Importance Factor

Plain Definition: A multiplier in seismic design that adjusts demands based on building use and consequence of failure.

Technical Description: Applied to base shear or spectral acceleration. Higher for essential facilities, lower for low-occupancy buildings.

Use in Design: Defined by codes like ASCE 7 to reflect societal risk tolerance.

Meta Title: Importance Factor in Seismic Design | Risk Category Modifier

Meta Description: Learn what the importance factor is and how it changes seismic loads for different buildings.

Related Terms: Response Modification Factor, Risk Category, Redundancy Factor

← Back to Glossary