These criteria apply to pneumatic-tired prime movers such as those used to pull scrapers, water wagons, bottom dump wagons, side dump wagons, rear dump wagons, and towed fifth wheel attachments. (See SAE J869, J728, and J734 for description and nomenclature.)

Because, this recommended practice presents both procedure and criteria that are intended for consideration as worldwide standards for ROPS, the following points are explicitly stated to aid in understanding its underlying principles, intention, and application.