antigempa

Antigempa is a term used primarily in Indonesian-language discourse to describe a set of practices, technologies, and policies aimed at reducing vulnerability to earthquakes. The word combines anti- with gempa (earthquake). In practice, antigempa encompasses seismic design standards, construction methods, retrofitting of existing structures, and the deployment of early warning and response systems that decrease damage and save lives.

Antigempa covers structural and non-structural measures. Structural measures include seismic-resistant design based on probabilistic and deterministic risk assessments, base isolation or energy-dissipation devices, reinforced concrete and steel frames, ductile detailing, and retrofit of aging buildings. Non-structural measures focus on securing non-structural elements such as air ducts and shelves, utilities, and ensuring safe evacuation routes.

Implementation involves building codes that promote anti-seismic design and retrofit programs that target high-risk building stock. Early warning systems and public education are often part of antigempa strategies, enabling automatic shutoffs and safe response protocols before strong ground shaking arrives.

When properly implemented, antigempa reduces collapse risk, injury, and economic losses. Challenges include cost, retrofitting legacy structures, ensuring maintenance, and equitable access to upgrades.

See also: Earthquake engineering, Seismic retrofitting, Base isolation, Structural damping, Early warning.

Note: The term is colloquial; in English-language contexts, terms such as anti-seismic or earthquake-resistant are more common.