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Vibration measurement in construction DIN 4150 or BS 7385

Monitoring of vibration immissions in buildings

VMany construction activities, in particular blasting, pile driving, soil compaction, track cutting, demolition or dismantling, are sources of vibrations (vibration emission) and usually affect neighbouring buildings and structures via the ground (vibration transmission) (vibration immission). These immissions can cause discomfort or insecurity among residents, and stronger vibrations can even cause damage to the buildings themselves.

DIN 4150 "Vibration in construction" and
British Standard BS 7385: Part 2: "Evaluation and measurement for vibration in buildings"

Part 3 of the DIN 4150 standard "Vibrations in construction - Effects on structures" specifies which vibration effects are acceptable for structures, such as those that can occur during compaction work with vibrating compaction rollers or vibratory plates in road construction, during sheet piling by driving or vibrating in sheet piles or during demolition work with hydraulic hammers or other demolition equipment.

Vibration monitoring at suitable measuring points makes it possible to check for specified reference values to prevent nuisance and damage or to preserve evidence.

Vibration measurements in accordance with Part 2 of the DIN 4150 standard "Vibrations in buildings - Effects on people in buildings" make it possible to quickly and easily determine the degree of annoyance when vibrations caused by traffic or industrial machinery, for example, lead to complaints from residents.

Creation of vibration forecasts

In many cases, it is essential to make vibration forecasts to determine the potential impact of construction activities on existing structures. Especially when direct access to the locations where the vibrations occur is not possible or economically viable. By carrying out a detailed analysis of the vibration propagation, measures can be taken to minimise the negative effects before construction work begins. This is particularly important when planning construction work in order to avoid damage to neighbouring buildings or infrastructure. By taking suitable precautions during construction projects, potential vibration effects can be recognised at an early stage and appropriate protective measures implemented.

Vibrations can not only be perceived directly, but can also generate secondary airborne sound via elastic bodies (e.g. floors, walls), which is perceived as disturbing. Regional and application-specific standards and guidelines define reference values and criteria that are intended to ensure complaint-free and damage-free construction activities.

The established and proven measurement technology from SEMEX-EngCon enables precise measurement in all applications, even remotely, intuitively operable technology and highly automated evaluation in accordance with applicable standards.

Good to know

Vibration emission
Vibration emissions are shocks, oscillations or vibrations caused by various sources. Sources of vibrations are often construction or demolition work and blasting. They can also be induced by road and rail traffic as well as industrial plants. Natural sources of vibration can be caused by seismic or geothermal events.
Vibration transmission
Vibration transmission is the transmission of vibration emission through the ground as well as through secondary airborne sound.
Vibration immission
Vibration immissions are harmful environmental impacts within the meaning of Section 3 (1) BImSchG if their nature, extent or duration is likely to cause danger, considerable disadvantages or considerable nuisance to the general public or the neighbourhood.
(Source: Bund/Länder-Arbeitsgemeinschaft Immissionsschutz (LAI), Hinweise zur Messung, Beurteilung und Verminderung von Erschütterungsimmissionen)