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ASCE 7 Nonstructural Component and Equipment Design

Updated Apr 3, 2026
Addresses seismic and wind design of mechanical equipment, fixtures, and architectural elements.

ASCE 7 Chapter 13 addresses nonstructural components that must be anchored to resist lateral forces. HVAC equipment, lighting fixtures, piping, and electrical equipment are at risk during earthquakes and strong winds. Acceleration at the equipment location is higher than building floor acceleration due to building flexibility. Fragility (probability of damage) increases with increasing acceleration. Equipment must be anchored to prevent falling, which could damage equipment below or injure occupants. Flexible connections to utilities permit equipment movement without rupturing pipes or cables.

TAGS
asce7seismic-designequipment
DETAILS
section
13
category
Seismic Design
code body
ASCE
code year
2022
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