Accredited HAV & WBV Vibration Measurements
Mechanical vibration at workplaces falls into two categories with separate NDN limit values and measurement methods — hand-arm (HAV) for operators of hand-held tools, and whole-body (WBV) for drivers and operators of vehicles. OIKOS laboratory performs both measurement types under PCA accreditation No. AB 934 (PN-EN ISO/IEC 17025). Reports are accepted by the National Labour Inspectorate (PIP) for legally regulated areas.
Why OIKOS for Vibration Measurements
Three reasons our HAV and WBV measurements stand out — backed by independently verified competence:
- HAV and WBV measurements in one visit — saving time without compromising scope
- AB 934-accredited results with a clear NDN compliance assessment
- We run PT-DR — the proficiency testing programme for vibration measurements
Two Vibration Categories — Two Distinct Assessments
Hand-Arm Vibration (HAV) affects operators of hand-held tools: grinders, drills, pneumatic hammers, chainsaws, riveters. The assessment parameter is daily vibration exposure A(8) in m/s².
Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) affects drivers and operators of vehicles: forklifts, construction machinery, off-road vehicles, agricultural tractors. OIKOS laboratory performs both measurement types under AB 934 accreditation. Results are compared against the Exposure Action Values (EAV) and Exposure Limit Values (ELV) defined in the Minister of Family and Social Policy regulation. The report includes a clear compliance assessment and preventive recommendations.
OIKOS is one of the few laboratories in the region organising the PT-DR (vibration measurements) proficiency testing programme under PT 010 accreditation. Independent competence verification through inter-laboratory comparisons guarantees the reliability of your results.
Methods & Instruments
Methods
Measurement of hand-arm vibration (HAV) and whole-body vibration (WBV) per PN-EN ISO 5349 and PN-EN ISO 2631.
Instruments
Vibration meters with triaxial accelerometers, hand and seat adapters, vibration calibrators.
Reference documents
PN-EN ISO 5349-1:2004; PN-EN ISO 5349-2:2004; PN-EN ISO 2631-1:1999; Polish MAL regulation for vibration.
FAQ
Vibration Measurement Questions
What is the difference between HAV and WBV and why does it matter?
HAV refers to vibration transmitted through the hands (hand tools), WBV through the whole body (vehicles, seated machinery). They have different NDN limit values, different measurement methods and different health consequences (HAV: white finger, vibration white finger disease; WBV: lower back pain). The law requires separate assessment for each.
Which industries most commonly exceed vibration NDN limits?
For HAV: construction (demolition hammers, grinders), metalworking, forestry (chainsaws), manufacturing. For WBV: transport, logistics (forklifts), construction (excavators, rollers), agriculture (tractors).
How often must vibration measurements be conducted?
Analogous to noise: at least every 2 years when exposure is between 0.2–1.0 of the limit value; at least annually when the limit is exceeded. First measurements within 30 days of starting a workstation or changing conditions.