Ansi O5.1-2002

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
ANSI O5.1-2002
American National Standard for Wood Products -
Specifications and Dimensions
Problem Solvers to the Telecommunications Industry

American National Standard
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ANSI O5.1-2002
Published by
Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions
1200 G Street, NW, Suite 500
Washington, DC 20005
Copyright © 2002 by Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions

All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, in an electronic retrieval system or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of the publisher. For information contact ATIS at 202.628.6380. ATIS is online at <http://www.atis.org>.
Printed in the United States of America.

ANSI O5.1-2002
American National Standard for Wood Poles
Secretariat
Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions
Approved March 6, 2002
American National Standards Institute, Inc.

ANSI O5.1-2002
Foreword
The information contained in this Foreword is not part of this American National Standard (ANS) and has not been processed
in accordance with ANSI’s requirements for an ANS. As such, this Foreword may contain material that has not been subjected
to public review or a consensus process. In addition, it does not contain requirements necessary for conformance to the
standard.
This standard was developed by Accredited Standards Committee on Specifications for Wood Poles, O5, under the
sponsorship of the Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS). This committee was organized in December
1924 and has produced revisions of this pole specification from time to time as required or deemed beneficial. This standard
supersedes American National Standard O5.1-1992.
Suggestions for improvement of this standard will be welcome. They should be sent to ATIS, 1200 G Street, NW, Suite 500,
Washington, DC 20005.
This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by Accredited Standards Committee on Specifications for
Wood Poles, O5. Committee approval of the standard does not necessarily imply that all committee members voted for its
approval.
At the time it processed and approved this standard, the O5 Committee had the following members:
Ron Wolfe, Chairman
Steve Barclay, Secretary
Chad Underkoffler, Chief Editor
Name of Representative Name of Representative

Organization Represented Organization Represented
Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Ed Gurney Gjovik Consulting Inc. Lee R. Gjovik
Solutions Joel D. Sullivan
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Nelson G. Bingel, III
American Institute of Timber R. Michael Caldwell Engineers Robert O. Kluge
Construction Robert A. Reisdorff (Alt.) Robert C. Peters
John Hipke (Alt.)
American Wood Preservers Association John N. Kressbach
James McGougin Intec Services Marvin Hodgson
Robert C. Patterson
Chuck Stoddard Mississippi Forest Products Laboratory H. Michael Barnes
Les Lonning (Alt.)
National Rural Electric Cooperative James Carter

American Wood Preservers Institute James J. Healey Association Nick Klein (Alt.)
Chris Surak
Northwest Pole & Piling Shippers John Sears

APA - The Engineered Wood Assn Borjen Yeh Association
Brooks Manufacturing Co. Scott Shields Oregon State University Jeffrey J. Morrell
James Wilson (Alt.)
Canadian Electricity Assn. Gouri Bhuyan
Rocky Mountain Pole & Treating Todd Brown
Commercial Inspection Companies Charlie Smithwick Association
E.D. Williams
Rural Utilities Service H. Robert Lash
Edison Electric Institute/Electric Light and Simon Chiang
Power Dave D'Hooge Southern California Edison Arthur D. Peralta
Reed Rosandich
Gary Miller (Alt.)
Southern Pine Inspection Bureau Robby S. Brown
EDM International Jozsef Bodig
ii
ANSI O5.1-2002
Name of Representative Name of Representative

Organization Represented Organization Represented
Southern Pressure Treaters Association Karl Boatright West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau Donald A. Devisser
Colin McCown
Joseph Wheat Western Area Power Administration Gerald Paulson
Karen Rowe (Alt.)
State University of New York, College of Robert Meyer
Forestry Western Red Cedar Pole Association Scott Kirk
Telcordia Technologies Roy Deitchman Western Red Cedar Pole Association Jim B. Comerford
Larry Slavin (Alt.)
Western Wood Preservers Institute Randy Baileys

U.S. Crossarm Manufacturers B.W. Atchley Stephen F. Smith (Alt.)
Association
Williamette Industries Wayne Tjoelker

U.S. Department of Agriculture Ron Wolfe Gary Hamilton (Alt.)
iii
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table of Contents
1 SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................................................................... 1
2 NORMATIVE REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................................................... 1
3 DEFINITIONS................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2
4 POLE CLASSES........................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
5 MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4

5.1 GENERAL .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
5.1.1 SPECIES AND DESIGNATED FIBER STRESS VALUES ......................................................................................................................... 4
5.1.2 CONDITIONING, SEASONING, AND TREATMENT LIMITATIONS .......................................................................................................... 4
5.1.2.1 AIR SEASONING ................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
5.1.2.2 BOULTON DRYING TEMPERATURE .................................................................................................................................................... 4
5.1.2.3 KILN DRYING ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
5.1.2.4 STEAM CONDITIONING ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4
5.1.2.5 STEAMING (DOUGLAS-FIR AND WESTERN LARCH) ........................................................................................................................... 4
5.1.2.6 STERILIZATION ................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
5.1.3 SOLVENT RECOVERY........................................................................................................................................................................ 5
5.1.4 RATE OF GROWTH ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
5.2 PROHIBITED DEFECTS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 5
5.3 PERMITTED DEFECTS............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
5.3.1 FIRM RED HEART .............................................................................................................................................................................. 5
5.3.2 HOLLOW PITH CENTERS ................................................................................................................................................................... 5
5.3.3 SAP STAIN ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
5.3.4 SCARS .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
5.4 LIMITED DEFECTS ................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
5.4.1 BARK INCLUSIONS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 6
5.4.2 COMPRESSION WOOD ...................................................................................................................................................................... 6
5.4.3 DEAD STREAKS ................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
5.4.4 DEFECTIVE BUTTS ............................................................................................................................................................................ 6
5.4.5 INSECT DAMAGE ............................................................................................................................................................................... 6
5.4.6 KNOT ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
5.4.7 SCARS (CAT FACE) ........................................................................................................................................................................... 6
5.4.8 SHAKES ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
5.4.9 SHAPE .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
5.4.10 SPIRAL GRAIN ................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
5.4.11 SPLITS AND CHECKS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 7
5.4.11.1 IN THE TOP ................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
5.4.11.2 IN THE BUTT ................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
6 DIMENSIONS................................................................................................................................................................................................ 7
6.1 LENGTH................................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
6.2 CIRCUMFERENCE .................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
6.2.1 GENERAL .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
6.2.2 CIRCUMFERENCE ............................................................................................................................................................................. 8
6.3 CLASSIFICATION ................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
7 MANUFACTURING REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................................................................... 8
7.1 BARK REMOVAL .................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
7.2 SAWING................................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
7.3 TRIMMING ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
7.4 SHAVING ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
7.5 MARKING AND CODE LETTERS .............................................................................................................................................................. 8
8 STORAGE AND HANDLING ........................................................................................................................................................................ 9
8.1 STORAGE .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
8.2 HANDLING ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
8.3 MECHANICAL DAMAGE .......................................................................................................................................................................... 9
9 FIBER STRESS HEIGHT EFFECT............................................................................................................................................................. 12
A DESIGN PRACTICE ................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
iv
ANSI O5.1-2002
B GROUNDLINE STRESSES ........................................................................................................................................................................ 32
C RELIABILITY BASED DESIGN .................................................................................................................................................................. 33

C.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 33
C.2 POLE CLASSES AND GEOMETRY ......................................................................................................................................................... 33
C.3 ADJUSTMENTS TO SPECIAL CONDITIONS ............................................................................................................................................ 33
C.4 GENERATION OF MATERIAL RESISTANCE DATA .................................................................................................................................. 35
D REQUIREMENTS FOR CONSIDERATION OF FOREIGN SPECIES INTO O5.1 ..................................................................................... 39
D.1 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 39
D.2 REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................................................................................. 39
E BIBLIOGRAPHY ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
F ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................................................................................................. 42
Table of Figures
Figure 1 - Measurement of sweep and short crook in poles ................................................................................................................................ 30
Table of Tables
1)
Table 1 - Designated Fiber Stress for Wood Utility Poles .................................................................................................................................. 11
Table 2 - Limits of Knot Sizes............................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Table 3 - Dimensions of Northern white cedar poles (Fiber Stress 4000 psi) ...................................................................................................... 14
Table 4 - (Intentionally left blank) ......................................................................................................................................................................... 16
1)
Table 5 - Dimensions of Western red cedar and ponderosa pine poles (Fiber Stress 6000 psi) ....................................................................... 18
Table 6 - Dimensions of jack pine, lodgepole pine, and red pine (Fiber Stress 6600 psi) ................................................................................... 20
Table 7 - Dimensions of Alaska yellow cedar poles (Fiber Stress 7400 psi)........................................................................................................ 22
Table 8 - Dimensions of Douglas-fir (both types) and Southern pine poles (Fiber Stress 8000 psi).................................................................... 24
Table 9 - Dimensions of Western larch poles (Fiber Stress 8400 psi) ................................................................................................................. 26
1) 2)
Table 10 - Dimensions of Scots pine (Scandanavian) poles (Fiber Stress 7800 psi)...................................................................................... 28
1),2)
Table C.1 - Groundline strength and stiffness values for new, green poles less than 50 feet (15.2m) long 0 ................................................ 36
Table C.2 - Groundline strength and stiffness values for new, green poles, 50 feet (15.2m) and longer, used in unguyed, single-pole structures
only .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 37
Table C.3 - Groundline strength and stiffness values for new, green poles, 50 feet (15.2m) and longer, used in structures other than unguyed
1), 2)
single-pole structures ............................................................................................................................................................................ 37
Table C. 4 - Correction factors for pole strength and stiffness (ki factors for equations 2 and 3) ....................................................................... 38
Table C.5 - Height-effect correction factors for MOR ........................................................................................................................................... 38
Metric Tables
Table 3M - Metric dimensions of Northern white cedar poles (Fiber Stress 27.6 MPa) ....................................................................................... 15
Table 4M - (Intentionally left blank) ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
1)
Table 5M - Metric dimensions of Western red cedar and ponderosa pine poles (Fiber Stress 41.4 MPa) ........................................................ 19
Table 6M - Metric dimensions of jack pine, lodgepole pine, and red pine (Fiber Stress 45.5 MPa) .................................................................... 21
Table 7M - Metric dimensions of Alaska yellow cedar poles (Fiber Stress 51.0 MPa)......................................................................................... 23
Table 8M - Metric dimensions of Douglas-fir (both types) and Southern pine poles (Fiber Stress 55.2 MPa)..................................................... 25
Table 9M - Metric dimensions of Western larch poles (Fiber Stress 57.9 MPa) .................................................................................................. 27
1) 2)
Table 10M - Metric dimensions of Scots pine (Scandanavian) poles (Fiber Stress 53.8 MPa)....................................................................... 29
v
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD O5.1-2002
American National Standard

