Seismic protection of museum objects: Comparative analysis of international seismic codes

Abstract

This study conducts a systematic comparative analysis of nine principal international seismic codes, focusing on their provisions for non-structural elements and their adequacy for protecting museum artifacts housed within buildings. While these standards share a consistent force-based framework for general non-structural components, they rarely address the distinct vulnerabilities of museum objects, such as low fragility thresholds, irreplaceability, and conservation constraints that often prohibit invasive anchoring. The results indicate that, although fundamental parameters (e.g., component weight and spectral acceleration) are universally included, advanced modifying factors, such as response reduction, resonance, and strength-related terms, are incorporated in only a limited number of codes, with overall parameter coverage ranging from 4 to 11. Even in the most parameter-rich formulations, the added complexity primarily refines inertial force scaling rather than governing artifact-specific stability mechanisms, including sliding, rocking, and overturning. The findings demonstrate that current seismic codes provide limited reliability for protecting museum objects when applied without adaptation. This research highlights the need for mechanism-aware extensions to existing code frameworks. It provides a foundation for the development of museum-specific seismic provisions to safeguard irreplaceable cultural heritage from earthquake hazards.