June 1, 2012

TO: PARTIES INTERESTED IN NAILS

SUBJECT: Proposed Revisions to the Acceptance Criteria for Nails and Spikes,
Subject AC116-0612-R1 (EL/JS)

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We are seeking your comments on proposed revisions to the subject acceptance criteria,
as presented in the enclosed draft. The proposed revisions are being posted on the
ICC-ES web site for 30 days of public comment, to help us prepare for placing proposed
revisions to AC116 on the agenda for the October 2012 Evaluation Committee hearing.
The enclosed criteria draft only addresses the 2012 International Building Code® (IBC)
and 2012 International Residential Code® (IRC). Our intention is to leave the current
edition of AC116 on the ICC-ES website for use in evaluating nails under earlier editions
of the IBC and IRC. When the issues discussed in Comment 15 are resolved, we will
propose further revisions to bring the requirements for recognition under all applicable
codes together in one document. The proposed revisions are described below:

1. We propose deleting the term “spike” from the criteria and replacing “fastener” with
“nail” throughout AC116. Neither current report holders nor applicants have sought
recognition of spikes, as defined in Tables 53-56 of ASTM F1667-05. Therefore, to
streamline the criteria, we are proposing to delete the word “spike” throughout the
criteria and in the title of the criteria. In the same vein, we are proposing to replace
“fastener” with “nail” throughout the criteria. If an applicant’s fastener is not a nail,
AC116 is not the applicable criteria.

2. We are proposing a slightly different approach to defining which nails need to be

tested for connection strengths and which can be addressed by the equations in the
NDS. Currently, AC116 makes a distinction between “commodity” and “proprietary”
nails and generally indicates that testing is needed for proprietary nails, but not for
commodity nails. This is problematic for at least a couple of reasons. For one
thing, nails with specified bending yield strengths higher than what is specified in
Table S1.1 of ASTM F1667 are considered proprietary. However, the yield mode
equations in the NDS may still be applicable, so lateral connection testing might not
be required. On the other hand, some of the nails that meet the definition for
commodity nails are not expected to be used in engineered connections. For
instance, ASTM F1667 provides dimensions for common nails manufactured from
aluminum and copper. However, the NDS only addresses steel nails.
AC116-0612-R1 2

To better characterize the types of nails that can be recognized in ICC-ES

evaluation reports, we propose using the terms “non-structural commodity nails”,
“structural commodity nails” and “structural proprietary nails”. Proposed definitions
for these terms are included in the proposed criteria.

3. We are proposing to clarify the scope of the criteria (Section 1.2), as follows:
a. We are proposing to clarify the types of nails that can be evaluated under
AC116.
b. We are proposing to clarify which types of connections are addressed by
AC116.

4. We are proposing to expand the elements of the product description that are
required by Section 2.1, to ensure a more complete understanding of the product.
Since there are many types of nails that are addressed in ASTM F1667, we are
asking that the Part Identification Number (PIN) for commodity nails be provided.
This will make it easier for staff to reference the applicable dimensions when
comparing the manufacturers’ specifications against the requirements of ASTM
F1667.

5. Throughout AC116 there are distinct requirements for nails with specified bending
yield strengths which are greater than those prescribed in IBC Section 2303.6.
Whenever IBC Section 2303.6 is referenced, Tables S1.1 and S1.2 of ASTM F1667
are parenthetically referenced also. However, Table S1.2 of ASTM F1667 gives
minimum bending yield strengths for hardened nails, which are not addressed in
IBC Section 2303.6. Furthermore, reference to Table S1.1 is not needed (it is
redundant) and may not be appropriate, since Table S1.1 of ASTM F1667
addresses nails with larger diameters than those addressed in IBC Section 2303.6.
Therefore, we propose removing the references to Table S1.1 of ASTM F1667 and
modifying the way that Table S1.2 of ASTM F1667 is referenced, as shown in the
enclosed criteria draft.

