1.1 This guide covers sampling, selection, preparation, and conditioning of specimens that will be used to test material properties of dimension stone.

1.2 This guide sets forth basic recommendations for sampling and preparation of dimension stone test specimens and provides information regarding variables that should be considered.

1.3 This guide is intended to be used by architects, engineers, contractors and material suppliers who design, select, specify, install, purchase, fabricate, finish, or test natural stone products for construction applications.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.