FRS (Fault Rating System): a quantitative classification of active faults for hazard evaluations

Abstract

The correct estimation of seismic hazards is a touchstone of seismic risk assessments. However, there is no quantitative or standard methodology to include the impacts of geological (i.e., seismo-tectonic) features of active faults or fault zones, and current classification schemes are not useful in hazard evaluations. Therefore, an attempt has been made to develop a methodology that integrates seismo-tectonic parameters of active faults to better inform urban and regional planning decisions. Fault rating system (FRS) provides a comparative review of faults/fault zones using a rating-based approach. In this approach, seven seismo-tectonic parameters are used to classify the fault/fault zone. Each of the seven parameters is assigned a value corresponding to the seismo-tectonic characteristics. The sum of the seven seismo-tectonic parameters is the fault index (FI) value, which lies in the range 0–100. A total of 64 important faults/fault zones were statistically analyzed to determine the best correlations with FI and moment magnitude (Mw) and peak ground acceleration (PGA). It was found that the FI values provide strong correlations with maximum Mw and PGA. It is proposed urban and regional planners use FRS to ensure a consistent approach in characterizing key aspects of active faults in earthquake-prone regions and in estimating ground motion parameters.

Graphical abstract