This document specifies procedures for assessing the resistance of paint systems when a cut in the form of a right-angle lattice pattern (cross-cut) or in the form of an X (X-cut) is made into the paint, penetrating through to the substrate. This document is only applicable if the cross-cut or X-cut test method is specified, together with the rating from the appropriate rating scale.

This document also specifies suitable equipment and defines inspection areas, sampling plans and acceptance/rejection criteria.

It does not specify ratings for particular coating systems.