At the time of the construction of the building, safety measures for protection against earthquake are following.

1. The whole portion of the building should be constructed at one time to avoid settlement.
2. The whole building should be tied with RCC band at plinth level, lintel level and roof level.
3. Balcony and other cantilever structures should be avoided as far as possible. Where required they should be light and adequately framed and secured with main structure.
4. The opening in the brick wall should not be more than 45%.
5. If due to some reason it is more then 45%   then either wall thickness should be more or RCC column should be provided.
6. In case frame structure building and non load bearing walls, the %age of the opening may be more than 45%.

Note:
1. Normally RCC frame structure and steel framed buildings are able to withstand earthquake shocks effectively.
2. Multi storey buildings and frame structured buildings should be constructed according to the structural design.

For more on the topic/earthquake click the link given below.

http://www.gharexpert.com/category/1373/Earthquake-0.aspx?PL=2&CatID=1373&Category=Earthquake&Page_Id=1

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