for Wood Poles –
Modification of the requirements may also be

1 Scope and general requirements necessary if the poles are to be used for other types
of construction such as multi-pole structures.
1.1 Scope
This standard provides minimum specifications for Requirements for the preservative treatment of poles
the quality and dimensions of wood poles that are to are outside the scope of this standard but may be
be used in single-pole utility structures. The poles found in other standards (for example, those of the
described herein are considered as simple cantilever American Wood-Preservers' Association and ASTM)
members subject to transverse loads only. Fiber and in customer specifications. However, exceptions
stress values, provided as a basis for determining are made to this exclusion in those cases where
pole class sizes, apply only to poles that meet or conditioning the wood for treatment or where the
exceed the minimum quality specifications. These actual process of preservation could reduce the
fiber stresses may be used to estimate the average designated fiber stress values below those listed in
groundline moment capacity of treated poles. 5.1.1. As a consequence, the minimum
circumference 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt, as
For taller single pole applications, the point of specified in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M
maximum bending stress may occur at a location through 10M), must be adjusted.
above the groundline due to the pole taper and other
effects. When this occurs, guidelines are provided to Metric equivalent groundline circumferences for
account for reduced fiber stress values in the pole at poles at 1.8m from the butt are provided in Tables
heights above the groundline, assuming linear taper 3M - 10M.
based on the minimum circumferences.
In addition, when the theoretical point of maximum

stress is projected to occur above groundline, the 1.2 General requirements
ultimate bending capacity of a pole changes as the
height of the applied horizontal load changes. The species, the length and class of poles; the type
of treatment (including seasoning details, if
An example of this can be seen in a pole with a seasoning is desired); aids to penetration such as
transverse load applied two feet from the tip that incising, groundline boring, or kerfing; and complete
causes the theoretical maximum bending stress to details for roofing, gaining, boring, and branding not
occur at a cross section located above the included in this standard shall be given in purchase
groundline. When the load is moved to a lower orders.
location on the pole, the point of theoretical
maximum stress moves lower on the pole. This Complete detailed instructions shall be given to the
lower cross section of the pole has a larger supplier whenever the requirements of this standard
circumference with a higher fiber stress value and are modified to meet special conditions.
the pole is expected to fail at a higher ultimate
bending capacity.
Both the application heights of the applied bending 2 Normative references

loads and the fiber stress height effect adjustments
should be considered in taller design applications. The standards listed below contain provisions which,
through reference in this text, constitute provisions
1
ANSI O5.1-2002
of this American National Standard. At the time of annual rings. Compression wood, compared with
publication, the editions indicated were valid. All normal wood, shrinks excessively lengthwise.
standards are subject to revision, therefore users of
this standard are encouraged to investigate the 3.5 cross break: A separation of the wood cells
possibility of applying the most recent editions of the across the grain. Such breaks may be due to
standards. internal strains resulting from unequal longitudinal
shrinkage or to external forces.
ANSI C2-2002, National electrical safety code.1
3.6 dead streak: An area, devoid of bark,
AWPA Standard M6, Brands used on forest products.
2
resulting from progressive destruction of the growth
cells of wood and bark at the edges of the streak.
ASTM D9-87, Definitions of terms relating to timber.
3 On a pole, a dead streak is characterized by a
discolored weathered appearance and by lack of
Wood Preservation Statistics, Forest Service, U.S.
evidence of overgrowth along the edges of the
4 deadened surface.
Department of Agriculture, 1973.
3.7 decay: The decomposition of wood
substance by fungi.
3 Definitions 3.8 decay, advanced (or typical): The older

stage of decay in which the destruction is readily
The following definitions shall apply to the terms recognized because the wood has become punky,
used in this standard: soft and spongy, stringy, ring-shaked, pitted,
crumbly, or -- in poles not stored or rafted in water --
3.1 air seasoning: Drying by the use of air is in a soggy condition. Decided discoloration or
where the air temperature is not more than 140°F bleaching of the rotted wood is often apparent.
(60°C) either in the open or under cover.
3.9 decay, incipient: The early stage of decay
3.2 Boulton drying: Drying by heating in that has not proceeded far enough to soften or
nonaqueous solution under vacuum. otherwise perceptibly impair the hardness of the
wood. Although the wood is invaded and some of its
3.3 check: The lengthwise separation of the properties may have deteriorated, no visible change
wood that usually extends across the rings of annual has occurred, with perhaps the exception of minor
growth and commonly results from stresses set up in discoloration.
wood during seasoning.
3.10 decayed knot: A knot containing decay.
3.4 compression wood: Abnormal wood Two types of decayed knot are recognized:
formed on the lower side of branches and inclined
– Type I: Knots containing soft or loose fibers
trunks of softwood trees. Compression wood is
(decay) that may extend the full length of the knot
identified by its relatively wide annual rings, usually into the pole and that are associated with heart
eccentric; relatively large amount of summerwood, rot;
sometimes more than 50% of the width of the annual
rings in which it occurs; and its lack of demarcation – Type II: Knots containing soft or loose fibers
between springwood and summerwood in the same (decay) that are not associated with heart rot.
3.11 face of pole: The concave side of greatest

curvature in poles with sweep in one plane and one
1
direction, or the side of greatest curvature between
Available from < http://shop.ieee.org/store >. groundline and top in poles having reverse or double
2
sweep.
Available from American Wood Preservers’ Association,
PO Box 5690, Granbury, TX 76049.
3.12 groundline section: That portion of a pole
3 between 1 foot (30cm) above and 2 feet (61cm)
Available from ASTM, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box
below the groundline, as defined in the pole
C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
dimension Tables (see Tables 3 through 10, or
4
Available from the U.S. Government Printing Office,
Tables 3M through 10M).
Washington, DC 20402.
2
ANSI O5.1-2002
wood hack into the sapwood, where healing has not

3.13 hollow heart: A void in the heartwood
reestablished the normal cross section of the pole.
caused by decay or insect attack.
3.24 shake: A separation along the grain, the
3.14 hollow pith center: A small hole at the pith
greater part of which occurs between the rings of
center of the trunk or of a knot caused by
annual growth.
disintegration of the pith (small soft core occurring in
the structural center of a tree or branch).
3.25 shelling: Ring separation extending to the
surface of round or sawn timber normally following
3.15 insect damage: Damage resulting from the
the growth rings and often associated with limiting
boring into the pole by insects or insect larvae.
defects such as knots, compression wood or shake.
Scoring or channeling of the pole surface is not
Ring separation usually becomes more pronounced
classed as insect damage.
as the product dries and may be further aggravated
by stress developed during horizontal lifting or
3.16 kiln drying: Drying by the use of heated air loading.
in batch or progressive-type kilns.
3.26 short crook: A localized deviation from
3.17 knot cluster: Two or more knots grouped straightness that, within any section 5 feet (1.5m) or
together as a unit, the fibers of the wood being less in length, is more than 1/2 the mean diameter of
deflected around the entire unit; distinct from a the crooked section. (See Figure 1, Diagram 3.)
group of single knots in which each is a unit.
3.27 spiral-grained (twist-grained) wood:
A knot cluster shall be considered as a single knot. Wood in which the fibers take a spiral course about
the trunk of a tree instead of a vertical course. The
3.18 knot diameter: The diameter of a knot on spiral may extend in a right-handed or left-handed
the surface of the pole measured in a direction at direction around the tree trunk. Spiral grain is a form
right angles to the lengthwise axis of the pole. The of cross grain.
sapwood as well as the heartwood portion of a knot
shall be included in the measurement. 3.28 split: A lengthwise separation of the wood
extending completely through the piece from one
NOTE – For a description of means for defining surface to another.
the limits of knots, see ASTM D9-87.
3.29 steam conditioning: Subjecting poles in a
3.19 red heart: A condition caused by a fungus,
closed vessel to steam prior to treatment.
Fomes pini, which occurs in the living tree. It is
characterized in the early stages of infection by a
reddish or brownish color in the heartwood. This is 3.30 sweep: Deviation of a pole from
known as “firm red heart.” Later the wood of the straightness. (See Figure 1, Diagrams 1 and 2.)
living tree disintegrates (decays) in small, usually
distinct, areas that develop into whitelined pockets.
3.20 sap stain: A discoloration of the sapwood, 4 Pole classes

caused by the action of certain molds and fungi,
which is not accompanied by softening or other NOTE - See Annexes.
disintegration of the wood.
Poles meeting the requirements of this standard are
3.21 scar: A depression in the surface of the pole grouped in the classes identified in Tables 3 through
resulting from a wound where healing has not 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M), based on their
reestablished the normal cross section of the pole. circumference measured 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt.
Poles of a given class and length are designed to
3.22 scar, turpentine acid face: An area in the have approximately the same load-carrying capacity,
lower portion of a southern pine pole where bark regardless of species. Annex B provides further
hack removal with acid applied has caused resin to information.
flow. No removal of sapwood has occurred.
3.23 scar, turpentine cat face: A depression in

the surface of a southern pine pole resulting from a
3
ANSI O5.1-2002
5.1.2.3 Kiln drying

5 Material requirements
Where kiln drying is employed on southern pine,
5.1 General ponderosa pine, red pine, jack pine, lodgepole pine,
5.1.1 Species and designated fiber stress Douglas-fir, and western larch, the maximum dry
values bulb temperature shall be increased gradually and
shall not exceed 170°F (77°C), with an exception
NOTE - See Table 1. noted below. Where kiln drying is employed on
western red cedar, the maximum dry bulb
The designated fiber stress values are for the pole temperature shall be increased gradually and shall
groundline locations given in Tables 3 through 10 (or not exceed 160°F (71°C). In compartment kilns
Tables 3M through 10M). operating at temperatures up to 170°F (77°C), the
maximum wet bulb depressions shall not exceed
50°F (10°C) with the exception that during the first
24 hours there is no limitation on wet bulb
5.1.2 Conditioning, seasoning, and depression. In progressive-type kilns operating at
treatment limitations temperatures up to 170°F (77°C), the maximum wet
bulb depression shall not exceed 50°F (10°C) in the
5.1.2.1 Air seasoning body of the kiln and 90°F (32°C) at the entrance to
the kiln.
Air seasoning is required for poles of species listed
in Treatment group A and not listed in any other Exception: Drying over 170°F (77°C) is permitted for
group in Table 1. It is permitted for all other species. southern pine, red pine, lodgepole pine, Douglas-fir,
Such air seasoning shall be sufficient to ensure and western larch species. The maximum dry bulb
conformance with the user’s specifications for temperature shall not exceed 230°F (110°C) for
preservative treatment. Presteaming or these species. For dry bulb temperatures over 200°F
aftersteaming is permitted for species in Treatment (93°C), the wet bulb depression shall be not less
group A. However, if such steaming is employed, the than 50°F (10°C) with the exception that during the
maximum temperature shall not exceed 240°F first 24 hours there is no limitation on wet bulb
(115°C). The total steaming time from the time depression.
steam is introduced into the cylinder, including both
initial and final steam, shall not exceed 4 hours
duration (see exception in 5.1.2.5). Up to 6 hours
steam at temperatures up to 240°F (115°C) may be 5.1.2.4 Steam conditioning
employed for ponderosa pine poles, provided the
moisture content (calibrated to the basis of oven dry The steam temperature employed in steam
weight moisture content) measured with a conditioning for poles of species in Treatment group
resistance-type moisture meter with insulated pins is C of Table 1 shall not exceed 245°F (118°C). The
not over 25 percent at 2.5 inches (6cm) from the time duration for poles with specified circumferences
surface at midlength when steaming commences. 37.5 inches (95cm) or less at 6 feet (1.8m) from the
Otherwise, the maximum steaming time for butt shall not exceed 17 hours and for poles with
ponderosa pine poles is 4 hours. specified circumferences larger than 37.5 inches
(95cm) at 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt shall not
exceed 20 hours.
5.1.2.2 Boulton drying temperature
The temperature employed in Boulton drying poles 5.1.2.5 Steaming (Douglas-fir and western larch)
of species listed under Treatment group B of Table 1
shall not exceed 220°F (104°C). These poles may Douglas-fir and western larch poles that are to be
be steamed up to 240°F (115°C) for a maximum treated with water-borne preservatives and that have
time of 4 hours, but such steaming shall be limited to not been Boulton dried may be steamed at a
steaming after treatment. maximum temperature of 240°F (115°C). For poles
in this category, the maximum duration starting with
the time steam is introduced into the cylinder,
including both initial and final steam, shall not
exceed 8 hours, provided each pole before steaming
4
ANSI O5.1-2002
has a maximum moisture content not exceeding 25

