Seismic Analysis, Retrofits and Upgrades
CYS has a long history of involvement in seismic investigations and retrofit designs for buildings and other structures. Our engineers actively participate in research and information-sharing efforts, drawing on knowledge from recent major seismic events. They are also deeply engaged in structural engineering organizations, committees, and educational initiatives, contributing to SEAOCC State Committees tasked with developing the next generation of design guidelines and building codes.
Our team possesses extensive expertise in evaluation techniques outlined in structural guidelines issued by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), including FEMA 356 (FEMA 273), FEMA 310 (FEMA 178), FEMA 267 and 267A (steel), ATC 40, and the International Building Code. This knowledge ensures that our designs meet the highest standards of safety and reliability.
Since 1994, CYS has been a key participant in the State Seismic Survey Program, assessing structural deficiencies in over 200 state buildings, determining Seismic Risk Levels, and proposing effective retrofit solutions.
CYS’ vast experience in analyzing and designing complex structures also includes recent innovative solutions such as:
- Base isolation for buildings
- Energy dissipation for buildings
- Energy dissipation for elevated water reservoirs
- Special moment resisting truss frames
- Emulative precast concrete special moment frames or shear walls
- Geopier foundation systems
- Concrete and masonry shear wall seismic renovation with composite fiberwrap
- Concrete column seismic renovation with composite fiberwrap
- Concrete column seismic renovation with steel jacket encasement
- Disaster Resistant Energy Efficient Structural System (DREESS) using Insulation Concrete Forms (ICFs)