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The impact of clarity and legibility on reducing earthquake-related Injuries in educational spaces in Shiraz
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Sanaz Kalhor *   , Alireza Nouriyan , Sara Zohari |
| Department of Architecture, ET.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. , sanaz.kalhor@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (1113 Views) |
Objective: To identify the components affecting legibility and readability in educational spaces, which can facilitate movement and wayfinding in schools and, under crisis conditions such as earthquakes, lead to faster evacuation and reduced casualties.
Method: This study employs a mixed-methods approach, including both qualitative and quantitative sections. The first part is analytical–descriptive, consisting of a literature review and case studies. In the literature review, the concept of legibility and its influencing components are discussed. Then, ten girls’ high schools in Shiraz, in which design elements enhancing spatial legibility have been considered, were selected to examine their spatial organization and analyze the alignment or misalignment of their structures with legibility criteria. Subsequently, a field study was conducted to assess the importance of legibility components and their impact on reducing crisis-related damages. A total of 450 questionnaires were distributed among school staff, teachers, and students in Shiraz. Finally, data were analyzed using SPSS, leading to the extraction of strategies to improve school spatial legibility with the aim of reducing casualties during earthquakes.
Results: Factors such as the length and number of paths, degree of enclosure and differentiation of zones, presence of strong nodes, flexibility and prominence of edges, and the quantity and distinctiveness of landmarks—which are components of legibility—have a significant effect on facilitating wayfinding and reducing damages during earthquakes. Notably, zones and exit routes with the highest impact were identified.
Conclusions: The results indicate a strong relationship between the components affecting the legibility of educational spaces—which enhance wayfinding during crises—and the reduction of earthquake-related injuries. Improving the legibility of pathways and accesses enhances proper performance in emergency evacuation. In other words, for the rapid and correct evacuation of individuals, clear and legible routes, as well as guidance and assistance during crises, are essential.
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| Keywords: Clarity, Legibility, Earthquake, Educational Space, School, Shiraz. |
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Full-Text [PDF 1459 kb]
(46 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
معماری
Received: 2024/03/5 | Accepted: 2025/07/21 | Published: 2025/12/21
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