5.2 Prohibited defects
percent when measured with a resistance-type
moisture meter (calibrated to the basis of oven dry 1) Cross breaks (cracks);
weight moisture content) with insulated pins at 2.0
inches (5cm) from the surface at mid-height. 2) Decay, except as permitted for firm red
heart in 5.3.1, defective butts in 5.4.4,
and decayed knots in 5.4.6;
3) Dead streaks, except as permitted in
5.1.2.6 Sterilization 5.4.3;
When specified, suppliers shall provide the 4) Holes, open or plugged, except holes for
purchaser with certification that sterilization has test purposes, which shall be plugged;
occurred during the conditioning or treating process. 5) Hollow butts or tops, except as
To assure sterilization, heating times and permitted under hollow pith centers and
temperatures shall be sufficient to obtain a defective butts;
temperature of at least 150°F (65°C) at the center of
the entire pole for at least one hour. 6) Marine borer damage; and
7) Nails, spikes, and other metal not
specifically authorized by the purchaser.
5.1.3 Solvent recovery
When poles of any species have been treated with a 5.3 Permitted defects
system using an organic solvent-based preservative
solution, a solvent recovery cycle of not over 15 5.3.1 Firm red heart
hours at a maximum temperature of 225°F (107°C)
is permitted, provided each pole before treatment Firm red heart not accompanied by softening or
has a maximum moisture content of 25 percent other disintegration (decay) of the wood is permitted.
when measured with a resistance-type moisture
meter (calibrated to the basis of oven dry weight
moisture content) with insulated pins at 2.0 inches
(5cm) from the surface at mid-height. 5.3.2 Hollow pith centers
Hollow pith centers in the tops or butts and in knots

are permitted in poles that are to be given full-length
5.1.4 Rate of growth treatment.
The average rate of growth measured on the butt in

the outer 2 inches (5cm) of poles having a
circumference of 37.5 inches (95cm) or less at 6 feet 5.3.3 Sap stain
(1.8m) from the butt, and in the outer 3 inches (8cm)
of poles having a circumference of more than 37.5 Sap stain that is not accompanied by softening or
inches (95cm) at 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt, shall be other disintegration (decay) of the wood is permitted.
not less than 6 rings per inch (2.5mm).
Exception: Poles with 4 and 5 rings per inch (2.5cm)

are acceptable if 50% or more summerwood is 5.3.4 Scars
present.
Turpentine acid face scars are permitted anywhere
As an alternative, the ring count and summerwood on the pole surface.
measurements mentioned above may be made on
an increment core taken at 6 feet (1.8m) from the
butt directly above the place where the average rate
of growth is indicated on the butt surface.
5
ANSI O5.1-2002
5.4 Limited defects In determining the sum of the knot diameters in any
1-foot (31cm) section, only those knots with
5.4.1 Bark inclusions diameters over 0.5 inch (13mm) whose pith centers
fall within the section shall be included in the sum,
Depressions containing bark inclusions shall be not and the 1-foot (31cm) section shall be located so as
more than 2 inches (5cm) in depth, measured from to include the maximum number of knots (i.e., the
the surface of the pole. most severe condition).
Type II “decayed knots” are permitted.

5.4.2 Compression wood
The outer 1-inch (2.5cm) of all poles shall be free

from compression wood visible on either end. 5.4.7 Scars (cat face)
No pole shall have a scar or turpentine cat face

(southern pine) located within 2 feet (61cm) of the
groundline. Turpentine scars need be trimmed only
5.4.3 Dead streaks to the extent necessary for examination for evidence
of fungus infection and insect damage. Other sound
A single, sound dead streak is permitted in western
scars are permitted elsewhere on the pole surface,
red cedar and northern white cedar, provided the
provided they are smoothly trimmed and do not
greatest width of the streak is less than 1/4 of the
interfere with the cutting of any gain, and provided
circumference of the pole at the point of
that:
measurement.
1) The circumference at any point on
trimmed surfaces located between the
butt and 2 feet (61cm) below the
5.4.4 Defective butts groundline is not less than the minimum
circumference specified at 6 feet (1.8m)
Hollowing in the butt caused by "splinter pulling" in from the butt for the class and length of
felling the tree is permitted, provided that the area of the pole;
such a hollow is less than 10% of the butt area.
Hollow heart or decay, or both, is permitted in cedar 2) The depth of the trimmed scar is not
poles only, provided the aggregate area of the more than 2 inches (5cm), if the
hollow heart or decay, or both, does not exceed 10% diameter is 10 inches (25cm) or less, or
of the entire butt area and does not occur closer 1/5 the pole diameter at the location of
than 2 inches (5cm) to the side surface and provided the scar if the diameter is more than 10
that the depth of the hollow does not exceed 2 feet inches (25cm).
(61cm), as probed and measured from the butt
surface.
5.4.8 Shakes
Shakes in the butt surface that are not closer than 2

5.4.5 Insect damage inches (5cm) to the side surface of the pole are
Insect damage, consisting of holes 1/16 inch (2mm) permitted, provided they do not extend to the
or less in diameter, or surface scoring or channeling groundline. Shakes or a combination of connected
is permitted. All other forms of insect damage are shakes that are closer than 2 inches (5cm) to the
prohibited, except those associated with hollow side surface of the pole are permitted, provided they
heart in cedar poles. do not extend farther than 2 feet (61cm) from the
butt surface and do not have an opening wider than
1/8 inch (3mm). Shakes in the top surface are
permitted in poles that are to be given full-length
preservative treatment, provided that the shake is
5.4.6 Knot
not closer to the surface of the pole than the
The diameter of any single knot and the sum of knot midpoint of a line extending from the pith to the
diameters in any 1-foot (31cm) section shall not surface (i.e., the shake is permitted if it is closer to
exceed the limits of Table 2. the pith than to the surface of the pole).
6
ANSI O5.1-2002
5.4.11 Splits and checks
5.4.9 Shape 5.4.11.1 In the top
Poles shall be free from short crooks. A pole may A split or a combination of two single checks (each
have sweep subject to the following limitations: check terminating at the pith center and separated
by not less than 1/6 of the circumference) having
1) Where sweep is in one plane and one one or both portions located in a vertical plane within
direction only: For poles of all species, 30 degrees of the top bolt hole shall not extend
except northern white cedar, a straight downward along the pole more than 6 inches
line joining the surface of the pole at the (15cm). All other combinations of checks or a split
groundline and the edge of the pole at shall not extend downward along the pole more than
the top shall not be distant from the 12 inches (31cm).
surface of the pole at any point by more
than 1 inch (2.5cm) for each 10 feet
(3m) in length. The deviation for
northern white cedar poles is 1 inch 5.4.11.2 In the butt
(2.5cm) for each 5 feet (1.5m) in length.
(See Figure 1, Diagram 1.) A split or a combination of two single checks, as
defined above, shall not extend upward along the
2) Where sweep is in two planes (double pole more than 2 feet (61cm).
sweep) or in two directions in one plane
(reverse sweep): Except in northern
white cedar poles5, a straight line
connecting the midpoint at the
groundline with the midpoint at the top 6 Dimensions
shall not at any intermediate point pass
through the surface of the pole. (See For dimensions of particular species of poles, see
Figure 1, Diagram 2.) Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M).
5.4.10 Spiral grain

6.1 Length
Spiral grain (twist grain) is permitted as follows:
Poles less than 50 feet (15.2m) in length shall be not
Maximum twist of grain more than 3 inches (8cm) shorter or 6 inches (15cm)
Length of pole (feet) permitted longer than nominal length. Poles 50 feet (15.2m) or
30 (9.1m) and shorter 1 complete twist in any 10 more in length shall be not more than 6 inches
feet (3m) (15cm) shorter or 12 inches (31cm) longer than
nominal length.
35 (10.7m)-45 (13.7m), 1 complete twist in any 16
inclusive feet (5m)
Length shall be measured between the extreme
50 (15.2m) and longer 1 complete twist in any 20 ends of the pole.
feet (6m)
6.2 Circumference
6.2.1 General
Poles are classed while in the green condition.

5
The double sweep limitation for northern white cedar Subsequently, there may be some shrinkage due to
poles shall be as follows: Where sweep is in two planes conditioning, seasoning, or while in service.
(double sweep), the sum of the sweeps in the two planes Therefore, this shrinkage, which is usually about 2
(each sweep being measured as shown in Figure 1, percent as the pole dries below fiber saturation,
Diagram 1) shall be not greater than the allowance for
sweep in one plane and one direction for a pole of the
should be recognized if remeasuring circumference
same length. at a later date.
7
ANSI O5.1-2002
6.2.2 Circumference 7.2 Sawing
The minimum circumferences at 6 feet (1.8m) from All poles shall be neatly sawed at the top and at the
the butt and at the top, for each length and class of butt along a plane that shall not be out of square
pole, are listed in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M with the axis of the pole by more than 2 inches
through 10M). The circumference at 6 feet (1.8m) (5cm) per foot (31cm) of diameter of the sawed
from the butt of a pole shall be not more than 7 surface. Beveling at the edge of the sawed butt
inches (18cm) or 20 percent larger than the surface not more than 1/12 the butt diameter in
specified minimum, whichever is greater. The top width, or an equivalent area unsymmetrically
dimensional requirement shall apply at a point located, is permitted.
corresponding to the minimum length permitted for
the pole.
7.3 Trimming
6.3 Classification Completely overgrown knots, rising more than 1 inch

(2.5cm) above the pole surface, branch stubs, and
The true circumference class shall be determined as partially overgrown knots shall be trimmed close.
follows: Measure the circumference at 6 feet (1.8m) Completely overgrown knots less than 1 inch
from the butt. This dimension will determine the true (2.5cm) high need not be trimmed. Trimming may be
class of the pole, provided that its top (measured at done by shaving machine or by hand.
the minimum length point) is large enough.
Otherwise, the circumference at the top will
determine the true class, provided that the
circumference at 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt does not 7.4 Shaving
exceed the specified minimum by more than 7
inches (18 cm) or 20 percent, whichever is greater. If shaving is used, the depth of cut shall not be more
than necessary to remove inner bark and to trim
smoothly and closely all branch stubs and
overgrown knots. There shall be no abrupt change in
the contour of the pole surface between the
7 Manufacturing requirements groundline and the aboveground sections. The lower
2 feet (61cm) of poles may be trimmed to remove
7.1 Bark removal wood fibers causing butt flare, provided sufficient
sapwood remains to obtain customer’s minimum
Outer bark shall be completely removed from all penetration requirement.
poles.
On all poles, no patch of inner bark more than 1 inch

