Why Accelerographs Are Essential for Earthquake Preparedness and Safety Compliance

Published on September 30, 2025
By Anghelli Lingo

Earthquakes can strike without warning, that’s why meeting safety codes is a top priority in disaster preparedness for buildings. To better understand and respond to these unpredictable events, instruments like the seismograph and earthquake accelerograph are used to detect and record ground movement.

Multi-Line Building Systems (MBI) helps builders and property owners strengthen their earthquake preparedness through reliable monitoring and recording solutions. Be prepared and compliant with the latest safety standards. Explore our earthquake accelerograph system here.

How Are Earthquakes Detected?

Earthquakes are detected through instruments that measure vibrations and ground motion caused by shifting tectonic plates. These instruments translate them into data that scientists, engineers, and safety officials can study. By monitoring ground activity, experts can locate the source of an earthquake, determine its magnitude, and assess its potential impact.

Beyond scientific research, earthquake detection also plays a practical role in keeping people safe. In some countries, modern technology has enabled earthquake warning systems that can send alerts seconds before strong shaking reaches a community. While these alerts may be brief, they provide valuable time for people to take protective action and prepare for impact.

When it comes to evaluating how earthquakes affect buildings and infrastructure, another tool is needed: the earthquake accelerograph. An accelerograph is a type of seismograph that measures ground vibrations and records the actual acceleration of the ground during an earthquake. In simpler terms, it tells how fast and strong the shaking is at a specific site.

This makes accelerograph valuable for engineers and building designers, as it provides real-time data on the forces that structures must endure. With this knowledge, new buildings can be designed to be safer, and existing ones can be upgraded to be able to withstand future quakes.

Accelerograph is also valuable after an earthquake. The information it provides helps determine whether a building remains safe to occupy or if it needs urgent repairs. In short, it gives decision-makers the information they need to protect lives and to build and maintain stronger, more resilient structures.

FAQs

1. How do accelerographs benefit property owners compared to basic detection systems?

Accelerographs provide detailed quake data, letting engineers assess damage, decide on repairs or evacuation, support insurance or compliance claims, and improve future reinforcements. They also help meet Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regulatory requirements.

2. Is it mandatory to install an accelerograph in the Philippines?

It is required given the Philippines’ high seismic risk. The DPWH National Building Code Development Office (NBCDO) Memorandum Circular No. 01, Series of 2015, mandates that new buildings include accelerograph systems as part of permit and occupancy requirements. For existing buildings, it requires their inclusion as part of annual inspections or business permit process.

3. How can an accelerograph make a building more resilient in the long run?

• Installing accelerographs according to DPWH / NSCP guidelines enhances safety by:
• Triggering alarms or automatic shut-offs;
• Recording seismic data;
• Identifying weak spots so only necessary areas are reinforced;
• Providing post-quake data for safe reentry and repair decisions;
• Supporting compliance with DPWH / NSCP rules;
• Boosting confidence among insurers, tenants, and investors; and
• Supplying long-term data to guide future expansions or nearby structures.