A multi-hazard risk assessment for school site selection in Alborz Province; consideration the presence of geopathic hazards

Abstract In the Middle East, because of existence of fault lines, arid landscapes, and seismic activity, the geopathic stress (GS) could theoretically be amplified by natural formations. So, the architecture, environmental health, and bioelectromagnetics are most considered the challenges in geopathic stress in the mentioned countries. The main goal of this research is to build a framework that is based on science aspects for multi-hazard risk assessment for built schools site in Alborz Province, in Iran. In this regard, it was used two vision as general assessments and as case study assessments, for present study. The methodology to find safe locations for schools in Alborz Province combines geospatial analysis, engineering geology principles, and quantitative decision-making techniquesFor this purpose, it has been selected 25 schools from in different geographical points of Alborz Province to assess the multi-hazard risk. The Alborz Province as a high active tectonic zone can be lead to significant geological hazards like earthquakes and potential GS from faults. The results showed that Karaj has higher hazard levels due to closer proximity to faults like Mosha and North Alborz, with distances under 10 km increasing seismic and geopathic risks. Also, the statistical reulsts showed that 32% of schools are in high hazard zones. As suggestion for future schools, it must be selected sites > 20 km from major faults. Also, promotion multi-hazard planning to address cascading risks like landslides in fault zones will be useful.