ISO 2631-2:2003 concerns human exposure to whole-body vibration and shock in buildings with respect to the comfort and annoyance of the occupants. It specifies a method for measurement and evaluation, comprising the determination of the measurement direction and measurement location. It defines the frequency weighting W_m which is applicable in the frequency range 1 Hz to 80 Hz where the posture of an occupant does not need to be defined.

Whilst it is often the case that a building will be available for experimental investigation, many of the concepts contained within ISO 2631-2 would apply equally to a building in the design process or where it will not be possible to gain access to an existing building. In these cases, reliance will have to be placed on the prediction of the building response by some means.

ISO 2631-2 does not provide guidance on the likelihood of structural damage, which is discussed in ISO 4866. Further, it is not applicable to the evaluation of effects on human health and safety.

Acceptable magnitudes of vibration are not stated in ISO 2631-2.

The mathematical definition of the frequency weighting W_m is given in Annex A. Guidelines for collecting data concerning complaints about building vibration are given in Annex B.