# Research on Human Exposure to Transport-Induced Vibration in Buildings
## 1 Introduction
Poorly insulated or improperly maintained HVAC systems can produce continuous vibrations that permeate through the building structure. Elevators, especially in high-rise buildings, can also generate significant vibrations. The movement of the elevator cars, coupled with mechanical operations, can create vibrations that are transmitted through the building's framework. Another internal source of vibrations includes industrial equipment in buildings designed for manufacturing or laboratory use. Machines such as compressors, pumps, and motors can generate vibrations that affect both the structural integrity of the building and the comfort of its occupants. Vibrations propagating through the ground into the building may not only be harmful to the building structure or cause its accelerated wear [9; 10], but also affect the comfort of the residents [11; 12]. Persistent vibrations can lead to material fatigue, resulting in cracks and structural weaknesses over time. This can compromise the integrity of the building, leading to costly repairs and maintenance. Additionally, vibrations can affect sensitive equipment and machinery, leading to operational inefficiencies or failures. The effects of vibrations on occupants are multifaceted and can range from mild annoyance to severe health issues. They can be annoying for residents and building users, causing disturbances that affect daily activities [13]. For instance, vibrations can disrupt sleep, making it difficult for residents to get restful sleep, leading to sleep disorders. Chronic sleep disruption can, in turn, lead to a range of health issues, including fatigue, decreased cognitive function, and mood disorders. Vibrations in the low-frequency range from 5 to 25 Hz are especially undesirable because the resonance frequencies of human internal organs fall within this range [14]. When the frequency of the vibrations matches the natural frequency of an organ, it can cause resonance, amplifying the effects of the vibrations on the body. This can lead to various physiological responses, such as increased heart rate, nausea, and a feeling of disorientation. The human vestibular system, responsible for balance, is particularly sensitive to low-frequency vibrations. Exposure to such vibrations can lead to motion sickness-like symptoms, including dizziness and vertigo. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to low-frequency vibrations can affect the musculoskeletal system, leading to increased muscle tension and joint pain. In more severe cases, vibrations can lead to headaches and neurotic conditions [15; 16]. Constant exposure to vibrations, especially in sensitive frequency ranges, can cause stress and anxiety, contributing to neurotic symptoms. Long-term exposure to such environmental stressors can have significant mental health implications, including heightened irritability, depression, and anxiety disorders [17]. Human perception of vibrations in buildings, despite numerous studies and standard records, is still not fully understood, mainly due to the subjective nature of vibration perception by various people. This is evidenced by the changes introduced over the last dozen years in the standard provisions of individual countries and in international ISO standards [18; 19]. The issue of the impact of vibrations generated by means of transport has been the subject of many studies. The vast majority of them concern rail and metro transport in the context of the impact of vibrations on buildings and people as whole-body vibration (WBV). An example of a large research project is CargoVibes. The aim of this project completed in 2014 was to develop and assess measures to ensure acceptable levels of vibration for residents living in the vicinity of freight railway lines in order to facilitate the extension of freight traffic on railways [20]. In this project, the human response to the existing evaluation criteria was measured and new mitigation measures were designed.