Two of the objectives of NEHRP were to educate the public about earthquake risk reduction and increase the use of existing scientific and engineering knowledge to mitigate earthquake hazards.

By educating state and local officials, private industry, and the general public, NEHRP aims to foster a culture of preparedness and resilience. This educational component is crucial for ensuring that communities understand the risks associated with earthquakes and the measures they can take to reduce these risks. Additionally, by promoting the use of existing scientific and engineering knowledge, NEHRP encourages the adoption of innovative design and construction methods that can significantly mitigate the impact of earthquakes on buildings and infrastructure. This dual focus on education and practical application serves to enhance the overall effectiveness of earthquake hazard reduction efforts across the United States.

From the perspective of emergency management professionals, the objectives of NEHRP align closely with the goals of creating safer, more prepared communities. These professionals recognize the value of public education in building community resilience and the importance of applying scientific and engineering knowledge to develop infrastructure that can withstand seismic events.