Prevention of major risks and natural hazards – Seismic risk

Seismic risk affects many regions of the world, but varies from one region to another. In France, the seismic hazard is high in the West Indies, while it is very low to medium in the rest of the country. It is estimated that a major earthquake in the French West Indies could cause the death of several thousand people, while an earthquake such as the one in Provence in 1909 could cause hundreds of casualties, as well as billions of euros in economic losses.

Article R. 112-1 of the French Construction and Housing Code stipulates that all construction projects in seismic zones and overseas territories must comply with the provisions of Decree no. 91-461 of May 14, 1991, as amended.

According to the French Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy: "Risk is defined as the conjunction of a hazard with vulnerable stakes (people, property, activities). Seismic risk can be estimated in terms of consequences, particularly on human life, the economy and the environment".