A RECOMMENDATION FOR DEVELOPING NOVEL CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS IN HONG KONG DESIGNED TO MITIGATE EARTHQUAKES

Hong Kong, though traditionally regarded as a region of low to moderate seismic risk, faces growing concern over the adequacy of its construction regulations in mitigating earthquake-related hazards. With over seven million residents and a highly vertical, densely packed built environment, the city remains vulnerable to the effects of seismic activity originating from nearby regions such as Guangdong and Taiwan. This study conducts a quantitative investigation into the need for novel earthquake-resistant construction regulations tailored to Hong Kong’s unique geotechnical and infrastructural characteristics. Utilizing a cross-sectional survey of 210 professionals from the engineering, architecture, planning, and governmental sectors, the research evaluates perceptions of seismic risk, the adequacy of existing building codes, and support for seismic policy reform. Results indicate that 80% of respondents believe current standards are insufficient for addressing seismic threats, and 88% support the introduction of updated building codes incorporating seismic resistance. A finite element analysis of 150 structural models revealed that 62% of older buildings fail to meet international seismic performance criteria under simulated tremors. Furthermore, cost-benefit modeling suggests that the average construction cost increase for incorporating seismic upgrades is 4.8%, while long-term savings from damage mitigation exceed 60%. Regression analysis highlights professional experience and employment sector as significant predictors of support for new codes. The findings underscore a critical policy and technical gap in Hong Kong’s approach to disaster-resilient infrastructure and provide a foundation for comprehensive regulatory reform. This study concludes with recommendations for seismic microzonation, mandatory seismic assessments, incentives for retrofitting, and public awareness initiatives, aligning with global best practices and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.