Experimental seismic performance assessment of hospital building contents

A full scale three-dimensional model of a consultation room is constructed and tested dynamically by using the shaking table facility of the University of Naples, Italy. The outcomes of the tests have been utilized to derive fragility curves based on a systemic approach. Simplified finite element models of the tested components are implemented in a commercial computer platform for numerical calibration and simulation of the dynamic response. It is demonstrated that simple models are able to adequately simulate the dynamic properties of sample medical components and can be employed in the earthquake response analysis of healthcare facilities. Preliminary studies on the fragility of rigid blocks highlight that PGA and PGV can be selected as good candidates for efficient intensity measures for rocking and collapse damage states, respectively