This is a comprehensive guide to all types of natural and man made disasters and their effect on buildings. It gives overall guidance and a basic technical understanding of prevention, mitigation and management of disaster, and outlines a checklist of preventive design elements for each situation. Every category is illustrated with a case study which pin points the essential information that is crucial to architects and engineers in designing buildings with disaster prevention in mind. Providing a clear understanding of the nature of events and problems, this book enables readers to respond with knowledge to the unique demands placed on their designs. A special emphasis is also placed on re-building as an opportunity to start again. For the specialists this is a process of constant learning and improving techniques in the light of events past. Preface by Sir Bernard Feilden CBE, Director, Emeritus ICCROM and architectural conservation consultant Foreward by Salvano Briceno, Director of the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction Task Force.