An expert from the Association of Consulting Engineers (ACEM) has addressed public concerns regarding building safety in light of earthquakes in neighboring countries. The expert assures that buildings constructed in accordance with the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL) are designed to withstand low levels of ground shake by factoring in gravity and lateral wind loads.
According to the representative, Chin Lee Leng, high-rise buildings and existing structures possess the inherent strength to withstand low seismic activity and ground tremors. This comes as a result of the lessons learned from the Highland Tower collapse in Hulu Kelang, Selangor in 1993, which led authorities to impose stricter regulations on hillslope development.
Chin also mentioned that guidelines for development planning in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and other states have been put in place. A Technical Committee for Environmentally Sensitive Areas, consisting of various agencies, has been tasked with scrutinizing all planning approvals for development in these areas.
No official circular or directive has been issued for building inspections following recent tremors. However, buildings are subject to periodic inspections to ensure their fitness for occupancy under the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133), clarified Chin.
For buildings within the purview of Kuala Lumpur City Hall, inspections are required 10 years after the issuance of their certificate of completion and compliance, particularly for buildings exceeding five storeys. In addition, standard operating procedures for building management and maintenance mandate routine inspections by maintenance crews.
If necessary, qualified third-party personnel, such as building inspectors or professional engineers, will be called upon to conduct assessments and provide maintenance and repair solutions, added Chin.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
