oq-gem

Glossary for gem taxonomy

Authors: Luke Allen, Andrew Charleson, Svetlana Brzev, and Charles Scawthorn

This online Glossary explains around 400 terms contained in the GEM Building Taxonomy v 2.0 and nearly 700 images.

The terms have been listed in alphabetical and numerical order. Text description of each term is accompanied by illustrations (photos and/or drawings) where possible.

We welcome contributions in the form of photographs or images, illustrating glossary terms. If you have any questions you can also contact us at buildingtaxonomy@globalquakemodel.org


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Height of ground floor level above grade [HF]

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Category: terms
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Grade is the level of the ground at the perimeter of the building. This attribute records the height of the ground floor level of the building above grade.

The height of ground floor level above grade can be recorded as an exact number, or as a range, or as an approximate number. It can also be recorded as unknown.

Grade is usually somewhat lower than the ground floor level, and this information is relevant for flood hazard and foundation seismic performance.

HF_diagram_-_1

An example of how the height of the ground floor level above grade is measured on a flat site

HF_Cambodia_Scawthorn_1

Height of ground floor level above grade in this dwelling in Cambodia is at least 2 meters (C. Scawthorn)