(2.5cm) wide shall be left on the pole surface 7.5 Marking and code letters
between the butt and 2 feet (61cm) below the
groundline. The following information shall be burn-branded
legibly and permanently on the face and the butt of
On poles that are to be given full-length treatment, each pole or included on a metal tag affixed thereto
no patch of inner bark larger than 1 inch (2.5cm) (see note below):
wide and 6 inches (15cm) long shall be left on the
pole surface between the top and 2 feet (61cm) 1) The supplier’s code or trademark;
below the groundline.
2) The plant location and the year of
On poles that are to be butt-treated, no patch of treatment;
inner bark larger than 1 inch (2.5cm) wide and 6
inches (15cm) long shall be left on the pole surface 3) Code letters denoting the pole species
between points 1 foot (30cm) above and 2 feet and preservative used; and
(61cm) below the groundline.
8
ANSI O5.1-2002
arrangement and order of the code letters and figures

4) The true circumference-class numeral shall be as follows:
and numerals showing the length of the
pole. Metal tags (noncorrosive) attached PTC Supplier’s code or trademark (for
to the butt of a pole shall be securely example, Pole Treating Company)
affixed to serve the intended purpose.
F-86 Plant location and year of treatment
(for example, Forestville - 1986)
NOTE – The supplier’s code or trademark, the plant SPC Species and preservative code (for
location, the year of treatment, and code letters example, southern pine, creosote)
denoting the pole species and preservative used may
be omitted from the butt by agreement between 5-35 Size (for example. Class 5 - 35-foot
supplier and purchaser. Information included in (4) pole (Class 5 – 10.7m pole)
above may then be die-stamped or hammer-stamped.
The code letters, not less than 5/8-inch (16mm) high 8 Storage and handling
if burn-branded, and not less than 1/8-inch (3mm)
high if on a metal tag, designating the pole species 8.1 Storage
and preservative used, shall be as follows:
When it is necessary to hold poles in storage, they
Species Code shall be stacked on treated or other nondecaying
letters skids of such dimensions, and so arranged, as to
Cedar
support the poles without producing noticeable
distortion of any of them. The height of the piles
Alaska yellow YC shall be limited to avoid damage to poles on the
Northern white (eastern) EC bottom layers. Poles shall be piled and supported in
Western red WC such a manner that all poles are at least 1 foot
Douglas-fir DF
(30cm) above the general ground level and any
vegetation growing thereon. No decayed or
Larch, western WL decaying wood shall be permitted to remain
Pine underneath stored poles.
Jack JP
Lodgepole LP
Ponderosa WP
8.2 Handling
Red (Norway) NP
Scots PS Poles shall not be dragged along the ground. Cant
Southern SP
hooks, pole tongs, or other pointed tools shall not be
applied to the groundline section of any pole.
Loblolly
Longleaf
Shortleaf
Slash 8.3 Mechanical damage
Poles are not acceptable if they contain indentations

attributed to loading or handling slings that are 1/4
NOTE – The preservative will be designated by adding inch (6mm) or more deep over 20% or more of the
to the species code the proper preservative code from pole circumference, or more than 1/2 inch (12mm)
the latest edition of American Wood-Preservers’ deep at any point. Other indentations or abrasions,
Association Standard M6. for example, forklift damage, chain-saw damage,
etc., shall not be more than 1/10 the pole diameter
The bottom of the brand or mark shall be placed
at the point of damage up to a maximum of 1 inch
squarely on the face of the pole and at 10 feet (3m) +/-
2 inches (5cm) from the butt of poles 50 feet (15.2m) or (2.5cm). Such damage is permitted in an oversized
less in length and at 14 feet (4.3m) +/- 2 inches (5cm) section, where the excess of wood shall be taken
from the butt of poles 55 feet (16.8m) or more in length into consideration in evaluating the effects of the
or as otherwise specified in the purchase order. The damage. In any case, the circumference for a given
9
ANSI O5.1-2002
class is still required to be not less than the

specification minimum.
10
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 1 - Designated Fiber Stress for Wood Utility Poles1)

Fiber Stress Fiber Stress
Treatment Group Genus and Species
(psi) (kPa)
Group A (air seasoning)
Cedar, northern white (eastern) Thuja occidentalis 4000 27600
2)
Cedar, western red Thuja plicata 6000 41400
Pine, ponderosa Pinus ponderosa 6000 41400
Pine, jack Pinus banksiana 6600 45500
Pine, lodgepole Pinus contorta 6600 45500
Pine, red (Norway) Pinus resinosa 6600 45500
Pine, Scots Pinus sylvestris 7800 53800
Cedar, Alaska yellow Chamaecyparis nootkatensis 7400 51000
2)
Douglas-fir, interior north Pseudotsuga menziesii 8000 55200
Group B (Boulton drying)

Douglas-fir, coast 2) Pseudotsuga menziesii 8000 55200
Larch, western Larix occidentalis 8400 57900
Group C (steam conditioning)

Pine, southern2) 8000 55200
Loblolly Pinus taeda
Longleaf Pinus palustris
Shortleaf Pinus echinata
Slash Pinus elliottii
Group D (kiln drying)

2)
Cedar, western red Thuja plicata 6000 41400
2)
Douglas-fir, interior north Pseudotsuga menziesii 8000 55200
2)
Douglas-fir, coastal Pseudotsuga menziesii 8000 55200
Larch, western Larix occidentalis 8400 57900
Pine, jack Pinus banksiana 6600 45500
Pine, lodgepole Pinus contorta 6600 45500
Pine, ponderosa Pinus ponderosa 6000 41400
Pine, red Pinus resinosa 6600 45500
Pine, Scots Pinus sylvestris 7800 53800
Pine, southern2) 8000 55200
Loblolly Pinus taeda
Longleaf Pinus palustris
Shortleaf Pinus echinata
Slash Pinus elliottii
NOTES:
1)
The effects of conditioning on fiber stress have been accounted for in the Table 1 values.
2)
This designated fiber stress represents a mean, groundline, fiber stress value with a corresponding coefficient
of variation equal to .20.
11
ANSI O5.1-2002
9 Fiber stress height effect

Round timbers are known to decrease in ultimate unit strength with height above groundline. When analyzing a
pole based on minimum circumferences and assumed linear taper as described in this standard, and the
theoretical point of maximum bending stress is at a location above the groundline, a reduction in fiber stress for
height should be applied. The fiber stress should be reduced for the height above ground using the formula:
F2 = F1 (1–0.5 H/L)…(Eq. A.1)
where:
F1 is the tabulated fiber stress value
F2 is the calculated fiber stress value at distance H;
H is the distance from groundline to point above ground where fiber stress is F2 (maximum value of H can
be L/2); and
L is the length of pole from groundline to top of pole.
12
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 2 - Limits of Knot Sizes
Maximum sizes permitted
Sum of
Diameter diameters of
of any all knots greater
single knot than 0.5 inch (1.3cm) in
(in) and (cm) any 1-foot (31cm) section
(in) and (cm)
Classes Classes
Length of Pole All Classes
H6 to 3 4 to 10
45 feet (13.7m) and shorter

Lower half of length 3 in (8cm) 2 in (5cm) 1/3 of the average circumference
Upper half of length 5 in (13cm) 4 in (10cm) of the same 1-foot (31cm) section
or 8 inches (20cm), whichever is
greater, but not to exceed 12
inches (31cm) 1)
50 feet (15.2m) and longer

Lower half of length 4 in (10cm) 4 in (10cm) 1/3 of the average circumference
Upper half of length 6 in (15cm) 6 in (15cm) of the same 1-foot (31cm) section
or 10 inches (25cm), whichever is
greater, but not to exceed 14
inches (36cm) 1)
NOTE - See clause 4 and Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M) for pole classes.
1) Both upper and lower halves
13
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 3 - Dimensions of Northern white cedar poles

(Fiber Stress 4000 psi)
Class 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
Minimum circumference
27 25 23 21 19 17 15 15 12
at top (in)
Length Groundline1)
of distance Minimum circumference at 6 ft from butt
pole from butt (in)
(ft) (ft)
20 4 38.0 35.5 33.0 30.5 28.0 26.0 24.0 22.0 17.5
25 5 42.0 39.5 36.5 34.0 31.5 29.0 27.0 24.0 19.5
30 5.5 45.5 43.0 40.0 37.0 34.5 32.0 29.5 26.0 –
35 6 49.0 46.0 42.5 39.5 37.0 34.0 31.5 – –
40 6 51.5 48.5 45.0 42.0 39.0 36.0 – – –
45 6.5 54.5 51.0 47.5 44.0 41.0 – – – –
50 7 57.0 53.5 49.5 46.0 43.0 – – – –
55 7.5 59.0 55.5 51.5 48.0 – – – – –
60 8 61.0 57.5 53.5 50.0 – – – – –
NOTE - Classes and lengths for which circumferences at 6 feet from the butt are listed in boldface type are the preferred standard sizes.
Those shown in light type are included for engineering purposes only.
1)
The figures in this column are intended for use only when a definition of groundline is necessary in order to apply requirements relating
to scars, straightness, etc.
14
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 3M - Metric dimensions of Northern white cedar poles

(Fiber Stress 27.6 MPa)
Class
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
69 64 58 53 48 43 38 38 30
at top (cm)
Length Groundline1)
of distance Minimum circumference at 1.8 m from butt
pole from butt (cm)
(m) (m)
6.1 1.2 97 90 84 77 71 66 61 56 44
7.6 1.5 107 100 93 86 80 74 69 61 50
9.1 1.7 116 109 102 94 88 81 75 66 -
10.7 1.7 124 117 108 100 94 86 80 - -
12.2 1.8 131 123 114 107 99 91 - - -
13.7 2.0 138 130 121 112 104 - - - -
15.2 2.1 145 136 126 117 109 - - - -
16.8 2.3 150 141 131 122 - - - - -
18.3 2.4 155 146 136 127 - - - -
NOTE - Classes and lengths for which circumferences at 1.8m from the butt are listed in boldface type are the preferred standard sizes.
Those shown in light type are included for engineering purposes only.
1)
The figures in this column are intended for use only when a definition of groundline is necessary in order to apply requirements relating
to scars, straightness, etc.
15
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 4 - (Intentionally left blank)
16
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 4M - (Intentionally left blank)
17
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 5 - Dimensions of Western red cedar1) and ponderosa pine poles
Class H6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
Minimum circumference at
39 37 35 33 31 29 27 25 23 21 19 17 15 15 12
top (in)
Groundline2)
Length of
distance from Minimum circumference at 6 ft from butt
pole
butt (in)
(ft)
(ft)
20 4 – – – – – – 33.5 31.5 29.5 27.0 25.0 23.0 21.5 18.5 15.0

