ISO 13091-1:2001/Amd 2:2021

Overview

ISO 13091-1:2001/Amd 2:2021 is an amendment to the international standard titled "Mechanical vibration - Vibrotactile perception thresholds for the assessment of nerve dysfunction - Part 1: Methods of measurement at the fingertips." Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this document focuses on standardized methods to measure vibrotactile perception thresholds (VPT) at the fingertips. These thresholds are critical indicators used in the evaluation of nerve dysfunction, especially related to mechanical vibration exposure and neurological disorders.

This 2021 amendment revises and supplements the original 2001 standard, ensuring the measurement methods remain precise and reflect current scientific understanding. It is part of the ISO/TC 108 technical committee work, which specializes in vibrations and mechanical shocks and their impact on humans.

Key Topics

• Vibrotactile Perception Thresholds (VPT): The standard defines procedures for measuring the minimum vibration amplitude perceivable at the fingertips, essential for neurological function assessment.
• Methods of Measurement: Updated methodological guidance on different hand orientations, probe positioning, and subject interaction during measurements to ensure consistency and reliability.
• Amendment Highlights: Adds notes clarifying observed differences in threshold results stemming from variations in hand orientation or measurement method, emphasizing strict control of contact force and subject attention.
• Neurological Assessment: Focuses on using VPT data to detect and gauge nerve dysfunction, supporting occupational health monitoring and clinical diagnostics.
• Measurement Conditions: Instructions for appropriate environmental and procedural conditions to minimize variability and enhance reproducibility in vibration sensitivity testing.

Applications

• Medical Diagnostics: Used by clinicians and neurologists to detect peripheral neuropathies, monitor progression of nerve dysfunction, and evaluate treatment response in patients exposed to mechanical vibrations or those with neurological conditions.
• Occupational Health: Vital tool in occupational safety for workers exposed to hand-transmitted vibration (HTV) to assess early signs of vibration-induced nerve damage.
• Research: Employed in scientific studies investigating the relationship between mechanical vibration exposure and sensory nerve health.
• Ergonomics: Helps in designing workplace interventions and safety equipment to reduce vibration exposure and prevent nerve-related disorders.
• Standardized Testing: Provides a uniform, internationally recognized protocol enabling consistent testing across different laboratories and clinical settings.

Related Standards

• ISO 13091 Series: This amendment is part of a broader set of standards dealing with vibrotactile perception thresholds and nerve dysfunction assessment, including additional parts covering other anatomical sites.
• ISO/TC 108 Standards: Related standards concerning human exposure to mechanical vibrations and shocks that provide complementary guidance on measurement and evaluation.
• ISO/IEC Directives: Guidelines for the development and revision of ISO standards ensure that the amendment aligns with international best practices for document structure and conformity assessment.

Keywords: ISO 13091-1, mechanical vibration, vibrotactile perception thresholds, nerve dysfunction assessment, fingertip measurement, neurological evaluation, hand-transmitted vibration, occupational health, vibration standards, sensory nerve testing