Low-frequency Vibration

Low-frequency vibration, in the range of 1 to 80 Hz, can interfere with the ability of workers to perform tasks. The organs of the human body, such as the stomach and heart, are supported inside the body captivity on a suspensions system. The resonance frequencies of these suspension systems are in this frequency range. Whenever a system is excited at its resonance frequency, it responds vigorously. As a result it is important to restrict the vibration for different types of tasks.

The following Table presents the categories and the descriptions for each category of activity according to the NORSOK STANDARD S-002, Rev. 4, August 2004. These criteria are illustrated in Figure 1.

Table 1. Vibration Criteria from NORSOK Standard S-002, Rev. 4

CategoryDescription
1Central control rooms and living quarters areas
2Workshops, laboratories, control rooms, offices and equipment rooms outside living quarters
3Process, utilities, and drilling areas
4At equipment
5Maximum limit (normally unmanned areas)

Figure 1. NORSOK Vibration Criteria

Clients and Projects

Mustang Engineering, BP Valhall
Determined vibration levels due to machinery on an offshore platform using a SEAM model. Compared these vibration levels to NORSOK criteria