This practice covers sampling and analysis procedures for the investigation and evaluation of allowable properties of specified populations of stress-graded structural lumber. This practice generally assumes that the population is sufficiently large so that, for sampling purposes, it may be considered infinite. The population shall be clearly defined where it may be necessary to specify the following: (1) grade name and description, (2) geographical area over which sampling will take place, (3) species or species group, (4) time span for sampling (5) lumber size, and (6) moisture content. Two statistical techniques are described under this practice, namely: parametric and nonparametric analysis. The sampling methods include: (1) random sampling, (2) sampling with unequal probabilities, and (3) sequential sampling. Selection and method of determining sample size are detailed. The results of the tests performed shall be presented as (1) a set of summarizing statistics, and (2) an appendix of unadjusted individual test specimen results. The procedures and requirements for analysis of results are detailed and includes the following: (1) adjustment factors used to reduce the test statistics to the level of allowable properties, (2) formula for calculating apparent modulus of elasticity, sample mean, sample standard deviation, and confidence interval for the mean (3) sample nonparametric percent point estimate, (4) nonparametric lower tolerance limit, (5) parametric point estimate, (6) lower parametric tolerance limit, and (7) histogram and empirical cumulative distribution function. This practice does not specify the action to be taken after the results have been analyzed.

1.1 This practice covers sampling and analysis procedures for the investigation of specified populations of wood and wood-based structural products referred to in this standard as products. Appropriate product standards should be referenced for presentation requirements for data. Depending on the interest of the user, the population from which samples are taken may range from the products produced at a specific manufacturing site to all the products produced in a particular grade from a particular geographic area, during some specified interval of time. This practice generally assumes that the population is sufficiently large so that, for sampling purposes, it may be considered infinite. Where this assumption is inadequate, that is, the population is assumed finite, many of the provisions of this practice may be employed but the sampling and analysis procedure must be designed to reflect a finite population. The statistical techniques embodied in this practice provide procedures to summarize data so that logical judgments can be made. This practice does not specify the action to be taken after the results have been analyzed. The action to be taken depends on the particular requirements of the user of the product.

1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.3 This practice does not purport to address the adjustment factors needed to adjust test data to standardized mechanical and environmental conditions (that is, temperature, moisture, test span, or load duration). Additionally, it provides a basis for statistical estimates that will typically require further adjustment to determine design values for use with an accepted design methodology (that is, allowable stress, limit states, or load and resistance factor design). It shall be the responsibility of the user to seek out the appropriate adjustments in specific product standards.

1.4 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.

1.5 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.