New tsunami safety standards, known as ASCE 7-16 were recently developed by a subcommittee from the American Society of Civil Engineers along with engineers and researchers at Oregon State University’s Wave Research Lab.
The standards apply only to steel-reinforced concrete buildings located in an ‘inundation zone.’ Buildings that follow the guidelines will be stronger and safer while incurring only moderate increases in cost. ASCE 7-16 standards are good for six years and will be part of the International Building Code.