar-finish walls in high places, in particular, are dangerous if the mortar should fall due to the shock of an earthquake. - Cracks indicate a possible hollow in the surrounding parts. If the hollow is continuous, the material could fall off during an earthquake. - If any abnormality is found by visual inspection, check for hollows by sounding, etc. If there is a hollow under mortar, sounding will produce dull sound (resonant sound if there are no hollows.) - If a hollow is found under the mortar, consult an expert and reinforce with an anchor pin, etc. or repair the armoring material as needed. Outer wall concrete Anchor pin Hollow Mortar finish Interior finish material Figure 1: Hollow under mortar and example of measure Epoxy injection Photo 1: Mortar fell off the wall 61

64 Topic for reference Regular report of special building based on Article 12 of the Building Standards Act Based on the revision of the act on April 1, 2008, a sounding investigation of all surfaces of tiled, stoned (excluding those of dry construction), mortar and other outer walls shall be implemented once every 10 years. In actual investigation, mainly a sounding rod or infrared camera is used. If any abnormalities are found, it is desirable to promptly implement such an investigation. Photo 1: Sounding investigation Photo 2: Infrared investigation ( to detect abnormal points by measuring temperature distribution in outer walls using an infrared camera) Outer walls (armoring material)/ (2) Lath sheet mortar, etc. 1) Separation, etc. Drawing /Visual /Sounding resistance Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or bulging in the mortar? - When lath sheet mortar, mortar on a metal lath and other outer walls with low tolerance to relative story displacement deteriorate, they are at high risk of falling off due to the shock of an earthquake. - Because lath sheet mortar and mortar on a metal lath are usually used for gymnasium walls or the underside of eaves, etc., the lath tends to rust, leading to falling mortar. - If part of the lath has rusted and come off, sounding produces a low-pitch sound that indicates a hollow. - Falling lath sheet mortar, etc. is especially dangerous because it could fall as a large plate, causing heavy damage. - If any abnormality is found by visual inspection, it is desirable to carry out a destructive investigation of a part of the surrounding to check for decay of the base material. - Because there is a risk of damage to a large surface through falling large mass in a plate form, give priority to the modification of deteriorated outer walls including removal. Glossary Lath sheet mortar: Mortar finish over a lath substrate such as a metal lath (metal used for affixing mortal) welded over corrugated galvanized sheet iron of a square sheet Photo 1: Damage to lath mortar caused by an earthquake Mortar on a metal lath: Mortar grounding or finish over a substrate such as a metal lath or wire lath Figure 2: Example of mortar on a metal lath construction Figure 1: Example of mortar on a metal lath construction 62

65 Outer walls (armoring material)/ (3) Tiling 1) Masonry joint Are expansion adjustment joints installed at key points? Drawing /Visual resistance - Tiles without expansion adjustment joints are more likely to produce cracks, which could lead to the intrusion of rainwater and hollows under tiles, and cause separation. - If expansion adjustment joints are not found at key points, consult an expert and install them at every 3 to 4 m, focusing on concrete placing joints and crack inducing joints, for example. Glossary Expansion adjustment joint: A masonry joint made to distribute and absorb the stretching behavior of concrete Topic for reference Efflorescence is caused by elements of concrete or mortar dissolving in water. The development of efflorescence is a sign of the intrusion of water, which could lead to corrosion of reinforcing steel of the structure and the separation of tiles. Photo 1: Efflorescence 2) Separation, etc. Visual /sounding resistance Are any tiles falling, deficient, or cracked? Are there no hollows under tiles? - Check for cracks in joints and tiles. - Cracks indicate possible hollows in the periphery. If a hollow is continuous, the material could fall off during an earthquake. - If many cracks or other abnormalities are found by visual inspection, check for hollows, etc. by sounding, etc. - If there is a hollow under a tile, sounding will produce a dull sound (resonant sound if the there are no hollows.) - of outer wall investigation is based on that of Outer walls (armoring material). - Check with a special emphasis on the periphery of opening and concrete placing joints. - If a hollow is found under a tile, consult an expert and reinforce it with an anchor pin, etc. or repair the armoring material as needed. Glossary Hollow under a tile: The tile is partly separated from the substrate but remains on the surface without falling. Water seeps through cracks, etc. in a joint or tile and gets between the building frame and the tile, producing a hollow. Tile Hollow Substrate mortar Outer wall concrete Epoxy injection Anchor pin 63

