PurposeThe paper is an attempt to evaluate the efficiency of passive control techniques such as base isolation system (e.g. Lead/Rubber Bearing) and fluid viscous dampers subjected to earthquake ground motions and underground blast-induced vibrations. Two moment-resisting steel frame buildings are analyzed to evaluate the structural responses under dynamic excitations. The effect of vertical irregularity on the performance of passive control techniques in mitigating the responses of the building is also studied.MethodsNon-linear dynamic analysis has been conducted on regular and irregular steel structures. The study investigates the effect of isolation period on the structural responses. The isolators are designed based on the design procedures developed by various researchers. The technical specifications of fluid viscous dampers have been selected from M/s Taylor Devices, USA.ResultsThe structural responses and energy dissipated by these control techniques is evaluated and a comparative study is also carried out amongst control techniques under blast and seismic excitations.ConclusionsBoth the selected passive control techniques have proved to be very effective in reducing the structural responses and forces induced in the building owing to ground-induced vibration.