The Seismic Advisory Board (SAB) is an established Peer Review Group of persons qualified by training and experience in earthquake engineering and the seismic safety of transportation structures in California. The SAB has been providing expert advice through the review of Caltrans’ seismic policy and design guidelines and standards for transportation structures since 1989, following the Loma Prieta Earthquake. In addition, the SAB will provide the public with explanations regarding Caltrans’ seismic safety policies and procedures.

Purpose:

The Seismic Advisory Board is an independent body whose role is to advise Caltrans on seismic policy and technical practices to enhance the seismic safety and functionality of California’s transportation structures.

Mission:

The mission of the Seismic Advisory Board is to assist Caltrans in its role and obligation to provide seismic safety of California’s transportation structures through:

1. Continued review of earthquake engineering and seismic design as practiced by Caltrans.
2. Formulation of recommendations for improvements in Caltrans earthquake engineering and seismic design practices.
3. Policy review of seismic hazard definition and mitigation directives.
4. Technical review of seismic design guidelines and standards for transportation structures.
5. Review and comment on Caltrans seismic research agenda and priorities.
6. Being available to provide the general public with explanations regarding Caltrans’ seismic safety policies and procedures for maintaining safety and functionality of California’s transportation structures.

Publications:

Caltrans Seismic Advisory Board publications include:

• Competing Against Time May 1990
• The Continuing Challenge October 1994
• The Race to Seismic Safety December 2003
• Closing the Gap in the Race to Seismic Safety May 2010