The Machinery Directive requires machine manufacturers to reduce vibrations to the lowest possible level and to include information in the instruction handbook for the user of the machine concerning the residual risk caused by vibration. Standardization can support this directive requirement by standardizing technical measures for vibration reduction and test methods for vibration measurement. However, there are shortcomings, for example in the essential vibration standards and in the use of "guide values" in specific machinery safety standards to describe the state of the art with regard to vibration reduction.