BS 6472-1:2008

This standard BS 6472-1:2008 Guide to evaluation of human exposure to vibration in buildings is classified in these ICS categories:

• 91.120.25 Seismic and vibration protection
• 17.160 Vibrations, shock and vibration measurements
• 13.160 Vibration and shock with respect to human beings

This part of BS 6472 provides guidance on predicting human response to vibration in buildings over the frequency range 0.5 Hz to 80 Hz. Frequency weighting curves for human beings exposed to whole-body vibration are included, together with advice on measurement methods to be employed. Methods of assessing continuous, intermittent and impulsive vibration are presented.

This part of BS 6472 describes how to determine the vibration dose value, VDV, from frequency-weighted vibration measurements. The vibration dose value is used to estimate the probability of adverse comment which might be expected from human beings experiencing vibration in buildings. Consideration is given to the time of day and use made of occupied space in buildings, whether residential, office or workshop.

NOTE 1 In critical work areas, where vibration criteria more stringent than those for human perception are appropriate, this British Standard does not apply.

NOTE 2 Annex A outlines the way in which methods, results and assessments are to be reported, since great care is needed if satisfactory, repeatable conclusions are to be obtained. Annex B provides worked examples of how measurements and predictions might be interpreted in terms of human reaction. Annex C provides examples of the derivation of values appropriate to this British Standard from historic data.

This British Standard does not give guidance on the probability of equipment malfunction, structural damage or injury to occupants in buildings subject to vibration. Neither is guidance given on legal liability or methods of vibration limitation, although beneficial means to the latter are often implied.