ISO 4259:2006 covers the calculation of precision estimates and their application to specifications. In particular, it contains definitions of relevant statistical terms, the procedures to be adopted in the planning of an inter-laboratory test programme to determine the precision of a test method, the method of calculating the precision from the results of such a programme, and the procedure to be followed in the interpretation of laboratory results in relation both to precision of the test methods and to the limits laid down in specifications.

The procedures in ISO 4259:2006 have been designed specifically for petroleum and petroleum-related products, which are normally homogeneous. However, the procedures described in this International Standard can also be applied to other types of homogeneous products. Careful investigations are necessary before applying ISO 4259:2006 to products for which the assumption of homogeneity can be questioned.