According to WorldAtlas, earthquakes are one of the most powerful natural disasters. They can damage not only populated areas but also cause tsunamis and landslides. Japan, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is one of the countries most affected by earthquakes globally. Japan has invested a lot of money in innovative technologies, advanced infrastructure, and other preparations to increase earthquake safety. In this article, you will be able to explore cutting-edge measures that Japan introduced into daily life to ensure the safety and resilience of citizens during seismic events. 

Earthquake-Resistant Infrastructure: Key to Japan’s Earthquake Safety

Photo credit: Canva

One of the most important aspects of Japan’s seismic resilience is its world-class infrastructure, which can withstand earthquakes. All components, such as houses, buildings, bridges, and even roads, are engineered to absorb earthquake energy. 

According to the Tokyo Portfolio, all buildings built after 1981 must comply with new anti-seismic standards and have three main types of seismic-resistant structures.

Seismic resistance: these structures are rigid (designed to prevent collapsing) or flexible (allows different parts of the structure to bend and distribute seismic force) 

Vibration control structure: In this type of structure, damping walls are used to reduce seismic motion. Vibration control relies on electricity or basic physical mechanisms that reduce earthquake force intensity by 70-80% compared to regular earthquake-resistant structures. 

Seismic Isolation structure: This type is commonly used in high-rise buildings. It involves placing earthquake source absorbing devices in the base of buildings made with different materials, like rubber, which can block seismic waves. 

Seismic Early Warning Systems in Japan

Photo credit: Canva

In Japan, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) is responsible for early warning systems that alert all residents before an earthquake. This alarm creates a window of a few seconds before a strong tremor arrives, assisting people in protecting themself. Some say that a few seconds can’t make a big difference, but it indeed does. The advantage, even this tiny, allows trains to slow down, elevators to stop, and enables people to protect themself in harsh environments, like factories or construction sites. The signal is broadcast to every phone, radio, news, and public announcement system to ensure that every person has access to crucial information about the coming disaster. This early warning method has proven itself by helping people avoid severe traumas by giving them time to react. 

Disaster Drills: A Vital Part of Earthquake Safety 

Photo credit: Canva

In Japan, authorities put a lot of attention on education and disaster drills as a part of earthquake preparedness for their citizens. You will see the integration of this proactive approach not only in kindergartens and schools but also in workplaces and communities. The government makes sure that everyone is prepared and knows what to do during and after seismic activity. According to the interview of Tokyo University professor Katada Toshitaka, who specialized in disasters, given to the Associated Press, no nation is better prepared for natural disasters than Japan. Along with periodic drills, preparedness campaigns are held to foster a culture of readiness so people will not be startled if any disaster happens. 

How Japan’s Earthquake Safety Measures Set a Global Standard

Japan has earthquake safety that can be a great model for all the world. As a result of hard work and significant investments into earthquake-resistant infrastructure, early warning systems, and frequent earthquake drills, Japan was able to become number one in seismic resilience. While no country is absolutely resistant to natural forces, the amount of effort delineated by the Japanese government and engineers has significantly reduced the risk and the impact of seismic activity.

Related articles: 

• Emergency Kits: Preparing for a Natural Disaster
• The Geography of Japan – KEY Facts and Figures You Need to Know
• What to Do if an Earthquake, Tsunami or Typhoon Strikes in Japan

What to Do if an Earthquake, Tsunami or Typhoon Strikes in Japan

Featured photo credit:  Canva