This timely volume addresses the critical issue of safe design of mechanical structures, systems and components belonging to hazardous facilities, in order to withstand the effects of extreme loads. These extreme loads may be either man-made, such as design-basis accidents, aircraft crashes or malevolent vehicle intrusions, or due to natural disasters, such as earthquakes or tornadoes.

Hazardous facilities include the nuclear, petrochemical and biomedical industries. Detailed information on government regulations and industry standards is provided. The structures, distribution systems, and components addressed by this guide include those addressed by ASME and related standards, such as API, IBC, ASCE, and others.