Client: Prescient
Completion Date: 2021
Services: Research and Development, Seismic Systems, Building Codes and Standards,

Summary:

J.R. Harris & Company (JRH) led the development of ICC-ES AC494, which formalizes the FEMA P-695 analysis framework for qualifying alternative seismic systems. Designed to move beyond traditional equivalence-based methods, AC494 was developed through discussions with ICC-ES, industry review, and public hearings. JRH helped ICC-ES integrate FEMA P-695 into this structured process, ensuring a clear path for evaluating innovative seismic-force-resisting systems while meeting building code performance standards. In 2020, the first seismic system was officially qualified using AC494, paving the way for more systems to follow.