66 Outer walls (armoring material)/ (4) ALC panels, etc. 1) Mounting method Drawing /Visual resistance Is a method with high tolerance to relative story displacement used? - If ALC panels are installed using the vertical wall reinforcement method (often used in buildings constructed before 2000), there is a risk of cracked joints, breakages or protrusions in the panels during an earthquake, leading to separation of the panels. - It would be dangerous if a heavy panel should fall from a high place. - If panels are installed using the vertical wall reinforcement method, consult an expert and study the need for taking measures. - If the deformation volume of the building is considerable, make modifications using a mounting method with high tolerance to relative story displacement as needed. - It is important to design connections and joints to enable them to cope with relative story displacement. Glossary ALC panel: Light concrete that is steam-cured under high temperature and pressure in a factory. 60cm-wide panels are commonly used. Glossary Relative story displacement: Horizontal deformation at the time of an earthquake (difference of displacement between stories) Photo 1: Example of using ALC panels Topic for reference Mounting methods of ALC panels for outer walls used in schools include the following. Among them the vertical wall reinforcement method has lower tolerance to relative story displacement compared with other methods, and requires special attention if the deformation volume of the building at the time of an earthquake is considerable. Direction of panels Vertical Horizontal Mounting method/features Vertical wall reinforcement method Reinforcing rods are inserted into vertical joint voids between ALC panels using Often used in mounting hardware, the voids are filled with mortar and then the panels are attached buildings to the structure. Removed from Standard ALC Mounting s (ALC constructed Association) in 2001, the method is not used now. Its tolerance to relative story before 2000 displacement of the skeleton structure at the time of an earthquake is lower than that of the locking method. Locking method, etc. Often used in to mount ALC panels to the structure by using anchors installed in the panels buildings and mounting hardware without using mortar, etc. constructed in Each ALC panel follows relative story displacement of the skeleton structure by 2001 and after making small rotations at the time of an earthquake. Bolted method Both ends of an ALC panel are secured to the structure by using hook bolts, etc. The method is added as a part of side-wall anchor method to Standard ALC Mounting s (ALC Association) of ALC panels of upper and lower rows slide against each other and thus follow relative story displacement of the skeleton structure at the time of an earthquake. Anchor method to bind ALC panels to the structure by using anchors installed in the panels and mounting hardware as in the case of the locking method 64

67 2) Cracks, etc. Visual /manipulation resistance Are there no shears, cracks, deficiencies, looseness or rust in ALC panels or extrusion molded panels? - If any shears, cracks, etc. are found in the outer wall panel, water may intrude through the gap, causing a problem in terms of tolerance to relative story displacement of the panel during an earthquake, etc. - If any cracks, etc. are found in the outer wall panel, there may be a problem in terms of its tolerance to relative story displacement. Consult an expert and make modifications as needed. Photo1. Cracked ALC panel Photo 2: Damage to ALC panels caused by an earthquake Photo 3: Damage to extrusion molded panels caused by an earthquake Glossary Extruded cement panel: Panel produced by extruding cement-based material into a panel with hollows, which is followed by high-temperature and high pressure steam curing Outer walls (armoring material)/ (5) Siding board, etc. 1) Cracks, etc. Are no boards sheared, cracked, deficient, or loose? 2) Screws Are there no abnormalities such as looseness in screws? Visual /manipulation resistance Visual resistance - For siding boards, flexible boards and other boards mounted using screws, check whether any of the screws are on an extreme edge (insufficient margin), missing or loose. - It is dangerous if a board should fall from a high place. - If modification is difficult, it is effective to keep people away from the surrounding. Glossary Siding board 10): Dry-type outer wall plate made of cement or metal. The method is believed to have high tolerance to relative story displacement in general. Glossary Flexible board 11): A kind of fiber-reinforced cement board produced by forming cement and reinforcing fibers through high pressure pressing. With excellent fireproof and damp-proof properties, the board is used for eaves soffit, for example. 65