6. We are proposing to reorganize Section 3.0 of AC116, to clarify the requirements

for commodity nails, commodity nails used in structural applications and other
structural nails. We are also clarifying requirements based on whether the nails are
hardened or unhardened nails, and based on the type of corrosion-resistant
coatings that are used.

7. We are proposing to require testing for dowel-bearing strength only when the
following conditions both occur:

a. Dowel bearing strength is needed for the calculation of reference lateral design
values.
AC116-0612-R1 3

b. The nails deviate from the nails covered in the NDS, i.e., the nails are not
smooth shank nails, have bending yield strengths which differ from IBC Section
2303.6 and/or are less than 0.099 inch in diameter.

8. Currently, AC116 requires ductility testing for stainless steel nails, hardened nails,
and proprietary nails, but not for ordinary carbon steel nails. Our records indicate
that this was based on a comment that was received when AC116 was previously
revised. In part, that comment indicated that a similar change to ASTM F1667 was
being balloted and was expected to be accepted. However, it does not appear that
this revision materialized, as Section 7.1 of ASTM F1667-05 (referenced in the
2012 IBC) still requires ductility testing for nearly all nails address in the standard
(unhardened nails with deformed shanks are exempted). Based on this, and the
difficulty in determining which nails should truly be considered “proprietary”, we
propose to require that ductility testing be required for all nails.

9. Currently, AC116 requires testing for bending yield strength, but does not stipulate
conditions of acceptance, although they have been implied. We are proposing a
revision to clarify the requirements for bending yield strength.

10. We are proposing revisions to AC116 to clarify when lateral resistance testing is
required (see Section 3.7 of the proposed criteria). Rather than rely on definitions
of commodity, proprietary or structural nails, we have tried to focus on
characteristics that have or have not been addressed by the NDS.

11. We propose adding requirements for measuring the specific gravity and moisture
content of wood samples used in lateral resistance and withdrawal testing, similar
to AC233.

12. We propose adding a requirement that steel side plates used in lateral resistance
tests be measured for base-metal thickness and tested for tensile strength. This is
typically required for steel sheet and plate in other ICC-ES acceptance criteria. A
related revision, to require that test results be adjusted based on the measured
thickness and tensile strength, is being proposed for Section 4.2.3.

13. We are proposing revisions to AC116 to clarify when withdrawal testing is required
(see Section 3.8 of the proposed criteria). Rather than rely on definitions of
commodity, proprietary or structural nails, we have tried to focus on characteristics
that have or have not been addressed by the NDS.

14. Substantial revisions to Section 4.0 are proposed to coordinate with the proposed
revisions to Section 3.0.

15. Section 5.0 of AC116 is intended to serve a purpose similar to that of the ICC-ES
Acceptance Criteria for Wood Screws Used in Horizontal Diaphragms, Vertical
Shear Walls and Braced Walls (AC120). An industry task group has been meeting
and providing input on AC120, which was most recently revised in February 2012.
AC116-0612-R1 4

This task group is still working on several issues related to AC120, and AC120 has
not yet been updated to address the 2012 IBC and IRC. Given the similarities
between evaluations under AC120 and evaluations under Section 5.0 of AC116, we
would like to see a close coordination between these two acceptance criteria. This
may result in Section 5.0 of AC116 referring directly to AC120, or may mean that
Section 5.0 of AC116 will be significantly revised to mimic AC120. Since AC120 is
still being developed, we are not yet prepared to propose revisions to Section 5.0 of
AC116. However, we do not feel this should prohibit report holders and applicants
from obtaining evaluation reports addressing the 2012 IBC and IRC, when the
scope of evaluation does not include substitution in code-prescribed shear walls
and diaphragms. Therefore, in the proposed criteria, Section 5.0 is only being
maintained as a place holder for future development. The current edition of AC116,
addressing the 2009 and 2006 IBC and IRC, will be concurrently available on our
website, primarily for reference. While new applicants could follow Section 5.0 of
the current edition of AC116 when seeking to obtain an evaluation report under the
2009 and 2006 I-codes, such applicants should be advised that the requirements
for recognition under the these earlier codes may change once the requirements for
recognition under the 2012 I-codes are finalized and the two editions of AC116 are
merged back into one document.

