This standard provides minimum specifications for the quality and dimensions of wood poles that are to be used as single-pole utility structures. The poles described herein are considered as simple cantilever members subject to transverse loads only. Fiber strength values, provided as a basis for determining pole class sizes, apply only to poles that meet or exceed the minimum quality specifications.

Requirements for the preservative treatment of poles are outside the scope of this standard. However, where such treatment or conditioning may affect strength, limitations are provided in section 5.1.2. [Also see standards such as those published by American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) and ASTM International (ASTM)].