68 Outer walls (armoring material)/ (6) Glass block 1) Construction method Is an old construction method used? Drawing /Visual resistance - In an old construction method that was used up to the first half of 1980s, surroundings of openings were bound with mortar, which reduced the tolerance to relative story displacement at the time of an earthquake. - If reinforcing bars are used for ribs (steel material for reinforcement) (the method was often used up to 1994), blocks might crack due to rusted bars. - If an old construction method is used, consult an expert and study the need for measures based on the deformation volume of the building at the time of an earthquake and the specification of the glass blocks. Current construction methods - Buffer material is installed on the four sides of the glass block surface (buffer material on the upper, right and left frames and a drain plate under the sill) to prevent the vibration of the building caused by an earthquake, etc. from directly transferring to the glass block surface. - Ribs (steel material for reinforcement) are inserted into specially designed hardware and not restrained to the structure. - Ribs are made of stainless steel Old construction methods up to the first half of the 1980s - Four sides of glass block surface were bound with mortar and completely fixed to the structure - Ribs were welded to reinforcing bars on the structure side. - Ribs were made of steel. Buffer material is installed on the four sides of the glass block surface. The vibration of the building caused by an earthquake, etc. is not directly transferred to the glass block surface. Photo 1: Glass block wall using a current construction method (with buffer material on the four sides) Ribs (steel material for reinforcement) made of stainless steel are inserted into specially designed hardware visible at the upper end. They are not restrained to the structure. Photo 2: Glass block wall using an old construction method (cracks in mortar) Photo 3: Installation using a current construction method 12) 66

69 2) Shear, protrusion Visual /manipulation resistance Are there no shearing or out-of-plane protrusions of the glass block wall? - If any shearing or protrusions are found in a large glass block wall, there is the risk of a large part of the glass block collapsing. - If any searing or protrusions are found, make modifications as needed, including replacement of glass blocks with other armoring materials. Glossary Protrusion: A part coming forward as if it were pushed out The joint with the structure is damaged. Photo 1: Protrusion of the central part of the side of block wall due to an earthquake 3) Deficiency, etc. Visual resistance Are no glass blocks deficient or cracked? Are no masonry joints damaged? - Check for large cracks though multiple blocks and small cracks in corner blocks. - Because masonry joints are subject to the load of earthquakes, there is a possibility that they have been damaged by previous earthquakes. - If any deficiencies, etc. are found, consult an expert and make modifications as needed. Photo 1: Missing glass block Photo 2: Damage to masonry joints of glass blocks 67

70 Outer walls (armoring material)/ (7) Concrete block 1) Specification 68 Drawing resistance Is the concrete block wall installed according to adequate specifications? - Concrete block walls facing a pathway or a living space such as classroom are dangerous because heavy damage is estimated to occur if they should collapse. - Concrete blocks are often used for outer walls of changing rooms next to a swimming pool, clubrooms, etc. as well as for inner partition walls in classrooms and toilets. - You can find concrete block walls often by looking at drawings. If there is no relevant information in the drawing, you can determine whether concrete blocks are used by sounding or using a reinforcing bar probe. - Check whether earthquake protection is considered, including the thickness of the block wall and the amount of reinforcing bars. 2) Securing (binding) to the structure Visual resistance Are concrete blocks secured (bound) to each other using reinforcing bars, and are their circumference adequately anchored to the structure, etc.? - It is necessary to anchor concrete block walls to the surrounding frame. - Check whether the concrete blocks are bound to each other using reinforcing bars, and their circumference is adequately anchored to the structure, etc. - Some concrete block walls have been there since the construction of the building, while others were installed when the building was modified. Especially for the latter, check whether their installation is adequate, including rigid connection of the concrete block wall to the main structure using a post-construction anchor, etc. - Because arrangement of bars in concrete block walls and the anchoring of a rod top may have been investigated at the time of the seismic diagnosis of the building (structure), check this first. - If seismic diagnosis has not been implemented or cannot be verified, options may include checking at the time of modification, reinforcing bar probing and investigation by shaving off a portion of the top part. - If binding is insufficient, it is effective to replace the wall with a dry-type wall, for example. Anchor bar Plastering finish Filled concrete Vertical reinforcement Horizontal reinforcement Block for horizontal reinforcement RC beam Concrete block Plastering finish Concrete block wall Masonry joint *Finished by plastering in many cases (a) Example of binding concrete block wall installed at the time of the construction of the building Postconstruction anchor RC beam Figure 1: Example of binding concrete block wall Checked by shaving off the top part (Condition of binding of vertical reinforcement to the main structure) (b) Example of binding concrete block wall installed at the time of modification of the building

