This paper describes the seismic hazard in Hong Kong and compares the findings with other published data. The paper describes the magnification of bedrock acceleration found at three deep soil sites which are typical for Hong Kong reclamation sites.
An appropriate seismic design procedure is presented for typical building structures in Hong Kong founded on bedrock and reclamation sites. The recommendation are briefly compared with the United States Uniform Building Code and the Chinese Code requirements.
The paper concludes that seismic design for buildings in Hong Kong will generally not effect high rise buildings. However, low rise buildings and transfer structures are more susceptible and should be checked for seismic loading in design.
The seismic design method processed in this paper is broadly based on the recommendations currently being considered in New York.