Abstract
Non-structural elements of a building are not a part of the main load resisting system. Therefore, there are often neglected from the structural design point of view. Seismic design of buildings has been well developed and is being continually updated and improved. But nonstructural elements in buildings are rarely designed with the same care or under the same degree of scrutiny as buildings. As a result, buildings that remain structurally sound after a strong earthquake often are rendered unserviceable due to damage to their nonstructural elements, such as access floors, telecommunication equipment and others. This damage has caused interruption of operations and large economic losses in the past. This paper reviews the design philosophy and design provisions of several international seismic codes, and compare design lateral forces recommended in these codes.