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David Tamayo Outlines Two-Phase Evaluation Process for Buildings Affected by the 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake

The National Risk Management Unit has established a unified methodology to evaluate structures damaged by the August 10, 2026, earthquake, which recorded a magnitude of 7.4. David Tamayo, director of the National Risk Management Unit, explained that the process will consist of two phases: a rapid inspection and a detailed evaluation. The rapid inspection uses a three-color semaphore system to quickly determine if a building is safe to occupy, requires restrictions, or is at risk of collapse. Vital infrastructure, such as hospitals and educational institutions, will receive detailed evaluations from the start to ensure consistency across regions. The administration announced that these common technical criteria aim to avoid duplicities and inconsistencies in damage assessments. While the red sign indicates a building is at risk, it does not automatically mean demolition; rather, it signals the need for further analysis. These results will guide decisions regarding usage restrictions and the restoration of essential services as the recovery phase begins. The National Risk Management Unit will also implement a Unified Registry of Professional Evaluators to license the voluntary professionals participating in the inspections.

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