HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RELEASES IN THE NORTH-RIDGE EARTHQUAKE - IMPLICATIONS FOR SEISMIC RISK ASSESSMENT

In recent years, increasing attention has been given to the problem of earthquake-initiated hazardous materials releases (EIHRs). While the evidence indicates that EHIRs are an important part of the earthquake hazard profile, little attention has been given to documenting them in a way that could form the basis for more systematic estimates of thei r probability and consequences. Data from the January 17, 1994 Northri dge earthquake document the range and nature of hazardous materials ev ents in the impact area, including those at fixed-site facilities and in transportation systems. Proportional estimates of hazmat incidence are provided, and the implications of these data for developing risk a ssessments and earthquake hazard management are discussed.