Arrange a demonstration Whole-body vibration explained
They are related, but they are not interchangeable. VIMMS retains both so an operator can understand individual shocks and the exposure accumulating throughout the shift.
A moment in the operation
The working day accumulatingImpact monitoring
Impact monitoring answers questions about a particular shock: how large it was, when and where it occurred, and how many similar events took place.
This can be valuable for investigating incidents, comparing driving or identifying loads on the vessel and its equipment. But a low impact count does not demonstrate low whole-body vibration exposure.
Peak accelerationImpact count and frequencyTime and position of eventsEvent investigationWhole-body vibration
Whole-body vibration assessment considers the continuous, frequency-weighted vibration reaching the occupant. The working period matters: moderate vibration sustained over hours may be significant even when no dramatic impact is recorded.
VIMMS reports recognised ISO 2631-1 metrics—including weighted RMS, vibration dose value and daily exposure A(8)—to describe that different form of risk. UK maritime guidance gives an A(8) exposure action value of 0.5 m/s² and exposure limit value of 1.15 m/s² for whole-body vibration.
Frequency-weighted RMSVibration dose value (VDV)Daily exposure A(8)Time and measurement coverageRisk management
A useful assessment needs reliable measurement, sufficient coverage and operational context. Results can then support decisions about routes, speed, shift planning, seating, training and vessel design.
VIMMS supports this process; it does not replace a competent risk assessment or define a vessel as safe or unsafe.
Compare exposure with action valuesInvestigate the cause, not only the resultRecord the control measures takenReview whether those measures workedDiscuss your operation