25 5 – – – – – – 37.0 34.5 32.5 30.0 28.0 25.5 24.0 20.5 16.5
30 5.5 – – – – – – 40.0 37.5 35.0 32.5 30.0 28.0 26.0 22.0 –
35 6 – – – – 48.0 45.5 42.5 40.0 37.5 34.5 32.0 30.0 27.5 – –
40 6 – – 56.5 53.5 51.0 48.0 45.0 42.5 39.5 36.5 34.0 31.5 – – –
45 6.5 64.5 62.0 59.0 56.0 53.5 50.5 47.5 44.5 41.5 38.5 36.0 33.0 – – –
50 7 67.0 64.5 61.5 58.5 55.5 52.5 49.5 46.5 43.5 40.0 37.5 – – – –
55 7.5 70.0 67.0 64.0 61.0 57.5 54.5 51.5 48.5 45.0 42.0 – – – – –
60 8 72.0 69.0 66.0 63.0 59.5 56.5 53.5 50.0 46.5 43.5 – – – – –
65 8.5 74.5 71.5 68.0 65.0 61.5 58.5 55.0 51.5 48.0 45.0 – – – – –
70 9 76.5 73.5 70.0 67.0 63.5 60.0 56.5 53.0 49.5 46.0 – – – – –
75 9.5 78.5 75.5 72.0 68.5 65.0 61.5 58.0 54.5 51.0 – – – – – –
80 10 80.5 77.0 74.0 70.5 67.0 63.0 59.5 56.0 52.0 – – – – – –
85 10.5 82.5 79.0 75.5 72.0 68.5 64.5 61.0 57.0 53.5 – – – – – –
90 11 84.5 81.0 77.0 73.5 70.0 66.0 62.5 58.5 54.5 – – – – – –
95 11 86.0 82.5 79.0 75.0 71.5 67.5 63.5 59.5 – – – – – – –
100 11 87.5 84.0 80.5 76.5 72.5 69.0 65.0 61.0 – – – – – – –
105 12 89.5 85.5 82.0 78.0 74.0 70.0 66.0 62.0 – – – – – – –
110 12 91.0 87.0 83.5 79.5 75.5 71.5 67.5 63.0 – – – – – – –
115 12 92.5 88.5 84.5 80.5 76.5 72.5 68.5 64.0 – – – – – – –
120 12 94.0 90.0 86.0 82.0 78.0 74.0 69.5 65.0 – – – – – – –
125 12 95.5 91.5 87.5 83.0 79.0 75.0 70.5 66.0 – – – – – – –
NOTE – Classes and lengths for which circumferences at 6 feet from the butt are listed in boldface type are the preferred standard sizes. Those shown in light type are
included for engineering purposes only.
1) Dimensions of H Classes are applicable for western red cedar only.
2) The figures in this column are intended for use only when a definition of groundline is necessary in order to apply requirements relating to scars, straightness, etc.
18
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 5M - Metric dimensions of Western red cedar1) and ponderosa pine poles
Class
H6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
Minimum
circumference at top 99 94 89 84 79 74 69 64 58 53 48 43 38 38 30
(cm)
2)
Length Groundline
of distance Minimum circumference at 1.8m from the butt
pole from butt (cm)
(m) (m)
6.1 1.2 - - - - - - 85 80 75 69 64 58 55 47 38
7.6 1.5 - - - - - - 94 88 83 76 71 65 61 52 42
9.1 1.7 - - - - - - 102 95 89 83 76 71 66 56 -
10.7 1.7 - - - - 122 116 108 102 95 88 81 76 70 - -
12.2 1.8 - - 144 136 130 122 114 108 100 93 86 80 - - -
13.7 2.0 164 157 150 142 136 128 121 113 105 98 91 84 - - -
15.2 2.1 170 164 156 149 141 133 126 118 110 102 95 - - - -
16.8 2.3 178 170 163 155 146 138 131 123 114 107 - - - - -
18.3 2.4 183 175 168 160 151 144 136 127 118 110 - - - - -
19.8 2.6 189 182 173 165 156 149 140 131 122 114 - - - - -
21.3 2.7 194 187 178 170 161 152 144 135 126 117 - - - - -
22.9 2.9 199 192 183 174 165 156 147 138 130 - - - - - -
24.4 3.1 204 196 188 179 170 160 151 142 132 - - - - - -
25.9 3.2 210 201 192 183 174 164 155 145 136 - - - - - -
27.4 3.4 215 206 196 187 178 168 159 149 138 - - - - - -
29.0 3.4 218 210 201 191 182 171 161 151 - - - - - - -
30.5 3.4 222 213 204 194 184 175 165 155 - - - - - - -
32.0 3.7 227 217 208 198 188 178 168 157 - - - - - - -
33.5 3.7 231 221 212 202 192 182 171 160 - - - - - - -
35.1 3.7 235 225 215 204 194 184 174 163 - - - - - - -
36.6 3.7 239 229 218 208 198 188 177 165 - - - - - - -
38.1 3.7 243 232 222 211 201 191 179 168 - - - - - - -
NOTE – Classes and lengths for which circumferences at 1.8m from the butt are listed in boldface type are the preferred standard sizes. Those shown in light type are
1) Dimensions of H Classes are applicable for western red cedar only.
19
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 6 - Dimensions of jack pine, lodgepole pine, and red pine
Class 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
Minimum circumference at top

27 25 23 21 19 17 15 15 12
(in)
Groundline1)
Length of
pole
butt (in)
(ft)
(ft)
20 4 32.5 30.5 28.5 26.5 24.5 22.5 21.0 18.0 14.5
25 5 36.0 33.5 31.0 29.0 27.0 25.0 23.0 20.0 15.5
30 5.5 39.0 36.5 34.0 31.5 29.0 27.0 25.0 21.0 –
35 6 41.5 38.5 36.0 33.5 31.0 28.5 26.5 – –
40 6 44.0 41.0 38.0 35.5 33.0 30.5 – – –
45 6.5 46.0 43.0 40.0 37.0 34.5 32.0 – – –
50 7 48.0 45.0 42.0 39.0 36.0 – – – –
55 7.5 49.5 46.5 43.5 40.5 – – – – –
60 8 51.5 48.0 45.0 42.0 – – – – –
65 8.5 53.0 49.5 46.0 43.0 – – – – –
70 9 54.5 51.0 47.5 44.5 – – – – –
75 9.5 56.0 52.5 49.0 – – – – – –
80 10 57.5 54.0 50.5 – – – – – –
85 10.5 58.5 55.0 51.5 – – – – – –
90 11 60.0 56.5 52.5 – – – – – –
95 11 61.5 57.5 – – – – – – –
100 11 62.5 58.5 – – – – – – –
105 12 63.5 60.0 – – – – – – –
110 12 65.0 61.0 – – – – – – –
115 12 66.0 62.0 – – – – – – –
120 12 67.0 63.0 – – – – – – –
125 12 68.0 64.0 – – – – – – –
20
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 6M - Metric dimensions of jack pine, lodgepole, and red pine
Class
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
Minimum circumference at top

69 64 58 53 48 43 38 38 30
(cm)
Length Groundline1)
of distance from Minimum circumference at 1.8 m from butt
pole butt (cm)
(m) (m)
6.1 1.2 83 77 72 67 62 57 53 46 37
7.6 1.5 91 85 79 74 69 64 58 51 39
9.1 1.7 99 93 86 80 74 69 64 53 -
10.7 1.7 105 98 91 85 79 72 67 - -
12.2 1.8 112 104 97 90 84 77 - - -
13.7 2.0 117 109 102 94 88 81 - - -
15.2 2.1 122 114 107 99 91 - - - -
16.8 2.3 126 118 110 103 - - - - -
18.3 2.4 131 122 114 107 - - - - -
19.8 2.6 135 126 117 109 - - - - -
21.3 2.7 138 130 121 113 - - - - -
22.9 2.9 142 133 124 - - - - - -
24.4 3.1 146 137 128 - - - - - -
25.9 3.2 149 140 131 - - - - - -
27.4 3.4 152 144 133 - - - - - -
29.0 3.4 156 146 - - - - - - -
30.5 3.4 159 149 - - - - - - -
32.0 3.7 161 152 - - - - - - -
33.5 3.7 165 155 - - - - - - -
35.1 3.7 168 157 - - - - - - -
36.6 3.7 170 160 - - - - - - -
38.1 3.7 173 163 - - - - - - -
21
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 7 - Dimensions of Alaska yellow cedar poles
Class H6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
39 37 35 33 31 29 27 25 23 21 19 17 15 15 12
top (in)
Groundline1)
Length of
pole
butt (in)
(ft)
(ft)
20 4 – – – – – 31.5 29.5 27.5 25.5 23.5 22.0 20.0 17.5 14.0

25 5 – – – – – – 34.5 32.5 30.0 28.0 26.0 24.0 22.0 19.5 15.0
30 5.5 – – – – – – 37.5 35.0 32.5 30.0 28.0 26.0 24.0 20.5 –
35 6 – – – – 45.0 42.5 40.0 37.5 35.0 32.0 30.0 27.5 25.5 – –
40 6 – – 52.5 50.0 47.5 45.0 42.0 39.5 37.0 34.0 31.5 29.0 25.5 – –
45 6.5 – 57.5 55.0 52.5 49.5 47.0 44.0 41.5 38.5 36.0 33.0 30.5 – – –
50 7 60.0 60.0 57.0 54.5 51.5 49.0 46.0 43.0 40.0 37.5 34.5 – – – –
55 7.5 62.5 62.0 59.5 56.5 53.5 50.5 47.5 44.5 41.5 39.0 – – – – –
60 8 65.0 64.0 61.5 58.5 55.5 52.5 49.5 46.0 43.0 40.0 – – – – –
65 8.5 67.0 66.0 63.0 60.0 57.0 54.0 51.0 47.5 44.5 41.5 – – – – –
70 9 69.0 68.0 65.0 62.0 58.5 55.5 52.5 49.0 46.0 42.5 – – – – –
75 9.5 71.0 69.5 66.5 63.5 60.0 57.0 53.5 50.5 47.0 – – – – – –
80 10 73.0 71.5 68.0 65.0 61.5 58.5 55.0 51.5 48.5 – – – – – –
85 10.5 74.5 73.0 70.0 66.5 63.0 59.5 56.0 53.0 49.5 – – – – – –
90 11 76.0 74.5 71.0 68.0 64.5 61.0 57.5 54.0 50.5 – – – – – –
95 11 78.0 76.0 72.5 69.5 66.0 62.0 58.5 55.0 – – – – – – –
100 11 79.5 77.5 74.0 70.5 67.0 63.5 60.0 56.0 – – – – – – –
105 12 81.0 79.0 75.5 72.0 68.5 64.5 61.0 57.0 – – – – – – –
110 12 82.5 80.5 77.0 73.0 69.5 65.5 62.0 58.0 – – – – – – –
115 12 84.0 81.5 78.0 74.5 70.5 67.0 63.0 59.0 – – – – – – –
120 12 85.5 83.0 79.5 75.5 72.0 68.0 64.0 60.0 – – – – – – –
125 12 86.5 84.5 80.5 76.5 73.0 69.0 65.0 61.0 – – – – – – –
88.0
NOTE – Classes and lengths for which circumferences at 6 feet from the butt are listed in boldface type are the preferred standard sizes. Those shown in light
type are included for engineering purposes only.
1) The figures in this column are intended for use only when a definition of groundline is necessary in order to apply requirements relating to scars, straightness,
etc.
22
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 7M - Metric dimensions of Alaska yellow cedar poles
Class
H6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
99 94 89 84 79 74 69 64 58 53 48 43 38 38 30
top (cm)
Length Groundline1)
pole butt (cm)
(m) (m)
6.1 1.2 - - - - - - 80 75 70 65 60 56 51 44 36
7.6 1.5 - - - - - - 88 83 76 71 66 61 56 50 38
9.1 1.7 - - - - - - 95 89 83 76 71 66 61 52 -
10.7 1.7 - - - - 114 108 102 95 89 81 76 70 65 - -
12.2 1.8 - - 133 127 121 114 107 100 94 86 80 74 65 - -
13.7 2.0 152 146 140 133 126 119 112 105 98 91 84 77 - - -
15.2 2.1 159 152 145 138 131 124 117 109 102 95 88 - - - -
16.8 2.3 165 157 151 144 136 128 121 113 105 99 - - - - -
18.3 2.4 170 163 156 149 141 133 126 117 109 102 - - - - -
19.9 2.6 175 168 160 152 145 137 130 121 113 105 - - - - -
21.3 2.7 180 173 165 157 149 141 133 124 117 108 - - - - -
22.9 2.9 185 177 169 161 152 145 136 128 119 - - - - - -
24.4 3.1 189 182 173 165 156 149 140 131 123 - - - - - -
25.9 3.2 193 185 178 169 160 151 142 135 126 - - - - - -
27.4 3.4 198 189 180 173 164 155 146 137 128 - - - - - -
29.0 3.4 202 193 184 177 168 157 149 140 - - - - - - -
30.5 3.4 206 197 188 179 170 161 152 142 - - - - - - -
32.0 3.7 210 201 192 183 174 164 155 145 - - - - - - -
33.5 3.7 213 204 196 185 177 166 157 147 - - - - - - -
35.1 3.7 217 207 198 189 179 170 160 150 - - - - - - -
36.6 3.7 220 211 202 192 183 173 163 152 - - - - - - -
38.1 3.7 224 215 204 194 185 175 165 155 - - - - - - -
NOTE – Classes and lengths for which circumferences at 1.8m from the butt are listed in boldface type are the preferred standard sizes. Those shown in light type
are included for engineering purposes only.
1) The figures in this column are intended for use only when a definition of groundline is necessary in order to apply requirements relating to scars, straightness,
etc.
23
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 8 - Dimensions of Douglas-fir (both types) and Southern pine poles
Class H-6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
39 37 35 33 31 29 27 25 23 21 19 17 15 15 12
top (in)
Groundline1)
Length of
pole
butt (in)
(ft)
(ft)
20 4 – – – – – – 31.0 29.0 27.0 25.0 23.0 21.0 19.5 17.5 14.0

