This document concerns human exposure to whole-body vibration and shock in buildings with respect to the comfort and annoyance of the occupants based on both measurements and simulations. It specifies a method for measurement and evaluation, comprising the determination of the measurement direction and measurement location. It defines the frequency weighting, Wm, which is applicable in the frequency range 1 Hz to 80 Hz where the posture of an occupant does not need to be defined, see Annex A.

NOTE 1        The frequency weightings given in ISO 2631-1 can be used if the posture of the occupant is defined.

Whilst it is often the case that a building will be available for experimental investigation, many of the concepts contained within this document would apply equally to a building in the design process or where it will not be possible to gain access to an existing building. In these cases, reliance will have to be placed on the prediction of the building response by some means.

This document does not provide guidance on the likelihood of structural damage, which is discussed in ISO 4866. Further, it is not applicable to the evaluation of effects on human health and safety.

Acceptable magnitudes of vibration are not stated in this document, but guidance is provided in Annex C in the form of exposure-response curves for the estimation of annoyance when vibration originates from various sources, including railway, construction activities and blasting.

NOTE 2        The exposure-response curves are based on the most recent evidence which suggests that human response to vibration in buildings is dependent on the magnitude, frequency, duration and temporal characteristics of the vibration[4]. In addition, it is known that other factors not directly related to the vibration characteristics have a significant influence on the annoyance response. These are identified in Annex B and include consideration of some parallel effects, subjective impressions and socio-demographic factors which need to be accounted for when collecting vibration data.

NOTE 3        Several national standards have been proposed to define methods for assessing exposure to vibration in buildings as well as reference values for judging the annoyance resulting from exposure. These standards generally present significant differences in terms of metrics and methods used to quantify exposure as well as on the guideline values to prevent adverse effects. Some standards define limit values that are based on experimental field data leading to exposure-response relationships such as those proposed in Annex C. Other standards base their limit values on estimations that take into account vibration perception thresholds and situational factors. Some standards also consider the magnitude of vibration that can present a risk of damage to the buildings, particularly when blasting is involved.