Overview
ISO 5805:1997 - Mechanical vibration and shock - Human exposure - Vocabulary is an international standard that defines the specialized terminology used when evaluating human exposure to mechanical vibration and shock. Published as the second edition in 1997 by ISO/TC 108/SC 4, this document provides standard definitions related to human biodynamics, directional vibration, exposure criteria, and related assessment concepts. ISO 5805:1997 supplements ISO 2041 (Vibration and shock - Vocabulary) and focuses on terms used in standards, testing, research and regulation concerning human response to vibration and shock.
Key topics
- General terms relevant to human exposure (e.g., ride vibration, footfall, indirect vibration).
- Directional vibration [shock] definitions (translational and rotational directions; anatomical reference axes).
- Biodynamics vocabulary (self-generated vibration, limb vibrator, segmental vibration).
- Human response and assessment terms (vibration rating, vibration limits and criteria, vibratory communication).
- Notes on usage such as preference for primary standard terms, interpretation of “shock” in a mechanical (not medical) sense, and inclusive use of “man” for both sexes.
- Structure and reference material including normative reference to ISO 2041, bibliography and alphabetical index.
Practical applications
ISO 5805:1997 is used to:
- Ensure consistent terminology across standards, technical reports and scientific literature addressing human vibration and shock exposure.
- Support development of exposure assessment methods, test protocols and dose–response studies by providing unambiguous definitions.
- Improve communication in ergonomics, occupational health, vehicle and machine design, and human factors engineering where vibration and shock affect people.
- Aid regulators, standards committees and manufacturers in drafting specifications, guidance and labelling related to vibration exposure.
Who would use this standard
- Standards developers and technical committees (ISO/TC 108 and equivalents)
- Acoustics, vibration and biomechanical researchers
- Occupational health and safety professionals
- Ergonomists and human factors engineers
- Designers and manufacturers of vehicles, machinery and vibratory devices
- Test labs and certification bodies
Related standards
- ISO 2041:1990 - Vibration and shock - Vocabulary (normative reference and complementary resource)
ISO 5805:1997 improves clarity and interoperability in vibration‑and‑shock literature and practice by standardizing the vocabulary used for human exposure and biodynamics.
