3.1 Definitions, acronyms, and units given in Section 4 of this terminology are intended for use in all standards for declarable substances in materials. The definitions shall be used uniformly and consistently. The purpose of this terminology is to promote clear understanding and interpretation of the standards in which those definitions, acronyms, and units are used.

3.2 A terminology section is required in all F40 standards. This section shall contain terms specific to the standard or a reference to this terminology, or both.

3.3 All terms used within a standard that are unique to it shall be defined within the standard. Terms that are of more general application shall be defined in this terminology. If the technical subcommittee responsible for the standard feels that it is appropriate, the term and its definition may appear in both the standard and in this terminology.

3.4 The Subcommittee shall consult the ASTM Dictionary of Engineering Science & Technology or a standard dictionary, or both, prior to creating a new definition to determine if a suitable definition already exists. Other terminology documents, such as ISO 472 Plastics-Vocabulary, may also be consulted.