This part of ISO 10816 establishes general conditions and procedures for the measurement and evaluation of vibration using measurements made on non-rotating and, where applicable, non-reciprocating parts of complete machines. The general evaluation criteria, which are presented in terms of both vibration magnitude and change of vibration, relate to both operational monitoring and acceptance testing. They have been provided primarily with regard to securing reliable, safe, long-term operation of the machine, while minimizing adverse effects on associated equipment. Guidelines are also presented for setting operational limits.

The evaluation criteria relate only to the vibration produced by the machine itself and not to vibration transmitted to it from outside.

This part of ISO 10816 does not include any consideration of torsional vibration.