This document defines methods to assess defects and to verify that products after the manufacturer process meet the requirements of the corresponding product standard. The principles of assessment of defects for live working products are detailed in this document to assist product standard developers in prescribing the best means to achieve suitable quality of every finished tool, device and piece of equipment.

The following elements are not covered by the present document, but are included in each
product standard:
- type tests;
- provisions and description for routine, sampling and acceptance tests;
- identification and classification of defects;
- risk analysis.

This document does not cover conformity assessment of commercial shipments or certifications.