REAFFIRMED IN 2008. Covers the NACE external corrosion direct assessment (ECDA) process--a process of assessing and reducing the impact of external corrosion on pipeline integrity. ECDA is a continuous improvement process providing the advantages of locating areas where defects can form in the future, not just areas where defects have already formed, thereby helping to prevent future external corrosion damage. This standard covers the four components of ECDA: Pre-Assessment, Indirect Inspections, Direct Examinations, and Post Assessment. Key words: direct assessment, pipelines.