Taiwan Today
Date: February 18, 2016
The recent magnitude 6.4 earthquake that struck Tainan City highlights the
The magnitude 6.4 earthquake that hit Tainan City focuses attention on the need for regular inspections of older Taiwan buildings. (CNA)
need for regular housing inspections and enhanced building safety standards so as to minimize loss of life and property damage from future temblors.
“The importance of housing inspections is underscored by the fact that 114 of the 116 quake victims died in a collapsed apartment complex,” said Su Yu-te, a spokesman from New Taipei City Architects Association.
According to Su, initial evidence revealed “deadly” flaws in the building. “The government must heighten public awareness in this regard and enforce stricter building codes,” he said.
“Many lives could have been saved had these problems been identified during regular inspections and a program of rectifications carried out.” [FULL STORY]