71 3) Deficiency, etc. Visual resistance Are there no bulging, deficiencies or cracks in the concrete block wall or damage to its masonry joints? - Check for large cracks through multiple blocks and small cracks in corner blocks. - Carry out a detailed check if the concrete blocks are tilted or the entire wall is leaning (retaining wall, etc.) - Because masonry joints are subject to the load of earthquakes, there is a possibility that they have been damaged by previous small and medium-scale earthquakes. - If any deficiencies, etc. are found in the concrete blocks, consult an expert and make modifications as needed, including modifications of armoring materials other than concrete blocks. Photo 1: Outer wall using concrete blocks Bulging is visible. Beam Column Photo 2: Cracked masonry joints of concrete blocks Apparent tilting Block wall Figure 1: Bulging of concrete blocks Photo 3: Deficiency and cracks in concrete blocks Glossary Bulging: out-of-plane bulging 69

72 Topic for reference Outer wall coating - If an elastic coating (resilient tiles, elastic lysine, etc.) are used for outer walls, abnormalities are often not found by visual observation of the surface because such coating is very capable of accommodating itself to cracks in the base material. - They are superior in durability because the coating film prevents rainwater and external air from infiltrating through cracks in the base material. If there are large hollows in the mortar bed, however, mortar might break and fall on a large scale. If elastic coating is used, even if no abnormality is found by visual investigation, it is important to investigate the degree of degradation of the base material by sounding, etc. Photo 1: Hollows in coating Photo 2: Hollows in coating Undressed concrete - If internal steel bars rust and expand due to insufficient covering depth or aging degradation of the concrete (neutralization), they might push up the concrete cover, leading to separation. - If hollows in a concrete cover as shown in the photo are found, it can fall any time. Shave off the concrete cover with hollows and, after making rust prevention treatment of the internal bars, take measures such as repair with resin mortar. Photo 3: Hollows in concrete cover 13) Photo 4: Example of repair (coated after shaving off) 70 Topic for reference Tilted spandrel walls on the edges of balconies - In the Great East Japan, there was tilting of monolithic RC spandrel walls installed as handrails on the edges of balconies. - Depending on the mode of shaking during an earthquake, a heavy RC spandrel wall could fall from a high place. If there are large cracks, separated concrete cover, deficiency, the coming out of dissolved rust of reinforcing bars, or other signs of degradation, it is necessary to pay special attention. - In response to an accident where a similar balcony (made of precast concrete) fell due to corrosion and rupture of mounting hardware supposed to be due to aged degradation, MEXT sent notification to ask for thorough maintenance in Photo 1: Tilted RC spandrel wall on the edge of a balcony ( Thorough operation and maintenance of existing school facilities, administrative circular, April 23, 2010)

73 V. Inner walls (interior material) Inner walls (interior materials) commonly used in schools include the following: Types of inner wall (interior material) commonly used in schools Inner walls (interior material) Wet type Dry type Other *See p.73 for walls in the front part of a stage in a gymnasium Mortar (p.71), Lath sheet mortar (p.72) etc. Finish board (p.72), etc. Concrete block (p.73) Generally, wet-type interior materials have lower capability to follow the behavior of the substrate compared with dry-type ones Because wet-type inner walls, concrete blocks, etc. could fall as a large block at the time of an earthquake, it is dangerous if mortar finish is used in a high place. Pay special attention to the backside of stairs and tilted ceilings (walls), because they are often passed by during an inspection. Inner walls (interior material)/ (1) Mortar 1) Separation, etc. Visual /sounding resistance Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or hollows in the mortar? - If any abnormalities such as many cracks are found by visual inspection, check for hollows by sounding, etc. - If there is a hollow under mortar, sounding will produce dull sound (resonant sound if there are no hollows.) - If there are successive hollows, there is a risk of separation at the time of an earthquake. - If any hollows are found under the mortar, consult an expert and reinforce the mortar with anchor pins, etc. or repair the armoring material, for example remove some mortar as needed. Photo 1: Checking for hollows by sounding Photo 2: Mortar fell off an inner wall 71

