Structural elements: those essential elements that determine the overall safety of the system, such as beams, columns, slabs, load-bearing walls, braces or foundations.

Non-structural elements: all other elements that enable the facility to operate. They include elements such as water heaters or storage tanks, mechanical equipment, shelving and cabinets and lifelines. In the case of hospitals, 80 per cent or more of the total cost of the facility can be the price of non-structural components.

Functional elements: for safety include accessibility, policies, staff preparedness, and operational and security systems.