A critique of the earthquake policies in northern Cyprus

Abstract

The same building codes and specifications have been used in Turkey and northern Cyprus for more than 30 years. Similarly, the most preferred technologies are the same in both countries. One of the most frequently used building technologies is that of the reinforced-concrete frame system with non-load-bearing brick walls. When earthquakes occur in Turkey, however, this system frequently causes serious structural problems, culminating in building collapse and a huge loss of human life. Building codes, including those of Turkey and northern Cyprus, usually include solutions to these problems, which can only be carried out by structural engineers, but which ignore the existence of other possible solutions, which may also be carried out by architects. The research objectives of this paper are to carry out a preliminary investigation into the existence of the same or similar problems in northern Cyprus and to identify and propose a more appropriate strategy to combat and resolve the problem. The paper draws two conclusions: (i) it is worth carrying out more detailed research into the degree of the earthquake resistance of the reinforced-concrete buildings in northern Cyprus; (ii) it is better to propose a multiplicity of solutions to connect all of the related professions in the common aim of developing a social strategy, which will combat earthquakes.