why are doorways the safest place to stand in an earthquake?
In: Engineering
That’s actually not true for modern buildings!
This myth started because the walls in buildings used to be just a wall material,, with nothing inside. This means the walls had no support and would collapse easily when an earthquake occurred. Doorframes were frames in the wall meant to support the weight above them, meaning they were strong supports to the wall. Often times, this meant, they were left standing after an earthquake occurred. Today, since the walls are all supported on the inside, often with wood squares/triangles (frames), doorways are no longer as strong.
The best thing to do during an earthquake would be to get under any desk, chair, upside down bin, etc. as quick as possible. You’ll have better chances there than running for the nearest doorway.
Latest Answers