This standard specifies the required inspection for each level of inspection, procedures for the inspection, and testing of used drill stem elements. For the purposes of this standard, drill stem elements include drill pipe body, tool joints, rotary shouldered connections, drill collar, heavy weight drill pipe, and the connecting ends of drill stem elements.

This standard also specifies the qualification of inspection personnel, a description of inspection methods and apparatus calibration, and standardization procedures for various inspection methods. The evaluation of imperfections and the marking of inspected drill stem elements is included.

This standard provides information for the evaluation of imperfections, the marking of inspected drill stem elements, and the requirements regarding the minimum information needed for the inspection of original equipment manufacturers' specialized tools.