A majority of the deaths were caused by falling debris and collapsing buildings. This was due to structures not being reinforced properly by means of the building regulations required. Created using the material, adobe, houses and buildings were often left unnoticed while they were constructed. As steel frames were not reinforced into the structure.
For these buildings to be built in such a possible place of destruction, regular checks should ensure that buildings have met the needed requirements. Or have owners inquire for an inspection or the needed steel reinforcements. So as to prevent lesser damage if an earthquake should occur again.
2. Overall Design Capability
Many of the buildings that had fallen in the area were designed rather irregularly, alongside that of their elevation layouts. These designs allowed weak points to pop up during the quake, as some were not supported by the structure. Causing it to collapse.
As opposed to the usual 'weak column, strong beam' set up inside the building, a 'strong column, weak beam' inside of buildings have allowed stronger structure uphold. And is able to be added into small, narrower spaces that could potentially not be supported.
Finally, pre-cast floor slabs in apartment buildings, buildings etc. should be reinforced by cast-at-site slabs. The pre-cast slabs offer a more efficient way in both money and time, even in a more 'weakened' state. Reinforcing it with cast-at-site slabs give it an overall sturdiness, as well as preventing unnecessary collapsing and deaths.
3. Clearance of Major Roads/Paths
As stated beforehand, many potential relief items were unable to be brought over to Sichuan from Beichuan due to a landslide that blocked off the path. The clearance took quite a while, and survivors were subjected to the Winters of 2008-2009 in fabricated homes.
Even so, they were without normal necessities to help get through the cold. Transfers of quilts, blankets and clean water were struggling to pass through and donated bottled water was to be found and shipped through. These could have be accessed if obstructions were destroyed more quickly. Or finding an alternate route to those that were in need.