Whole-Body Vibration Meters

Whole-body vibration is defined by the HSE as a shock or a jolt that affects part of the body, which is usually transmitted through the seat or feet. This can compress the spine and cause debilitating back and muscle pain to the employee.

Whole-body vibration can be debilitating for the sufferer, especially if they are already susceptible to back or muscle pain.

The best way to measure an employee’s exposure to whole-body vibration is to use a seat pad accelerometer. Similar to measuring HAVS, this will measure the vibration levels using the X, Y and Z axis. The most important one to look out for is the Z axis, as this is the up and down motion which can have the most effect to the employee’s spinal compression.