Latin American and Caribbean Consortium of Engineering Institutions

Conference Track:  Manmade & Natural Hazards

Keywords:         Disasters; homeless, emergency shelter; recyclable

Contact Title::    Prof.

Contact First Name: Ronald A.

Contact Last Name:  Baier

University:       Florida International University (FIU)

Web:              www.fiu.edu

Position:         Visiting Professor

Country:          USA

Email:            baierr@fiu.edu

Fax:              (305) 348-6255

Title:

RE-CYCLABLE EMERGENCY SHELTERS FOR SHORT-TERM POST DISASTER USE

Abstract

Each year thousands of Americans are left homeless by natural disasters. In addition, thousands more are permanently homeless living on our cities streets and parks. When homelessness occurs, emergency agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross are often tasked with providing emergency shelter for these unfortunate individuals. Unfortunately, the current system of supplying shelter is both complex and costly. Generally, emergency shelter consists of either large tents supplied by the military or through the use of mobile homes. Both systems are expensive and logistically difficult. This project proposes to develop and test a new system of providing emergency shelter. At the core of this system will be the development of a recyclable shelter unit composed of a recyclable corrugated board material. These shelter units will be designed for short-term use, usually up to three months, and can then be totally recycled. The units will be both lightweight and inexpensive and will consist of a set of corrugated board panels, which can be carried and assembled by no more than two persons. Setup and connections will be designed to be easily completed by unskilled individuals using simple tools. After an emergency, the units can be trucked or air lifted into disaster struck areas to provide almost immediate shelter. In winter climates, these shelters can again be delivered by truck directly to the homeless to provide shelter from the dangerously harsh temperatures. After the initial need the shelter can be easily de-constructed and the materials re-cycled. In addition to design considerations, this project will consider the economics of both the manufacturing and distribution of the shelters.

Keywords:

Natural disasters; homeless; emergency shelter; recyclable; lightweight; inexpensive.

Mailing Address: 

Florida International University

Department of Construction Management

College of Engineering

Engineering Center, EC 2955

10555 West Flagler Street

Miami, FL 33174 

Phone: (305) 348-3172

Cell: (954) 683-4305

Authors: 

Gene Farmer, ARA/farmerg@fiu.edu/FIU

Ronald A. Baier, P.E./baierr@fiu.edu/FIU/(P)