16. We are proposing revisions requiring that technical drawings of the nails be
included in the submitted quality documentation. This reflects our standard practice
when evaluating fasteners.

17. Neither the NDS nor AC116 address pull-through capacity of nails. We would
appreciate input on how this should be addressed in ICC-ES evaluation reports.

While the proposed revisions to AC116 appear extensive, they are primarily intended to
be consistent with the latest code requirements, to clarify requirements and to coordinate
with other ICC-ES acceptance criteria. The easier the criteria is to follow, while being
technically sound, the more efficient we can be when evaluating nails. Your assistance
in achieving this goal is appreciated.

If they are of interest, please review the proposed revisions and send us your comments
at the earliest opportunity. At the end of the 30-day comment period, we will post on our
web site the correspondence we have received. We hope your comments will help us
prepare a final set of revisions for the Evaluation Committee to consider at a future
hearing.

To submit your comments, please use the form on the web site and attach any letters or
other materials. If you would like an explanation of the “alternate criteria process,” under
which we are soliciting comments, this too is available on the ICC-ES web site.

Please do not try to communicate directly with any Evaluation Committee member about
a criteria under consideration, as committee members cannot accept such
communications.
AC116-0612-R1 5

Thank you for your interest and your contributions. If you have any questions, please
contact me at (800) 423-6587, extension 4315, or Jason Smart, Staff Engineer, at
extension 5692. You may also reach us by e-mail at es@icc-es.org.

Yours very truly,

Elyse G. Levy, S.E.

Senior Staff Engineer

EGL/raf

Enclosure

cc: Evaluation Committee

www.icc-es.org | (800) 423-6587 | (562) 699-0543 A Subsidiary of the International Code Council ®

PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR

NAILS AND SPIKES

AC116

Proposed June 2012

Compliance date July 1, 2013

Compliance date for this proposal to be determined

Previously revised February 2012, July 2010, October 2006, February 2005,
October 2004, July 2001, July 1997 and April 1997

PREFACE
Evaluation reports issued by ICC Evaluation Service, LLC (ICC-ES), are based upon performance features of
the International family of codes. (Some reports may also reference older code families such as the BOCA
®
National Codes, the Standard Codes, and the Uniform Codes.) Section 104.11 of the International Building Code
reads as follows:

The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any materials or to
prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code,
provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or
method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed
design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the
material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that
prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.

ICC-ES may consider alternate criteria for report approval, provided the report applicant submits data
demonstrating that the alternate criteria are at least equivalent to the criteria set forth in this document, and
otherwise demonstrate compliance with the performance features of the codes. ICC-ES retains the right to refuse
to issue or renew any evaluation report, if the applicable product, material, or method of construction is such that
either unusual care with its installation or use must be exercised for satisfactory performance, or if
malfunctioning is apt to cause injury or unreasonable damage.

NOTE: The Preface for ICC-ES acceptance criteria was revised in July 2011 to reflect changes in policy.

