Assessment of Earthquake Risk of Primary Schools in Slovenia

Slovenia is one of the most earthquake-prone countries in Europe. Estimates show that between 6% and 14% of the Slovenian building stock is at ​​high seismic risk, especially buildings that were built in periods when there were no regulations for seismic-resistant construction or the requirements were significantly lower than today. Elementary school buildings discussed in the article are no exception. Due to their significant role for the society, the requirement for their seismic resistance is of utmost importance. Based on the analysis of basic data from the fund of 766 elementary school buildings in Slovenia, the article determines the number of buildings that were built during the period of particular regulations for seismic-resistant construction, the number of floors and the material for the supporting structure. Based on these data it is possible to draw conclusions about seismic resistance of buildings. For buildings that were built after 1999 and according to Eurocode 8, and most of the buildings that were built after 1981, we can conclude that they are earthquake resistant. A large part of the buildings that are still in use today were built in past historical periods and corresponded to the building regulations in force at that time. We can conclude that from the point of view of today’s requirements, these buildings are probably less seismically resistant or even dangerous and would in the coming years need seismic rehabilitation, as is planned by the Resolution on strengthening seismic resistance until 2050. However, for an accurate assessment of seismic resistance, it is necessary to examine each building individually due to its specific spatial or structural design.