Chapter IV: Risk assessment

The employer shall assess and, if necessary, measure the levels of mechanical vibration to which workers are exposed. The purpose of this assessment and measurement is to determine the physical parameters defined in Article R. 4441-2 and to assess whether, in a given situation, the exposure values set out in Chapter III are exceeded.

Assessment of mechanical vibration levels and, if necessary, measurement are planned and carried out by competent persons at appropriate intervals with the assistance, where appropriate, of the occupational health service.

The results of the assessment of mechanical vibration levels or measurements are kept in a form which allows them to be consulted for a period of ten years.

The results of the assessment of the levels of mechanical vibration or of the measurement are made available to the members of the social and economic committee and to the company doctor. They are also made available, at their request, to the Labour Inspectorate, to agents of the prevention departments of social security organisations and to agents of the health, safety and working conditions organisations mentioned in article L. 4643-1.

When carrying out the risk assessment, the employer shall take into account: 1° The level, type and duration of exposure, including exposure to intermittent vibrations or repeated shocks; 2° The exposure limit values or the exposure values triggering preventive action laid down in Article R. 4443-2; 3° Any impact on the health and safety of workers who are particularly sensitive to this risk, in particular pregnant women and young workers…

Where the results of the risk assessment reveal risks to the health or safety of workers due to mechanical vibration, the employer shall implement the measures provided for in Chapters II, III and VII and, subject to the prerogatives of the occupational physician, in Chapter VI.

An order by the ministers for labour and agriculture specifies the conditions for assessing and measuring mechanical vibration levels.