This European Standard specifies the methods for determining characteristic values for bending strength and modulus of elasticity, of any population of wood poles. It is not intended for routine quality control. This standard covers only single poles under cantilever or compression loading. For example, this standard does not cover poles used as beams. The provision of poles for use in any overhead line or cable infrastructure shall take into account a range of factors not covered by this standard which will necessitate the specification by the end user of complementary and synonymous attributes to those defined in this standard. This refers to requirements for a number of factors including safety, overhead plant, handling, fittings, installation machinery and working practices including climbing.