74 Inner walls (interior material)/ (2) Lath sheet mortar, etc. 1) Separation, etc. Drawing /Visual /Sounding resistance Are there no separations, deficiencies, cracks or bulging in the mortar? - The falling off of lath sheet mortar, etc. is especially dangerous because they could fall as a large plate, causing heavy damage. - Because lath sheet mortar, etc. are at risk of falling off due to degradation of the base material, aged facilities require special attention. - If there are hollows, etc. in mortar, take measures such as reinforcement with anchor pins and removal of mortar as needed. - Because lath sheet mortar, etc. have little capability to accommodate themselves to deformation, make modifications using lighter siding, boards or other interior materials as needed. Removing work Photo 1: After removing a hanging wall (portion enveloped with dotted line) Inner walls (interior material)/ (3) Finish board 1) Bulging, etc. Visual /manipulation resistance Are there no bulging, looseness, shears or water-leak traces in the boards? - Because weak base material sometimes causes finish board to bulge, check for out-of-plane bulging or loosening of the finish board. - In particular, elements with a large supporting span, such as wall in the front part of a stage, are likely to generate shearing in the finish board (including planar irregularity.) - If a finish board is bulging, sheared, etc., consult an expert and modify the finish board as needed. Photo 1: Fallen interior wall boards Photo 2: Fallen interior wall boards Figure 1: Bulging of finish boards (image) 72

75 Inner walls (interior material)/ (4) Concrete block partition wall 1) Specification Drawing resistance Is the concrete block wall installed (partition wall) according to adequate specifications? 2) Binding (securing) to the structure Visual resistance Are concrete blocks bound (secured) to each other using reinforcing bars, and their circumference adequately anchored to the structure, etc.? 3) Deficiency, etc. Visual resistance Are there no bulging, deficiencies or cracks in the concrete block wall or damage to its masonry joints? - Apply descriptions of Outer walls (armoring material)/concrete block Inner walls (interior material)/ (5) Walls in the front part of a stage in a gymnasium 1) Finished surface Visual resistance Are there no loose screws or nails, or bulging, shears or dirt on the boards? 2) Binding (securing) to the structure Is the base material bound to the structure (steel frame, etc.)? Drawing /Visual resistance - A wall in the front part of a stage is vulnerable to tremors in an out-of-plane direction because of its large area and wide span. Furthermore, in the case of a steel construction that suffers a large deformation during an earthquake, its walls would not be able to follow the deformation of the structure, causing the finish board to separate from the wall on the front part of the stage. - Insufficient binding (securing) poses a danger of a large area falling off. - If there are loose screws or nails, the board is at risk of falling. - If there is bulging, shear, or dirt on the board, the substrate might not be constituted well or might have deteriorated with age. - If the interval between screws or base material is significantly wide or there are fallen or loose screws, etc., it is desirable to give priority to the modification of the part. - If binding of the base material to the structure is insufficient, it is desirable to replace the wall at the time of a large-scale renovation, for example. - If the wall is easily deformed, ensuring rigidity of the roof braces may be an option. - Large walls at the entrance (opposite the stage) also require attention. Photo 1: Fallen wall in the front part of a stage 73

76 VI. Equipment items Equipment items/ (1) Broadcast equipment/athletic instruments 1) Mounting part (securing) Visual resistance Are broadcast equipment and athletic instruments secured to supporting material? - Heavy broadcast equipment placed in high places, such as speakers, and athletic instruments, such as basket goals, would be dangerous if they fell due to the shock of an earthquake. - Broadcast equipment and athletic instruments in gymnasiums mounted in a high place could be especially dangerous if they should fall. - If they are not secured or it is not sure if they are secured, consult an expert and study the need for measures. 2) Mounting hardware Is none of the mounting hardware loose, corroded or broken? Visual /manipulation resistance - If any mounting hardware is found to be loose, the equipment item could fall off due to the shock of an earthquake. - If there are loose mounting hardware, etc., consult an expert and make modifications as needed. Photo 1: Speakers, etc., in a gymnasium Photo 2: Mounting parts of athletic equipment 74

77 Equipment items/ (2) Air conditioner outdoor units, etc. 1) Mounting part (securing) Visual resistance Are air conditioner outdoor units and the hot-water supply system secured to support material? - Air conditioner outdoor units installed on an eave or balcony might fall off due to the shock of an earthquake if they are not secured to supporting material. Give priority to checking units installed over a pathway. - If they are not secured or it is not certain that they are secured, consult an expert and study the need for measures. Photo 1: Air-conditioner outdoor units mounted on upper floors Photo 2: Air conditioner outdoor unit tumbled and fell. Photo 3: Tilted hot-water supply equipment 2) Mounting parts (deformation, etc.) Are there no deformed, corroded or broken mounting parts? Visual /manipulation resistance - The corrosion of anchor bolts used for mounting to the structure leads to poor strength with the risk of separation during an earthquake. - If any mounting part or mounting bolt of an air conditioner outdoor unit is found to be deformed, corroded or broken, there is the risk of the unit moving and falling off. - If there are loose mounting hardware, etc., consult an expert and make modifications as needed. Photo 1: Corroded mounting part Topic for reference Based on the revision of Establishing structural methods of building equipment that are safe in terms of structural bearing force (Construction Ministry Notification No in 2000) and its enforcement on April 1, 2013, it is necessary to take earthquake resistance enhancement measures also for hot-water supply equipment. 75

