Standard · Systems, environments and degradation
ISO 12944
Corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems, in nine parts.
ISO 12944 is the framework most protective coating specifications for steel structures are built on. This page lists the parts; the ISO 12944 guide explains how they work together on a job.
The parts
- Part 1: general introduction and the durability ranges.
- Part 2: corrosivity categories: C1 to C5 and CX in the atmosphere, Im1 to Im4 in water and soil.
- Part 3: design that helps corrosion protection.
- Part 4: types of surface and surface preparation.
- Part 5: protective paint systems.
- Part 6: laboratory performance test methods.
- Part 7: execution and supervision of the paint work.
- Part 8: writing specifications for new work and maintenance.
- Part 9: systems and test methods for offshore and related structures; it replaced ISO 20340.
A durability range is a planning figure for the time to first major maintenance, not a guarantee.
Use it: ISO 12944 for coating inspectors
33 practice items in the members area mention ISO 12944 (CIP 1: 4 · CIP 2: 6 · FROSIO written: 23).
Related
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Also published openly: Hempel: ISO 12944 brochure · Jotun: selecting the right system (ISO 12944 durability).
This page describes the subject of ISO 12944 in our own words; it does not reproduce the standard. For the full text, buy the current edition from ISO. Checked on 2026-10-04; errors go in the corrections log. CoatMentor is an independent study aid. It is not affiliated with ISO, AMPP, SSPC, NACE International, ASTM or FROSIO.