How Semiconductor Companies Prepared for Earthquakes: Lessons from Taiwan's 1999 Quake

💡Taiwan's semiconductor companies implemented measures after the 1999 earthquake to protect their facilities and minimize financial losses.

🏢Double-shell structures and seismic isolation systems were introduced to improve the structural resilience of fabs.

🔒Stocker reinforcement and installation of stoppers and dampers prevented wafer damage during earthquakes.

⏰Early warning systems provided crucial seconds of notice to prepare for potential earthquake impacts.

🌍Taiwan's semiconductor industry serves as a testament to the effectiveness of earthquake preparedness measures.

What caused the financial losses for Taiwan's semiconductor companies after the 1999 earthquake?

—The majority of the financial losses were due to interruptions in power supply to the fabs, leading to equipment and wafers being damaged.

What measures were implemented by semiconductor companies to mitigate earthquake damage?

—Semiconductor companies introduced double-shell structures, seismic isolation systems, stocker reinforcement, and early warning systems to protect their facilities and equipment.

How did the recent 2024 earthquake test Taiwan's semiconductor companies' preparedness?

—The recent earthquake temporarily halted production but showed that the implemented measures effectively protected the fabs, with minimal financial impact.

What is the significance of Taiwan's semiconductor industry in earthquake preparedness?

—Taiwan's semiconductor industry serves as an example of proactive earthquake preparedness, ensuring the safety of facilities and minimizing potential disruptions.

Are earthquakes a significant risk for semiconductor manufacturing?

—Earthquakes pose a natural risk to semiconductor manufacturing, but with proper engineering, best practices, and training, their impact can be mitigated.

00:00Taiwan's semiconductor companies experienced significant damage during the 1999 earthquake, leading to financial losses.

15:15Semiconductor companies' proactive approach to earthquake preparedness has ensured the safety of their facilities and minimized potential disruptions.