This book bridges the gap between theory and practice, showing how a detailed definition of the shear-wave velocity (V_S) profile can be efficiently obtained using limited field equipment and following simple acquisition procedures.

It demonstrates how surface waves (used to define the V_S profile) and vibration data (used to describe the dynamic behaviour of a building) can be recorded using the same equipment, and also highlights common problems, ambiguities and pitfalls that can occur when adopting popular methodologies, which are often based on a series of simplistic assumptions.

Today, most national and international building codes take into account a series of parameters aimed at defining the local seismic hazard. Sites are characterised based on the local V_S profile, and the dynamic behaviour of existing buildings is defined through the analysis of their eigenmodes. The book includes a series of case studies to help readers gain a deeper understanding of seismic and vibration data and the meaning (pros and cons) of a series of techniques often referred to as MASW, ESAC, SPAC, ReMi, HVSR, MAAM and HS. It also provides access to some of the datasets so that readers can gain a deeper and more concrete understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects.