Nonthaburi: Thai technicians have volunteered to inspect the OBEC school buildings following an earthquake that caused structural damage.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai Engineers Foundation, in collaboration with the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC), has dispatched a team of over 200 engineers and volunteer technicians. This initiative aims to evaluate the structural integrity of more than 60 school buildings across six provinces, which were affected by the earthquake that originated in Myanmar. The inspection is scheduled to take place on April 4-5, 2025.
Mr. Thepparat Theppitak, EGAT Governor and Chairman of the Thai Engineers Volunteer Foundation, elaborated on the necessity of this mission, noting that the earthquake had impacted many OBEC schools. With students preparing for important selection examinations for Mathayom 1 and Mathayom 4, any delays could significantly disrupt students and their families. The inspection will cover provinces including Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, and Nakhon Pathom.
Damage assessment is categorized into three levels: Level 1 indicates no or slight damage, Level 2 signifies moderate damage with partial usability, and Level 3 reflects severe damage with potential for collapse. The inspection team will employ comprehensive methods, using visual inspection tools and checklists to examine various structural components such as columns, beams, walls, and electrical systems.
Several schools in Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and other provinces have been identified for immediate inspection, including Yothinburana School and Suankularb Wittayalai School in Bangkok, Bodindecha (Sing Singhaseni) School in Nonthaburi, and several others.
In preparation for these inspections, EGAT and the Thai Engineers Volunteer Foundation have previously conducted training sessions to ensure that engineers and technicians are well-equipped to evaluate building conditions accurately. Furthermore, the Yaprom Foundation is planning to extend these efforts to hospitals and public places that have sought assistance.
