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Seismic Assessment of Flat Slab Low Rise Structures in Moderate Seismic Regions
Cilwik, James
Cilwik, James
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Abstract
Vermont is an area with low to moderate seismic hazard as specified by USGS and ASCE 7-
22. A statewide building code was not adopted in Vermont until 1972 as specified by the
Vermont Fire and Building Safety Code. As a result, most structures in the region did not
utilize modern seismic resistant detailing prior to this date. A design check against the
current structural codes for a typical flat slab low-rise reinforced concrete building was
conducted with a focus on seismic demands as this type of structure is especially
vulnerable. A three-dimensional finite element model of the building structure was
formulated to determine the structural response, including internal forces and
displacements. Column and slab elements were checked for the combined effect of axial,
bending and shear for all relevant load combinations. The results suggest that shear
demand for the seismic load case in the first-floor columns exceeds the expected
capacity. This appears to be the only major seismic vulnerability of the structure, and it is
consistent with a soft-story failure mechanism. This study points to the need for a
comprehensive assessment of these structures focusing on the shear capacity of first floor
columns.
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2026-04
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CEMS