What does CBC Chapter 16, section 1613 specify regarding building safety?

The correct choice pertains to the design requirements for buildings to withstand seismic forces, which are a significant concern in California due to its earthquake-prone environment. Chapter 16 of the California Building Code (CBC) specifically addresses the design for earthquake ground motions. This includes guidelines that ensure buildings are appropriately designed and constructed to survive the forces generated by earthquakes, thereby minimizing risk to human life and property.

The CBC requires structural engineers to take into account factors such as the seismic design category of the building, site conditions, the importance of the structure, and the potential ground motion levels based on historical data and geological assessments. This chapter serves as a critical reference for ensuring that buildings not only comply with safety regulations but also are resilient against seismic events, which is especially vital in California’s geographical context.

The other options, while related to building safety and design, focus on different aspects of structural integrity. Flood resistance, structural load capacity, and wind resistance design are also important but do not fall under the specific seismic design requirements outlined in CBC Chapter 16, section 1613. Therefore, the emphasis on earthquake ground motion design is essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of buildings in seismic zones.