The Department of Health Care Access and Information in California held a webinar on April 12, 2025, focusing on Seismic Performance Category (SPC) compliance, specifically SPC 4d. The meeting aimed to clarify expectations and requirements for hospitals regarding seismic safety standards.

The discussion began with an overview of SPC 4d, which aims to ensure that while some minor damage may occur during seismic events, hospital operations should remain unaffected. Participants were advised that engineers would provide detailed explanations of what to expect in terms of structural integrity, including potential wall cracks.

A significant point raised was the site-specific nature of seismic hazards. The standards for SPC compliance are locked to the ASC 41-13 version, which aims to prevent confusion and inefficiencies caused by frequent updates to codes. This decision was made to maintain consistency in design and construction over time, as changing standards could hinder progress.

The webinar also addressed the deadlines associated with SPC 4d compliance. Unlike other categories, SPC 4d does not have intermediate deadlines, with the final compliance date set for February 1930. This approach was explained as a means to avoid conflicts between different planning timelines, particularly with the New Performance Category (NPC) requirements. By aligning the deadlines, the department aims to streamline the construction process and reduce costs.

In conclusion, the meeting emphasized the importance of understanding the SPC 4d requirements and the rationale behind the established timelines. Participants were encouraged to consider the implications of these standards in their planning and construction efforts to ensure compliance and operational readiness in the event of seismic activity.