ISO 12944-1:2017

Overview - ISO 12944-1:2017 (Paints and varnishes)

ISO 12944-1:2017 is the general introduction to the ISO 12944 series on corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems. It defines the overall scope, provides essential terms and definitions, and gives guidance for using the other parts of ISO 12944 in a project. The document also includes a general statement on health, safety and environmental protection and practical guidelines such as the use of sample areas.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and field of application
  • Applies to carbon or low-alloy steel structures (typically ≥ 3 mm) and considers new work and maintenance. Concrete reinforced with steel is excluded.
  • Covers surface types: uncoated steel, thermal-spray (Zn/Al/alloys), hot-dip galvanizing, zinc electroplating, sherardized, prefabrication-primed and other painted surfaces.
• Protective function covered
  • Focuses solely on the corrosion‑protective function of paint systems. It does not cover protection against microorganisms, chemicals, mechanical wear or fire.
• Coating types included / excluded
  • Includes paint products that dry/cure at ambient conditions. Excludes powder coatings, stoving enamels, heat‑cured paints and tank linings.
• Environment and durability classifications
  • Defines environmental categories (six atmospheric corrosivity classes and four immersion/soil categories Im1–Im4) and four durability ranges (low, medium, high, very high). Durability is an expected time to first major maintenance, not a guaranteed life.
• Project planning and quality guidance
  • Emphasizes planning for maintenance and refurbishment, use of sample areas for visual and performance checks, and requirements for areas inaccessible after assembly.
• Normative references and terms
  • Cross-references ISO 12944 parts 2–9 and related ISO 4628 series for degradation assessment.

Practical applications and users

ISO 12944-1 is essential for organizations involved in specifying, designing, applying and inspecting protective coatings on steel:

• Asset owners and facility managers setting corrosion protection and maintenance strategies
• Designers and engineers integrating protective systems into structural design
• Coating specifiers and consultants developing paint specifications
• Contractors and applicators preparing surface treatment and execution plans
• Inspectors and QA personnel using sample areas and degradation assessment methods
• Manufacturers aligning product descriptions with ISO corrosion protection guidance

Related standards

• ISO 12944 series (Parts 2–9) - classification, design, surface preparation, paint systems, test methods, execution, specifications and offshore guidance
• ISO 4628 series - evaluation of coating degradation (blistering, rusting, cracking, flaking)

ISO 12944-1:2017 provides the authoritative framework for selecting and using protective paint systems to manage corrosion risk on steel structures, helping stakeholders achieve consistent, safe and environmentally informed coatings practice.