Empirical approaches to structural seismic vulnerability: index-based methods and practical applications

This chapter presents a focused examination of empirical approaches to assessing structural seismic vulnerability, with an emphasis on index-based methods and their practical applications. It outlines how visual inspections, post-earthquake damage assessments, and statistical evaluations contribute to the development of vulnerability indices, particularly in regions lacking detailed structural data or seismic design records. The limitations of these approaches – such as reliance on expert judgement, inconsistent parameter weighting, and difficulties in addressing complex structural behaviours – are critically assessed. Using case examples and referencing established frameworks like the GNDT and European Macroseismic methods, the chapter highlights both the utility and constraints of empirical models. It concludes by advocating for context-sensitive application of these methods, especially in data-scarce environments, while suggesting integration with analytical tools for improved seismic risk evaluation.