Buildings are assigned to Seismic Use Groups on the basis of _______.

Buildings are assigned to Seismic Use Groups primarily on the basis of a community’s need.

Community’s need is the foundational criterion for assigning buildings to Seismic Use Groups, reflecting the prioritization of structures based on their importance and role in post-disaster scenarios. This approach ensures that buildings essential to emergency response, recovery, and the well-being of the population, such as hospitals, emergency services, and high-occupancy public buildings, receive the highest level of attention in terms of seismic safety standards. By aligning seismic safety measures with the community’s need, the framework not only enhances the resilience of critical infrastructure but also optimizes the allocation of resources towards protecting the most vulnerable and essential facilities in the event of an earthquake.