2005 NBCC article 4.1.8.1 exempts buildings from earthquake requirements if their S(0.2) is less than or equal to 0.12. Is the importance factor (Ie) intentionally forgotten in this statement? Does this apply to design of Post-Disaster facilities also? Except for this article, most all other articles of this subsection include the importance factor.

Ron DeVall has provided following clarification: "The intent is to only relate to Hazard-not risk-for the initial cut-off level. Once the design starts for areas where the hazard S(0.2) is high enough to trigger design, it then incorporates the Ie value to account for the risk. There was much discussion of this at the committee and it may continue into the next cycle. However, for 2005 and 2010 it is for the hazard only. Be careful about the soil conditions though, as poor soil will raise the hazard level and may trigger design." (FYI: Ron DeVall is chairman of what used to be called CANCEE, the committee that writes NBCC 2005, Section 4.1.8).