25 5 – – – – – – 33.5 31.5 29.5 27.5 25.5 23.0 21.5 19.5 15.0
30 5.5 – – – – – – 36.5 34.0 32.0 29.5 27.5 25.0 23.5 20.5 –
35 6 – – – – 43.5 41.5 39.0 36.5 34.0 31.5 29.0 27.0 25.0 – –
40 6 – – 51.0 48.5 46.0 43.5 41.0 38.5 36.0 33.5 31.0 28.5 – – –
45 6.5 58.5 56.0 53.5 51.0 48.5 45.5 43.0 40.5 37.5 35.0 32.5 30.0 – – –
50 7 61.0 58.5 55.5 53.0 50.5 47.5 45.0 42.0 39.0 36.5 34.0 – – – –
55 7.5 63.5 60.5 58.0 55.0 52.0 49.5 46.5 43.5 40.5 38.0 – – – – –
60 8 65.5 62.5 59.5 57.0 54.0 51.0 48.0 45.0 42.0 39.0 – – – – –
65 8.5 67.5 64.5 61.5 58.5 55.5 52.5 49.5 46.5 43.5 40.5 – – – – –
70 9 69.0 66.5 63.5 60.5 57.0 54.0 51.0 48.0 45.0 41.5 – – – – –
75 9.5 71.0 68.0 65.0 62.0 59.0 55.5 52.5 49.0 46.0 – – – – – –
80 10 72.5 69.5 66.5 63.5 60.0 57.0 54.0 50.5 47.0 – – – – – –
85 10.5 74.5 71.5 68.0 65.0 61.5 58.5 55.0 51.5 48.0 – – – – – –
90 11 76.0 73.0 69.5 66.5 63.0 59.5 56.0 53.0 49.0 – – – – – –
95 11 77.5 74.5 71.0 67.5 64.5 61.0 57.0 54.0 – – – – – – –
100 11 79.0 76.0 72.5 69.0 65.5 62.0 58.5 55.0 – – – – – – –
105 12 80.5 77.0 74.0 70.5 67.0 63.0 59.5 56.0 – – – – – – –
110 12 82.0 78.5 75.0 71.5 68.0 64.5 60.5 57.0 – – – – – – –
115 12 83.5 80.0 76.5 72.5 69.0 65.5 61.5 58.0 – – – – – – –
120 12 85.0 81.0 77.5 74.0 70.0 66.5 62.5 59.0 – – – – – – –
125 12 86.0 82.5 78.5 75.0 71.0 67.5 63.5 59.5 – – – – – – –
24
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 8M - Metric dimensions of Douglas-fir (both types) and Southern pine poles
Class H6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
top 99 94 89 84 79 74 69 64 58 53 48 43 38 38 30
(cm)
Length Groundline1)
pole butt (cm)
(m) (m)
6.1 1.2 - - - - - - 79 74 69 64 58 53 50 44 36
7.6 1.5 - - - - - - 85 80 75 70 65 58 55 50 38
9.1 1.7 - - - - - - 93 86 81 75 70 64 60 52 -
10.7 1.7 - - - - 110 105 99 93 86 80 74 69 64 - -
12.2 1.8 - - 130 123 117 110 104 98 91 85 79 72 - - -
13.7 2.0 149 142 136 130 123 116 109 103 95 89 83 76 - - -
15.2 2.1 155 149 141 135 128 121 114 107 99 93 86 - - - -
16.8 2.3 161 154 147 140 132 126 118 110 103 97 - - - - -
18.3 2.4 166 159 151 145 137 130 122 114 107 99 - - - - -
19.8 2.6 171 164 156 149 141 133 126 118 110 103 - - - - -
21.3 2.7 175 169 161 154 145 137 130 122 114 105 - - - - -
22.9 2.9 180 173 165 157 150 141 133 124 117 - - - - - -
24.4 3.1 184 177 169 161 152 145 137 128 119 - - - - - -
25.9 3.2 189 182 173 165 156 149 140 131 122 - - - - - -
27.4 3.4 193 185 177 169 160 151 142 135 124 - - - - - -
29.0 3.4 197 189 180 171 164 155 145 137 - - - - - - -
30.5 3.4 201 193 184 175 166 157 149 140 - - - - - - -
32.0 3.7 204 196 188 179 170 160 151 142 - - - - - - -
33.5 3.7 208 199 191 182 173 164 154 145 - - - - - - -
35.1 3.7 212 203 194 184 175 166 156 147 - - - - - - -
36.6 3.7 216 206 197 188 178 169 159 150 - - - - - - -
38.1 3.7 218 210 199 191 180 171 161 151 - - - - - - -
25
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 9 - Dimensions of Western larch poles
Class H6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
39 37 35 33 31 29 27 25 23 21 19 17 15 15 12
top (in)
Groundline1)
Length of
pole
butt (in)
(ft)
(ft)
20 4 – – – – – – 30.0 28.5 26.5 24.5 22.5 21.0 19.0 17.0 13.5

25 5 – – – – – – 33.0 31.0 29.0 26.5 24.5 23.0 21.0 18.5 14.5
30 5.5 – – – – – – 35.5 33.5 31.0 29.0 26.5 24.5 23.0 19.5 –
35 6 – – – – 43.0 40.5 38.0 35.5 33.0 31.0 28.5 26.5 24.5 – –
40 6 – – 50.5 48.0 45.5 43.0 40.0 37.5 35.0 32.5 30.0 28.0 – – –
45 6.5 57.5 55.0 52.5 50.0 47.5 45.0 42.0 39.5 37.0 34.0 31.5 29.0 – – –
50 7 60.0 57.5 55.0 52.0 49.5 47.0 44.0 41.0 38.5 35.5 33.0 – – – –
55 7.5 62.0 59.5 57.0 54.0 51.5 48.5 45.5 42.5 40.0 37.0 – – – – –
60 8 64.5 61.5 59.0 56.0 53.0 50.0 47.0 44.0 41.0 38.5 – – – – –
65 8.5 66.0 63.5 60.5 57.5 55.0 52.0 48.5 46.0 42.5 39.5 – – – – –
70 9 68.0 65.0 62.5 59.5 56.5 53.5 50.0 47.0 44.0 41.0 – – – – –
75 9.5 70.0 67.0 64.0 61.0 58.0 54.5 51.5 48.0 45.0 – – – – – –
80 10 71.5 68.5 65.5 62.5 59.0 56.0 52.5 49.5 46.0 – – – – – –
85 10.5 73.0 70.0 67.0 64.0 60.5 57.5 54.0 50.5 47.0 – – – – – –
90 11 74.5 71.5 68.5 65.0 62.0 58.5 55.0 51.5 48.5 – – – – – –
95 11 76.5 73.0 70.0 66.5 63.0 60.0 56.5 53.0 – – – – – – –
100 11 78.0 74.5 71.0 68.0 64.5 61.0 57.5 54.0 – – – – – – –
105 12 79.0 76.0 72.5 69.0 65.5 62.0 58.5 55.0 – – – – – – –
110 12 80.5 77.0 73.5 70.0 66.5 63.0 59.5 56.0 – – – – – – –
115 12 82.0 78.5 75.0 71.5 68.0 64.0 60.5 57.0 – – – – – – –
120 12 83.0 79.5 76.0 72.5 69.0 65.0 61.5 58.0 – – – – – – –
125 12 84.5 81.0 77.5 73.5 70.0 66.0 62.5 58.5 – – – – – – –
26
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 9M - Metric dimensions of Western larch poles
Class
H6 H5 H4 H3 H2 H1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10
99 94 89 84 79 74 69 64 58 53 48 43 38 38 30
at top (cm)
Length Groundline1)
pole butt (cm)
(m) (m)
6.1 1.2 - - - - - - 76 72 67 62 57 53 48 43 34
7.6 1.5 - - - - - - 84 79 74 67 62 58 53 47 37
9.1 1.7 - - - - - - 90 85 79 74 67 62 58 50 -
10.7 1.7 - - - - 109 103 97 90 84 79 72 67 62 - -
12.2 1.8 - - 128 122 116 109 102 95 89 83 76 71 - - -
13.7 2.0 146 140 133 127 121 114 107 100 94 86 80 74 - - -
15.2 2.1 152 146 140 132 126 119 112 104 98 90 84 - - - -
16.8 2.3 157 151 145 137 131 123 116 108 102 94 - - - - -
18.3 2.4 164 156 150 142 135 127 119 112 104 98 - - - - -
19.8 2.6 168 161 154 146 140 132 123 117 108 100 - - - - -
21.3 2.7 173 165 159 151 144 136 127 119 112 104 - - - - -
22.9 2.9 178 170 163 155 147 138 131 122 114 - - - - - -
24.4 3.1 182 174 166 159 150 142 133 126 117 - - - - - -
25.9 3.2 185 178 170 163 154 146 137 128 119 - - - - - -
27.4 3.4 189 182 174 165 157 149 140 131 123 - - - - - -
29.0 3.4 194 185 178 169 160 152 144 135 - - - - - - -
30.5 3.4 198 189 180 173 164 155 146 137 - - - - - - -
32.0 3.7 201 193 184 175 166 157 149 140 - - - - - - -
33.5 3.7 204 196 187 178 169 160 151 142 - - - - - - -
35.1 3.7 208 199 191 182 173 163 154 145 - - - - - - -
36.6 3.7 211 202 193 184 175 165 156 147 - - - - - - -
38.1 3.7 215 206 197 187 178 168 159 149 - - - - - - -
NOTE – Classes and lengths for which circumferences at 1.8m from the butt are listed in boldface type are the preferred standard sizes. Those shown in light type are included
for engineering purposes only.
27
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 10 - Dimensions of Scots pine (Scandanavian) poles1) 2)