78 Topic for reference Even if not mounted in a high place, large equipment such as machine tools for training of technical high schools could cause serious damage if they should move or tumble. It is necessary to take measures against their moving/tumbling. Photo 1: Example of an earthquake protection measure for large machine tools for training Photo 2: Machine moved by an earthquake VII. Televisions, etc. Televisions, etc./ Hanging TVs/ air conditioners 1) Mounting parts (securing) Visual /manipulation resistance Are hanging TV racks and hanging air conditioners secured to the structure? - Check whether they are directly hung from the structure. - Check for anomalies, including leaning equipment and other unstable mounting, which causes swinging when pushed by hand or generates an abnormal sound. - If they are not secured or it is not certain that they are secured, consult an expert and study the need for measures. Structure Hanging material Post-construction anchor Ceiling material Photo 1: Hanging TV Photo 2: Hanging air conditioner Figure 1: Example of installation of a hanging television 76

79 VIII. Expansion joints 1) Clearance of expansion joints Does the expansion joint have sufficient clearance? Drawing resistance - Clearance of expansion joint should not below one hundredth of the height, in principle - If the clearance is insufficient, the adjacent buildings might come into collision causing damage to surrounding ceilings, outer/inner walls, etc. - If the clearance is insufficient, consider measures including staying away from the joint during an earthquake. - Countermeasures may be taken at the opportunity of reconstruction of the building. - It is necessary to study measures together with an expert in structure. 2) Cover material of expansion joints Drawing resistance Does the cover material have adequate performance in terms of deformation accommodation? - Check whether the cover material has adequate deformation-accommodation performance for the clearance of the expansion joint. - If an appropriate cover material is not used, it might fall or cause damage to the surrounding structure and nonstructural members. - Check also whether the cover material has not come off. - Cover material may be connected to the structure using wire to prevent falling. Topic for reference Falling off of outer wall, etc. of a connecting corridor - If the connecting corridor is a steel construction supported by an adjacent building, there is concern about horizontal displacement of the corridor, excessive deformation of the outer wall, collision with an adjacent building, and even the collapse of the corridor itself. - It is desirable to design a connecting corridor as an independent structure with isolated columns. - In order to avoid collision with the adjacent buildings due to shaking, it is necessary to ensure adequate clearance between buildings based on the volume of the expansion joint to follow the deformation. - As a temporary measure, eaves may be installed over the entrance or plants may be used to keep people away from the dangerous place. Clearance should be h/100 or more in principle Figure 1: Example of a structural measure Independent 77

80 Ch.6 Concrete Examples of Inspection establishers are making efforts according to their situation including the number of schools and availability of technical staff. It is important to clarify your objective and use ingenuity. Case 1: Enhancing earthquake protection for nonstructural members in a well-planned manner as part of major refurbishment (Kawasaki City, Kanagawa) Basic data of Kawasaki City (as of February 2015) - Population: about 1,462,000 - Number of schools: 113 elementary, 52 junior-high, 5 high and 4 special needs education schools - Number of staff members of the responsible department of the board of education: 33 (technical staff among them: 5) Points The city assesses the safety of its facilities including nonstructural members and unifies management of facility information in a Chart as one of the indicators of measures for lifelong duration of school facilities. The city has formulated a Long-term Facility Maintenance Plan with a focus on lifelong duration of the facilities based on the assessment results, etc. The city will make focused efforts on major refurbishment of deteriorated facilities while promoting measures to deal with deterioration and make qualitative improvement of the education environment in a well-planned manner. <Creating Chart inspection and assessment of school facilities> Toward efficient management of aging school facilities, the city implemented a survey covering all schools from FY2011 to 2012 to surely grasp the condition of their facilities. The facility information is quantitatively evaluated and unified in Chart. - Using Concerning Facility Evaluation: Improvement of Facilities [Final Edition], March 2009, the Committee for Research Studies on the Visions of Facilities, as reference, the city made evaluation from the five perspectives of safety, comfort, adaptability to learning activities, adaptability to the environment and other. - The city assessed the condition side with items of safety, comfort and other through on-site investigation (visual investigation by qualified persons), and the operational side with items of adaptability to learning activities by using a questionnaire and hearing survey, and used CASBEE- (Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency for school) for adaptability to the environment. - Assessment was conducted for each building registered with the facility ledger. Assessment results of the individual building were divided proportionally to their floor area for assessment of the entire school. - Assessment results of the five items were visualized in radar charts, which, combined with basic information including structure, size, area, building year/month and repair history, were unified into Chart of facility information. Inspection/assessment of school facilities and utilization of Chart - Used for examination of development menus for facility refurbishment (renewal development) based on the long-term school facility maintenance plan - Response to individual challenges in order to ensure a safe and comfortable education environment (including earthquake protection for nonstructural members) - Progress management based on preventive maintenance Example of Chart Update of Chart - Data are continuously updated based on the results of the regular inspection implemented once every three years by the school based on Article 12 of the Building Standards Act, questionnaire survey of condition of operation, repair record, etc. 78

