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Abstract In this paper, a damage mechanics based failure criterion for seismic resistant structures is presented. The utilised innovative damage model serves to predict ductile material failure in terms of crack initiation and is suitable for cyclic high strain loading scenarios with all kind of stress states e.g. normal, shear or combined. An extensive testing program served to validate the new approach by conducting detailed 3D numerical simulations of experimental tests using solid elements. Reference moment resisting frame buildings have been designed and analysed dynamically to derive deformation time histories of the dissipative elements in the structure. The most critical elements of the reference structures have been identified by a fatigue analysis based on numerically established φ-N-curves. Finally, exemplary upper shelf toughness requirements of the most crucial structural parts have been determined depending on behaviour factor and seismic intensity. These toughness requirements refer to common C harpy impact toughness values.