Class 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
27 25 23 21 19 17 15
at top (in)
Length Groundline
of distance from Minimum circumference at 6 ft from butt
pole butt (in)
(ft) (ft)
20 4 30.5 29.0 27.0 25.0 23.0 21.0 19.5

25 5 33.5 31.5 29.5 27.5 25.0 23.5 21.5
30 5.5 36.5 34.0 32.0 29.5 27.5 25.0 23.5
35 6 39.0 36.5 34.0 31.5 29.0 27.0 25.0
40 6 41.0 38.5 36.0 33.5 31.0 28.5 26.5
45 6.5 43.5 40.5 38.0 35.0 32.5 30.0 28.0
1) Scots pine (Scandanavian) must have a minimum of 11 rings in the outer one (1) inch of wood.
2) This table pertains only to material produced in Scandinavia between north 60° and north 65°. Scots pine
produced in areas other than noted here must supply strength data as required in the ANSI O5.1 Annex C.
28
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table 10M - Metric dimensions of Scots pine (Scandanavian) poles1) 2)

Class 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
69 64 58 53 48 43 38
at top (cm)
Length Groundline
pole butt (cm)
(m) (m)
6.1 1.2 78 73 68 63 58 54 50
7.6 1.5 86 80 75 69 64 59 55
9.1 1.7 93 87 81 75 69 64 59
10.7 1.8 99 93 86 80 74 69 64
12.2 1.8 105 98 91 85 79 73 67
13.7 2.0 110 103 96 89 82 76 71
1) Scots pine (Scandanavian) must have a minimum of 11 rings in the outer 2.5cm of wood.
2) This table pertains only to material produced in Scandinavia between north 60° and north 65°. Scots pine
produced in areas other than noted here must supply strength data as required in the ANSI O5.1 Annex C.
29
ANSI O5.1-2002
DIAGRAM 1 - MEASUREMENT OF SWEEP IN ONE PLANE AND ONE DIRECTION
DIAGRAM 2-MEASUREMENT OF SWEEP IN TWO PLANES (DOUBLE SWEEP)

OR IN TWO DIRECTIONS IN ONE PLANE (REVERSE SWEEP)
DIAGRAM 3 - MEASUREMENT OF SHORT CROOK (THREE CASES SHOWN)
5 FT (1.5m) OR LESS
CASE 1: WHERE THE REFERENCE AXES ARE APPROXIMATELY PARALLEL
5 FT (1.5m) OR LESS
CASE 2: WHERE AXES OF SECTIONS ABOVE AND BELOW THE CROOK COINCIDE OR ARE PRACTICALLY COINCIDENT
5 FT (1.5m) OR LESS
CASE 3: WHERE AXIS OF SECTION ABOVE SHORT CROOK IS NOT PARALLEL OR COINCIDENT WITH AXIS BELOW THE
CROOK
NOTE - The three cases shown under Diagram 3 are typical and are intended to establish the principle of
measuring short crooks. There may be other cases not exactly like those illustrated.
Figure 1 - Measurement of sweep and short crook in poles
30
ANSI O5.1-2002
Annex A
(informative)
A Design practice
The information formerly provided in this annex has been incorporated into the body of this standard and
may be found in clause 9.
31
ANSI O5.1-2002
Annex B
(informative)
B Groundline stresses
Pole classes in this standard are defined so that poles of various species will have approximately equal
load-carrying capability. This annex explains the methods and assumptions used to establish these
classes.
The minimum circumferences specified at 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables
3M through 10M) have been calculated such that each species in a given class will not exceed the
groundline stresses approximately equal to those shown in 5.1.1 when a given horizontal load is applied 2
feet (61cm) from the top of the pole. The horizontal loads used in the calculations for separating the 15
classes are as follows:
Horizontal Horizontal
Class load (pounds) Newtons Class load (pounds) Newtons
H6 11,400 50,710 3 3,000 13,300
H5 10,000 44,480 4 2,400 10,680
H4 8, 700 38,700 5 1,900 8,450
H3 7, 500 33,360 6 1,500 6,670
H2 6,400 28,470 7 1,200 5,340
H1 5,400 24,020 9 740 3,290
1 4,500 20,020 10 370 1,650
2 3,700 16,500
In making the calculations, it was assumed that the pole is used as a simple cantilever and that the
maximum fiber stress in the pole subjected to the bending moment applied will occur at the assumed
groundline location. Allowance was not made for the reduction in fiber stress value from groundline to top
of pole and for the taper of the pole as described in Annex A, nor the effects described in 1.1. For a given
horizontal load and fiber stress value from 5.1.1, a minimum circumference at the groundline was
calculated using standard engineering formula. This circumference value was then translated to a location
6 feet (1.8m) from the butt using recognized average circumference tapers6 per foot of length between the
groundline and the 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt distance.
The assumed stress limit, location for analyzing the stress, and the location, direction and magnitude of
the load were selected for the purpose of assigning minimum circumferences presented in this standard.
These assumptions may or may not be applicable when designing a pole to fit a specific application,
particularly for taller poles.
6
Average circumference tapers (inches change in circumference per foot of length) used in determining the required
6-feet (1.8m) from butt circumference from the calculated requirement groundline circumference are as follows:
Inches mm
Western red cedar 0.38 10
Ponderosa pine 0.29 7
Jack pine, Lodgepole
pine and red pine 0.30 8
Southern pine 0.25 6
Douglas-fir 0.21 5
Western larch 0.21 5
Western hemlock 0.20 5
32
ANSI O5.1-2002
Annex C
(informative)
C Reliability based design

C.1 Scope
This annex provides wood pole strength and stiffness data for use with reliability-based design (RBD)
procedures. Data provided in this annex were adapted, in part, from Wood Pole Properties – Review and
Recommendations for Design Resistance Data, Volumes 1, 2, and 3 which contain detailed background
and literature upon which this annex is based. The data in this annex are not intended for use with
deterministic design procedures such as those embodied in ANSI C2-1987 or Bulletin 62-1. Many of the
clauses and subclauses in the body of this standard apply directly and completely to Annex C (i.e.,
clauses 3, 6, 7, and 8 and sub-clauses 1.2, 5.1.2 – 5.1.4, and 5.2 – 5.4). The remaining clauses in the
body of the standard are either partially or entirely inappropriate for use with the strength and stiffness
values provided in this annex.
Requirements for the preservative treatment of poles are not included in this standard. These
requirements are detailed in other standards (for example, those of the American Wood-Preservers’
Association and ASTM) and in customer specifications. Those conditioning and treatment processes in
common use, which are known to affect pole strength or stiffness, are accounted for in this annex.
Modifications in pole strength and stiffness caused by new conditioning or treating processes or
chemicals must be sufficiently documented such that appropriate adjustment factors can be established.
Note that the intent of this annex is to provide reliable strength and stiffness values for wood poles. These
values may be directly taken from the tabulated data in this annex or obtained for a specific set of poles
through nondestructive evaluation (NDE) or through destructive testing of representative poles with the
use of appropriate statistical sampling procedures.
C.2 Pole classes and geometry
Pole classes identified in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M) in the body of this standard
are applicable to this annex. The sizes given in Tables 3 and 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M) apply to
poles at moisture contents above fiber saturation for use with this annex. Poles of a given class and
length may not have the same load-carrying capacity from species to species and are, therefore, not
interchangeable.
The class minimum circumferences provided in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M), along
with an assumed straight-line taper between those points, describe the pole geometry used to determine
the strength and stiffness values given in Tables C.1 through C.3. Therefore, the values given in Tables
C.1 through C.3 are valid for design only when used with the class minimum dimensions provided in
Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M).
C.3 Adjustments to special conditions
The strength (at groundline) and stiffness values in Tables C.1 through C.3 are given for new, green,
untreated poles. Therefore, the tabulated strength and stiffness values for a specific manufactured pole
need further adjustments. In general, this adjustment procedure utilizes the following format:
Rm = MORm · k1 · k2...kn...(Eq. C.1)
33
ANSI O5.1-2002
Em = MOEm · k1 · k2...kn...(Eq. C.2)
where
Rm is the adjusted mean groundline strength;
MORm is the mean modulus of rupture (MOR) at groundline for new, green, untreated poles
based on pole class dimensions given in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M);
Em is the adjusted mean effective modulus of elasticity (MOE);
MOEm is the mean effective modulus of elasticity for new, green, untreated poles based on pole
class dimensions and linear taper given in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M); and
ki is the adjustment factor to account for the ith effect of the characteristics and processes
influencing pole strength and stiffness.
The MORm and MOEm values along with their respective coefficients of variation (COV), are provided in
Tables C.1 through C.3. The numerical values for the ki factors are provided in Tables C.4 and C.5. Note
that no adjustment factor is allowed for drying.
The values of MOR and MOE were determined from cantilever bending tests conducted on new, green
full-size poles. The load-pole tip deformation relationship and the ultimate breaking load, applied
transversely 2 feet (61cm) from the tip of the pole, were used to compute MOE and MOR at the
groundline. These data are based on the pole class circumference at 6 feet (1.8m) from butt and at the
tip, assuming linear pole taper, as given in Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M), rather than
actual pole dimensions.
The values provided in Table C.1 are valid only for poles shorter than 50 feet (15.2m). Adjustment factors
for processing effects are provided in Table C.4. Height-effect correction is not needed for poles less than
50 feet (15.2m) in length when used as unguyed single-pole structures.
The values provided in Table C.2 apply to poles 50 feet (15.2m) and longer when used in unguyed single-
pole structures only. The appropriate correction factors in Table C.4 must be used with the strength and
stiffness values in Table C.2. The mean MOR and COV values in Table C.2 already include height effects
for poles used in simple cantilever bending and are included to simplify the design procedure for unguyed
single-pole structures. These MOR values were adjusted for size effect to Class 2, 65-foot (Class 2-
19.8m) poles (see Tables 3 through 10 (or Tables 3M through 10M)) in accordance with Wood Pole
Properties – Review and Recommendations for Design Resistance Data, volume 3.
The values provided in Table C.3 also apply to poles 50 feet (15.2m) and longer. Table C.3 values,
however, are valid for poles used in structures other than unguyed singlepole structures. Appropriate
adjustment factors from Table C.4 must be used with the data given in Table C.3. Height-effect correction
factors from Table C.5 must be applied for mean MOR and its COV for southern pine. No height
correction is needed for effective MOE or its COV.
34
ANSI O5.1-2002
C.4 Generation of material resistance data
The strength and stiffness data provided in Tables C.1 through C.3 were obtained through testing of full-
size pole samples representing various species used in North America. Local variations are represented
only by their effects on the COV. No data are available representing a single supplier, a different grading
method or poles in service. The intent of this clause is to provide an opportunity to allow the use of
material resistance data more closely reflecting special conditions or the effects of localized in-service
conditions. The requirement for allowing the use of such alternate data in lieu of Tables C.1 through C.3
is that the user provides a statement about the confidence of the generated mean value evaluated by
standard statistical procedures. This uncertainty is then accounted for in the design procedure.
There are two approaches currently available for determining strength and stiffness data for a specific
group of new or in-service poles. One approach is to evaluate a statistically representative sample of the
poles by destructive testing. Sampling plans must be established according to recognized statistical
sampling procedures.
The second approach utilizes NDE and established correlations along with computer simulation to
estimate the distribution of strength and stiffness properties. This annex does not specify any particular
NDE or simulation procedure, however, the method must be proven reliable and able to provide
confidence values before any particular NDE-simulation procedure can be considered as acceptable for
use in determining wood pole properties.
35
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table C.1 - Groundline strength and stiffness values for new, green poles less than 50 feet (15.2m) long1),2)
MOR MOE
Sample Mean Sample Mean

