Most concrete buildings built prior to 1977 are non-ductile concrete. “Non-ductile” means inflexible or brittle. Due to a lack of reinforcing steel in buildings designed before the implementation of the 1976 building code, these older buildings may not safely resist forces caused by earthquakes. They are more likely to sustain heavy damages and pose a significant risk for loss of life.
Read about The City of Los Angeles’ mandatory retrofit ordinance for non-ductile concrete buildings here.
