Inspection of dams following earthquake - guidelines

Large dams should be able to resist the effects of the strongest ground shaking to be expected at the dam site. However, major damage is accepted as long as there is no catastrophic release of water from the reservoir.

Accordingly, the inspection of dams following earthquakes is an important aspect in the integral safety concept of dams.

The bulletin was first published in 1988. Since then a few earthquakes have occurred, which have also caused damage to dams.