81 <Inspection of nonstructural members implemented by Kawasaki City> Inspection implemented by the school establisher - Inspection of nonstructural members is implemented using the Guidebook during building inspections based on Article 12 of the Building Standards Act. The inspections cover a broad range of school facilities, including safety check of play equipment and athletic instruments in the playground (regular inspection of school buildings, etc.) - One third of school facilities are inspected every year to complete inspection of all school facilities in a 3-year cycle according to the legal requirements. - Inspection is commissioned to professional business to carry out investigation (visual, manipulation and sounding) by qualified persons. - In addition, facility assessment from the operational aspect through questionnaire/hearing survey is also updated. Inspection implemented by the school - Inspection is implemented as a part of safety checks based on the Health Act once every month on a day nominated by the school. - In addition to the Guidebook distributed by the school establisher, Safety Education at s to Cultivate a Zest for Living (MEXT) and Guide to Safety compiled by the city are used for inspection. Guide to Safety compiled by the city Example of school layout drawing showing items pointed out in safety check Used also for information sharing among school personnel <Example of development using Chart> Refurbishment work of an elementary school (model implementation) - Renewing deteriorated school building for long duration while improving the quality of the education environment - Refurbishment was planned for improvement focused on adaptability to the environment based on the analysis of the Chart Radar Chart of assessment of the entire school Other Safety Comfort Refurbishment for renewal development Coating of steel parts such as handrails Light shelf or eaves Modification of external sash (multi-layer glass or double sash) Repair and coating of outer wall Coating of ceilings Night purge (ventilation) Installation of solar panels Improving efficiency of lighting equipment Heat insulation of walls Introduction of wooden spandrel Floor refurbishment (polishing and coating or using long wood pattern vinyl chloride sheet) Vertical sliding blackboard Renewal to wooden partition Rooftop waterproofing repair Heat insulation of roof Heating zone Night purge (ventilation) Modification of external sash (multi-layer glass or double sash) Introduction of wooden spandrel Repair and coating of outer wall Floor refurbishment (using long wood pattern vinyl chloride sheet) Adaptability to the environment Adaptability to learning activities - Outline of the development Introduction of multi-layered glass and replacement with high-efficiency lighting equipment (Adaptability to the environment) Modification of partitions (Adaptability to learning activities) Refurbishment of inner/outer walls (Safety) Installation of an elevator (Comfort) Before the refurbishment protection measures for nonstructural members are implemented as part of measures to deal with deterioration and to make qualitative development After the refurbishment 79

