ASA (Advanced Seismic Assessment) is an advanced technical service developed by the Eucentre Foundation to address structural assessment requirements in post-earthquake contexts. Established in 2005 through an institutional collaboration with the Civil Protection Department, the ASA module is the culmination of extensive field experimentation, national and European pilot projects, operational exercises, and practical interventions during significant seismic events that have affected Italy over the past fifteen years.
The system consists of two main components: a central structure based in Pavia and a mobile unit that operates directly in affected areas. At the Eucentre headquarters, damage scenarios are developed, logistics are managed, and remote technical and scientific support is provided. Meanwhile, the mobile unit is designed to be fully autonomous and is equipped with advanced instrumentation, workstations, satellite connectivity and tools for carrying out surveys, inspections and experimental analyses. This allows for a direct and timely assessment of damaged structures.
The ASA’s objectives are twofold: to provide specialised support to ordinary assessment teams (Base Seismic Assessment, BSA) for strategic buildings and complex structures in particular, and to provide a reliable, documented technical framework for decision-making in emergencies. Analyses performed include field observations and numerical/experimental assessments, which can be shared in real time with experts from other centres of competence thanks to the connection between the mobile unit and headquarters.
The value of the ASA module was confirmed during the 2016 earthquake in central Italy, when Eucentre provided technical support to the Civil Protection Department, conducted reconnaissance activities with international research institutes and organised informative events for citizens and professionals over a period of around eight months. This experience highlighted the system’s potential while also underlining areas for improvement in both the technical and operational aspects and the logistical management of seismic emergencies.
The ASA module is part of the broader ecosystem of services and tools developed by Eucentre for seismic risk mitigation. It is integrated with other modules, such as DRHOUSE and STC, and supported by state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructures.
Eucentre is a non-profit private law foundation whose mission is to conduct research and provide training and services in earthquake and safety engineering
Eucentre promotes science, research and innovation for the benefit of the community, offering targeted methodologies and concrete solutions for prevention, safety and resilience. It collaborates with institutions and companies to disseminate competencies for the common good.
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Eucentre carries out research activities in earthquake engineering and risk reduction through laboratory testing and numerical analysis, aiming to improve the seismic performance of structures and soils and to develop innovative seismic retrofitting techniques.
The Foundation promotes diverse and high-quality training activities aimed at academic and professional contexts, with constantly updated and innovative programs and initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of the sector and society
Eucentre ensures communication aimed at informing institutions, professionals, and citizens about ongoing activities and projects, with the goal of disseminating useful and accessible content and knowledge. It contributes to promoting a shared and informed culture of prevention and resilience.