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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Category: terms
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It is not known whether there are any structural irregularities, or what type of irregularities may exist. The building hasn’t been inspected sufficiently to determine this, or this information about the building is unavailable.

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The structural system supporting the roof cladding of the building. Lean-to roofs or smaller parts of the roof that differ in structural material to the main roof are not considered.

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All roof types of earthen construction, including adobe-type covering with lathes. Includes 'green roof', 'sod roof', 'turf roof', where the roof is covered with a layer of soil on a waterproof membrane and planted with grass or plants.

RMT9_Iran_Naeim_1

Earthen roof covering, Iran (F. Naeim, World Housing Encyclopedia Report 104)

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A more detailed occupancy description than the Building occupancy class - general

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All types of clay tile and concrete tile roofing. Overlapping and sometimes fastened to wood battens. Also includes flat roofs that are covered with paving tiles (laid over some type of membrane), but does not include stone slabs.

RMT1_Cuba_Brzev_1

Clay tiles, Cuba (S. Brzev)

RMT1_Indonesia_Bothara_1

Clay tile roof covering, Padang, Indonesia (J. Bothara)

RMT1_India_Rawal_1

Clay tiles (Mangalore tiles), India (People in Centre)

  1. Masonry, confined [MCF]
  2. Bamboo, straw or thatch roof [RWO5]
  3. Multi-unit, unknown type [RES2]
  4. Offices, professional/technical services [COM3]

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