Species Size psi (MPa) COV Size 106 psi (MPa) COV
Northern white cedar 28 4100 (28.3) 0.173 -- -- -- --

Western red cedar 387 6310 (43.5) 0.204 268 1.59 (.011) 0.224
Pacific silver fir 51 6380 (44.0) 0.173 51 1.67 (.012) 0.215
Douglas-fir:
Coastal 118 9620 (66.3) 0.135 39 3.35 (.023) 0.194
Interior 99 8020 (55.3) 0.179 -- -- -- --
Western hemlock 154 7530 (51.9) 0.18 154 2.23 (.015) 0.216
Western larch 48 10000 (69.0) 0.12 48 2.94 (.020) 0.19
Jack pine 189 7300 (50.3) 0.19 -- -- -- --
Lodgepole pine 218 6650 (45.9) 0.194 108 1.84 (.013) 0.223
Red pine 331 6310 (43.6) 0.174 229 1.63 (.011) 0.234
Southern pine 3) 143 10190 (70.3) 0.169 67 2.68 (.019) 0.201
White spruce 56 5520 (38.1) 0.208 56 1.44 (1.000) 0.239
NOTES
1.)
Data were adapted from Wood Pole Properties – Review, and Recommendations for Design Resistance Data, Volume 1, and are based on class minimum
circumferences (rather than measured circumferences as provided in the referenced volume at the tip and at 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt and linear taper between
these points. Red pine data was supplemented with Michigan Utilities Association test results.)
2.)
Values must be adjusted using the appropriate factors from Table C.4.
3.)
Longleaf, shortleaf, slash, and loblolly pines.
36
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table C.2 - Groundline strength and stiffness values for new, green poles, 50 feet (15.2m) and longer,
used in unguyed, single-pole structures only1), 2)
MOR MOE
Sample Mean Mean

Species Size Psi (MPa) COV 106 Psi (MPa) COV
Southern pine 120 8430 (58.1) 0.206 17.3 (.003) 0.184

Douglas-fir:
Coastal 165 7860 (54.2) 0.144 18.2 (.003) 0.182
Western red cedar 100 5200 (35.9) 0.192 11.0 (.002) 0.229
NOTES
1)
Data are based on class minimum circumferences at the tip and at 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt and linear
taper between these points.
2)
Values must be adjusted using the appropriate factors from Table C.4. Height correction not required for
Table C.2 MOR values.
3)
Table C.3 - Groundline strength and stiffness values for new, green poles, 50 feet (15.2m) and longer,
used in structures other than unguyed single-pole structures 1), 2)
MOR MOE
Sample Mean Mean

Species Size Psi (MPa) COV 106 Psi (MPa) COV
Southern pine 3) 120 9400 (64.8) 0.125 2.51 (.017) 0.184

Douglas-fir:
Coastal 165 7860 (54.2) 0.144 2.64 (.018) 0.182
Western red cedar 100 5200 (35.9) 0.192 1.59 (.011) 0.229
NOTES
1)
Data are based on class minimum circumferences at the tip and at 6 feet (1.8m) from the butt and linear
taper between these points.
2)
Values must be adjusted using the appropriate factors from Table C.4 and C.5.
3)
37
ANSI O5.1-2002
Table C. 4 - Correction factors for pole strength and stiffness

(ki factors for equations 2 and 3)
MOR and MOE
Kiln drying: 0.90

Boultonizing: 0.90
Steaming conditioning: 0.85
(southern pine only)
Table C.5 - Height-effect correction factors for MOR
Species Mean COV
Southern pine (1 – 0.176h1)) (1+2.072h1))

Douglas-fir 1.0 1.0
(coastal) 1.0
Western red cedar 1.0 1.0
1.0
1) h = X / L
where
X is the distance above groundline for which
location the MOR is computed;
L is the total aboveground length of the pole.
38
ANSI O5.1-2002
Annex D
(normative)
D Requirements for consideration of foreign species into O5.1

D.1 Scope
This requirement covers all poles harvested outside the United States and Canada and not presently
listed in ANSI O5.1. Information must be submitted demonstrating that the material properties of the
species do not vary within geographic range of the species. Full-scale evaluation of poles should be
performed on material that has been subjected to the mitigation requirements specified in the United
States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) regulations.
D.2 Requirements
1. SPECIES: Must provide the botanical name and the common name.
2. LOCATION: Describe in detail the location material will come from. At a minimum it must include
country of origin and boundaries.
3. SPECIES Species verification must accompany the data package. The verification must be done
VERIFICATION: microscopically by an independent third party or an alternative must be submitted to the
subcommittee for approval. The independent third party must be knowledgeable in forest
anatomy (i.e., government forest products lab, university lab, or other qualified
organization).
4. USE: List all standards, both foreign and United States, where the proposed species is
presently approved for structural use.
5. MATERIAL Identify all material requirements that differ from ANSI O5.1 (i.e. spiral grain, knots, ring
REQUIREMENTS: knots, etc.).
6. MANUFACTURING: Provide information on the effect of manufacturing on the strength of the wood, including
seasoning, steaming, and kiln drying.
7. FULL-SCALE Full-scale structural evaluation testing shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM D-
EVALUATION: 1036 (latest edition). Data previously attained by alternative test methods and/or
proposed alternative methods of full-scale testing shall be accepted provided it is
reviewed and determined to be equivalent to ASTM D-1036 (latest edition) by the O5
Committee. In that regard, prior data must include full-scale pole bending strength data
and a detailed description of the testing procedure. Proposed alternative evaluation
methods must include a complete description of the test procedures and comply with
sample collection methods as outlined in ASTM D-1036. Species qualification testing
shall include the full range of sizes in accordance with ANSI O5.1, or include only those
predominant sizes anticipated to be supplied. Sample sizes shall be sufficient to support
a standard error no greater than 10% on the estimate of the lower 5% tolerance value in
accordance with ASTM 2915 section 3.4.3.2.
8. ENGINEERING The full-scale evaluations and fiber stress calculations must be reviewed by an
CERTIFICATION: independent third party with a professional engineer’s certification. The engineer must be
registered in the U.S. or Canada and be experienced in timber mechanics. Full-length
break tests and strength data -- modulus of rupture at break point (MORBP) and modulus
of rupture at ground line (MORGL) -- must accompany the professional engineer’s
certification.
9. SOURCE An independent third-party certification verifying the source of the wood must be provided.
CERTIFICATION: The proponent shall describe how the source of each pole will be controlled and assured.
Each shipment or lot must be certified.
39
ANSI O5.1-2002
1. Receipt of data package: The data package meeting all the requirements listed above, will be
sent to the chairman of the O5 Committee.
2. Review of the data: The chairman will appoint a review committee of not less than three (3)
members of the O5 Committee to review the data and provide the general committee with a
summary. The appointed members must be familiar with the requirements, have working
knowledge, and be proficient in reviewing this type of data. One member must be chosen from
each of the following categories: 1) user, 2) producer, and 3) general interest. The chairman of
the O5 Committee will provide the review committee with procedural guidelines for the review,
including time frame, requests for additional information, etc.
3. Summary Report: At the conclusion of the review, a Summary Report will be sent to the O5
chairman. The information, including both the data package and the summary, will be sent to all
members of the committee for review, discussion and vote at the next meeting.
40
ANSI O5.1-2002
Annex E
(informative)
E Bibliography
Bodig, J.; Goodman, J. R.; Phillips, G. E.: Fagan, G. B. Wood pole properties – Review and
recommendations for design resistance data, Volume 2: Douglas-fir data. Electric Power Research
Institute, Palo Alto, CA 1986.
Bodig, J.; Goodman, J. R.; Brooks, R. T. Wood pole properties-Review and recommendations for design
resistance data, Volume 3: Western red cedar data and size effect. Electric Power Research Institute,
Palo Alto, CA 1986.
Phillips, G. E.; Bodig, J.; Goodman, J. R. Wood pole properties – Review and recommendations for
design resistance data, Volume 1: Background and southern pine data. Electric Research Institute, Palo
Alto, CA 1985 .
REA Bulletin 1724E-200, Design manual for high voltage transmission lines. Department of Agriculture,
Washington. DC; 1992.4
41
ANSI O5.1-2002
Annex F
(informative)
F Acronyms & Abbreviations

ANSI American National Standards Institute
APHIS Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
ATIS Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions
COV Coefficients of Variation
MOE Modulus of Elasticity
MOR Modulus of Rupture
MORBP Modulus of Rupture at Break Point
MORGL Modulus of Rupture at Ground Line
NDE Nondestructive Evaluation
RBD Reliability-Based Design
42

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AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

American National Standard for Wood Products -

Specifications and Dimensions

Problem Solvers to the Telecommunications Industry

Copyright © 2002 by Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions

Printed in the United States of America.

American National Standard for Wood Poles

Specifications and Dimensions

Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions

Approved March 6, 2002

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

Name of Representative Name of Representative

National Rural Electric Cooperative James Carter

Northwest Pole & Piling Shippers John Sears

Name of Representative Name of Representative

Western Wood Preservers Institute Randy Baileys

Williamette Industries Wayne Tjoelker

1 SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................................................................. 1

5 MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4

A DESIGN PRACTICE ................................................................................................................................................................................... 31

B GROUNDLINE STRESSES ........................................................................................................................................................................ 32

C RELIABILITY BASED DESIGN .................................................................................................................................................................. 33

F ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................................................................................................. 42

American National Standard

Specifications and Dimensions

Modification of the requirements may also be

In addition, when the theoretical point of maximum

Both the application heights of the applied bending 2 Normative references

3 Definitions 3.8 decay, advanced (or typical): The older

3.11 face of pole: The concave side of greatest

wood hack into the sapwood, where healing has not

3.20 sap stain: A discoloration of the sapwood, 4 Pole classes

3.23 scar, turpentine cat face: A depression in

5.1.2.3 Kiln drying

5.1.2.2 Boulton drying temperature

has a maximum moisture content not exceeding 25

5.1.3 Solvent recovery

Hollow pith centers in the tops or butts and in knots

The average rate of growth measured on the butt in

Exception: Poles with 4 and 5 rings per inch (2.5cm)

Type II “decayed knots” are permitted.

The outer 1-inch (2.5cm) of all poles shall be free

No pole shall have a scar or turpentine cat face

Shakes in the butt surface that are not closer than 2

5.4.11 Splits and checks

5.4.9 Shape 5.4.11.1 In the top

5.4.10 Spiral grain

Poles are classed while in the green condition.

6.2.2 Circumference 7.2 Sawing

6.3 Classification Completely overgrown knots, rising more than 1 inch

On all poles, no patch of inner bark more than 1 inch

arrangement and order of the code letters and figures

Poles are not acceptable if they contain indentations

class is still required to be not less than the

Table 1 - Designated Fiber Stress for Wood Utility Poles1)

Group B (Boulton drying)

Group C (steam conditioning)

Group D (kiln drying)

9 Fiber stress height effect