Coupling school risk reduction strategies with LAMESA (Life-Saving Automated “Mesa” to Endure Seismic Activity) for kindergarten
This study linked school risk reduction and disaster preparedness strategies using a designed automated study desk for kindergartens. This desk, LAMESA (Life-saving Automated “Mesa” to Endure Seismic Activity), aimed to provide the education system with a resilient study desk for kindergartens. Design and development research used lightweight but highly strong and elastic materials to build the automated desk, conforming to kindergarten standards. The system and program designs ensured good peak ground acceleration (PGA) and a fix response time (4 sec.) to effectively and efficiently facilitate “duck (drop), cover, and hold” actions of kindergartners to shield them from debris in the eventuality of a strong seismic activity.
Chosen experts (engineers, scientists, and programmers) and stakeholders (kindergarten teachers, the laboratory school principal, parents, and district supervisor) evaluated the automated desk as excellent in features, design, and visuals. They also said it was exceptional as a warning system when earthquakes occur, as safety infrastructure for students, and as a learning tool. For holistic packaging, the desk may undergo strength tests, and it is also recommended that practitioners include added materials and training kits.