Summarizing building damage in all previous large earthquakes is an important approach to promote the development of structural seismic design. We conducted a statistical analysis of the earthquake damage to various buildings in Mianyang city

Sichuan province

P. R. China. This analysis was based on the emergency assessment and investigation of building damage in Mianyang city caused by the large earthquake that occurred on May 12

2008 in Wenchuan. We also summarize the damage characteristics of different buildings and the lessons learned. We present the following findings and suggestions for structural seismic design:(1)Buildings in Mianyang designed according to current seismic code withstood the rare earthquake.(2)Different structural systems have obviously varied seismic behaviors. (3)Old buildings always have been the weak links in earthquakes

and should be evaluated and strengthened selectively after an earthquake.(4)Studies of anticracking measures for masonry walls should be conducted. (5)Effective measures should be taken to reduce earthquake damage to nonstructural components

for example

infill walls in frames.(6)Seismic design methods and construction measures for stairs should be studied.