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


Small wood members typically with maximum dimensions in the order of 100 mm. Usually, they are closely-spaced. Light wood framed house construction, which usually includes sheet linings or wood boards that provide most of the bracing is classified as a Wall lateral load-resisting system.

Light Timber Members 1.JPG

Light Wood Framing, New Zealand (A.Charleson)

WLI_Japan_Scawthorn_1

Modern Japanese house under construction, showing full storey diagonal bracing (note, some bracing is only temporary) (C. Scawthorn)