82 Case 2: Continuous inspection for early detection of abnormalities (Ninomiya Town, Kanagawa) Basic data of Ninomiya Town (as of February 2015) - Population: about 2,900,000 - Number of schools: 3 elementary and 2 junior-high schools - Number of staff members of the responsible department of the board of education: 9 (facility staff and technical staff among them: 2 and 0 respectively) Points Under the severe fiscal situation and lacking staff specialized in architecture, the schools and the school establisher collaborate to implement continuous inspections utilizing the guidebook toward detection of and response to abnormalities at an early stage. In addition to the safety check carried out by the schools once every month based on the Health Act, the schools and the school establishers implement inspection once every year. All classrooms, corridors, etc. are numbered serially and their state of degradation is checked every fiscal year to grasp how they have aged Purpose/background of inspection of requesting school Inspection timing and number of days required for inspection Inspection method Response based on the inspection Other points and effect of the initiative - In order to ensure the safety of children, pupils, etc. under the severe fiscal situation, the schools and school establisher implemented continuous inspection using the guidebook for detection of and response to abnormalities of nonstructural members at an early stage. - Continuously implemented since 2011, learning from the Great East Japan - Request for investigation is issued in mid-june every year (for the first year, the school establisher provided the schools with direct explanation in addition to documents to ask for their cooperation) - The school completes inspection by end-july, based on which the school establisher implements inspection during the summer vacation. - Inspection by a school takes about two days; that by the school establisher takes about half a day. - Results are compiled in the following September to enable their use for the budget for the following year - All classrooms, corridors, etc. are numbered serially and their state of degradation is checked every fiscal year - Progress of degradation and aging (ex. the crack has grown larger compared with the last year ) are grasped through fixed point observation - Urgency of detected abnormalities is determined with expert advice. - Minor problems are addressed as promptly as possible - Urgent problems including progression of degradation are addressed using an extra budget, etc. - Due to the severe fiscal situation, countermeasures are implemented according to urgency based on an annual plan (ex. A crack was found in eaves of a school building, but, failing to secure a budget for the full cost of the countermeasure in the fiscal year, only mortar removal and rust proofing of reinforcing bars (eliminating danger) were implemented in the year and real refurbishment was implemented in the following fiscal year and after. - For implementation of measures and securing of budget, it is important to accumulate information through continuous annual inspection of degradation progress, etc. - Continuing inspection of nonstructural members expanded the scope of everyday safety checks by school. <Examples of earthquake protection measures implemented based on the inspection> Inspection by numbering all classrooms, corridors, etc. serially Before the refurbishment After the refurbishment Cracks were found in eaves through inspection and repaired A rack is secured to the wall. 80

83 Case 3: Commissioning inspection and evaluation of inspection results to experts (Kawajima Town, Saitama) Basic data of Kawajima Town (as of February 2015) - Population: about 2,100,000 - Number of schools: 6 elementary and 2 junior-high schools - Number of staff members of the responsible department of the board of education: 9 (facility staff and technical staff among them: 1 and 0 respectively) Point Because it is difficult to implement technical inspection and determine the danger based on the inspection results due to the lack of staff specialized in architecture not only in the board of education but also in the town office, the town commissioned experts to implement inspection using the guidebook and propose countermeasure constructions and assess priority based on the inspection result. Purpose/background of inspection of requesting school Inspection timing and number of days required for inspection Inspection method Response based on the inspection Other points and effect of the initiative - In light of the Great East Japan earthquake the town determined the direction for the strengthening of its disaster prevention capability (fiscal 2011) - In order to ensure the safety of children, pupils, etc. and secure functions as an evaluation shelter of the community, the town decided to implement inspection covering all school facilities in order to take measures for earthquake protection for nonstructural members (fiscal 2012) - Due to a lack of technical staff, inspection was implemented partly by commissioning experts. - s were asked to carry out inspection in line with the guidebook and submit the results. - The commissioned design office implemented inspection taking one to two days per school. - Inspections by schools were implemented during summer vacation. They took one to two days per school. - Inspections of all elementary and lower secondary schools were implemented based on the Guidebook and the design office was commissioned to propose countermeasure constructions and their order of priority (3-grade evaluation of A, B and C) based on the inspection results. - In response to the proposal of countermeasure constructions and assessment of priority, the town estimated the cost of necessary constructions. - The priority order of the measures was studied in the town office. 1) Measures were implemented with priority given to school gymnasiums that will serve as evacuation shelters (2013) 2) Later, other measures have been implemented in the order of elementary school buildings and lower secondary school buildings within the range of the budget of the year (since 2014) - Expenses to repair school facilities necessary on a daily basis are not included in the budget allocated to the school but are allocated to the board of education in the bloc that responds to repair request from individual schools. - The board of education tries to promptly implement requested repairs so that the schools maintain their motivation for safety check. <Examples of earthquake protection measures implemented based on the inspection> Fall prevention for lighting equipment (Changing from hanging-type to direct mounting and installing wire to prevent falling) protection measure for racks (secured to the wall using metal fittings) protection measure for gymnasium (Changed to sashes with elastic sealing) protection measure for piano (feet are fixed using anti-vibration rubber) 81