WBV 2.3.3

The Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) application measures vibration transmitted to the human body when supported by a vibrating surface, primarily during seated exposure in vehicles. Chronic exposure to high levels of whole-body vibration has been strongly linked to back pain and other health issues, underscoring the importance of monitoring such exposures.

This application utilizes the accelerometer embedded within an iPod or iPhone to generate estimates of vibration amplitude in accordance with the ISO 2631.1 standard. It presents frequency-weighted root mean square (r.m.s) and Vibration Dose Value (VDV) parameters graphically, with reference to health guidance caution zones for various exposure durations. Users can access summarized data and acceleration time series through email or direct download for further analysis.

Designed primarily for occupational safety and health professionals, WBV offers a straightforward screening and monitoring tool for assessing seated operators of various vehicles, machinery, or equipment. The process involves inputting trial information, initiating sampling through a tap, and positioning the device on the operator’s seat during normal operation. Upon completion, a final tap ends sampling and displays the results, which can then be viewed or emailed.

Developed by experts at Byte Works under the guidance of Professor Robin Burgess-Limerick from The University of Queensland’s Minerals Industry Safety and Health Centre, this project received funding from the NSW Coal Services Health and Safety Trust.

The application supports GPS functionality, which can be enabled either in the foreground or automatically during background processing. GPS data is included in the exported raw data files. However, continuous GPS usage can significantly impact battery life. Users can toggle GPS on or off via the WBV preferences accessible through the device’s Settings app.