Acceptance criteria are developed for use solely by ICC-ES for purpose of issuing ICC-ES evaluation reports.
 PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR
NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose: The purpose of this acceptance criteria
is to establish requirements for nails and spikes to be
recognized in an ICC Evaluation Service, LLC (ICC-ES),
evaluation report under the 2009 and 20062012
International Building Code® (IBC), and the 2009 and 2006
2012 International Residential Code® (IRC) and the 1997
Uniform Building Code™ (UBC). Bases of recognition are
IBC Section 104.11, and IRC Section R104.11 and UBC
Section 104.2.8.
This criteria is needed to clarify what requirements
must be met to show compliance with the code-referenced
standard for nails, and is also needed to establish
requirements for justifying the load-carrying capacity of
nails that are not addressed in the NDS.
1.2 Scope: This criteria establishes minimum
requirements for the following types of nails:
 Non-structural commodity nails
 Structural commodity nails
 Structural proprietary nails
This criteria establishes when connection testing is
required and when connection strength must be calculated
in accordance with the NDS. Connections that can be
qualified are limited to and spikes used in connections
where the main member of the connection (typically the
thicker member) is wood or structural engineered wood
and the side member of the connection (typically the
thinner member) is wood, structural engineered wood or
any engineering materialsteel.
Requirements include provisions for dimensions,
material properties, installation and design values.
Qualification for connections with side members that are
not engineering materials, as defined in Section 1.4.3, is
outside the scope of this criteria. The reference values for
lateral resistance and withdrawal are recognized by the
codes listed in Section 1.3 of this criteria. Where this
criteria references code sections of each of the various
codes, the applicable section is the section of the code
under which the system is being evaluated, unless noted
otherwise. Standard editions of the NDS, SDPWS and
ASTM D 1761 applicable to each code are summarized in
Table 1. This criteria addresses determination of reference
withdrawal and lateral design values.
1.3 Codes and Referenced Standards:
1.3.1 2009 and 20062012 International Building
Code® (IBC), International Code Council.
1.3.2 2009 and 20062012 International Residential
Code™ (IRC), International Code Council.
1.3.3 1997 Uniform Building Code™ (UBC).
1.3.3 ASTM A153-05, Specification for Zinc Coating
(Hot-dip) on Iron and Steel Hardware, ASTM International.
1.3.4 ASTM A370-11a, Standard Test Methods and
Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel Products,
ASTM International.
2
1.3.5 1.3.4 ASTM A641-09a, Standard Specification
for Zinc-coated (Galvanized) Carbon Steel Wire, ASTM
International.
1.3.6 1.3.5 ASTM D1761-06, Standard Test Method
for Mechanical Fasteners in Wood, ASTM International.
1.3.7 ASTM D2395-07a, Standard Test Method for
Specific Gravity of Wood and Wood-Based Materials,
ASTM International.
1.3.8 1.3.6 ASTM D2915-10, Standard Practice for
Sampling and Data-Analysis for Structural Wood and
Wood-Based Products, ASTM International.
1.3.9 ASTM D4442-07, Standard Test Methods for
Direct Moisture Content Measurement of Wood and
Wood-Base Materials, ASTM International.
1.3.10 ASTM D4444-08, Standard Test Methods for
Use and Calibration of Hand-Held Moisture Meters, ASTM
International.
1.3.7 ASTM D5764-97a (2007), Standard Test
Method for Evaluating Dowel-Bearing Strength of Wood
and Wood-Based Products, ASTM International.
1.3.11 1.3.8 ASTM E18-08b, Standard Test Method
for Rockwell Hardness of Metallic Materials, ASTM
International.
1.3.12 1.3.9 ASTM F1575-03 (2008), Standard Test
Method for Determining Bending Yield Moment of Nails,
ASTM International.
1.3.13 1.3.10 ASTM F1667-05, Standard
Specification for Driven Fasteners: Nails, Spikes, and
Staples, ASTM International.
1.3.14 1.3.11 AF&PA National Design Specification
(NDS) for Wood Construction, American Forest & Paper
Association, 2012 Edition. (Refer to Table 1 of this
acceptance criteria for edition date.).
1.3.12 ANSI/AF&PA Special Design Provisions for
Wind and Seismic (SDPWS), American Forest & Paper
Association. (Refer to Table 1 of this acceptance criteria
for edition date.).
1.4 Definitions:
1.4.1 Non-structural Commodity FastenersNails:
Smooth shank, ring shank and screw shank fasteners, and
hardened fasteners of all recognized geometries Nails that
comply with the material requirements, minimum
dimensions and tolerances in ASTM F1667 and are not
intended for use in engineered construction.
1.4.2 Structural Commodity Nails: Nails that
comply with the material requirements, minimum
dimensions and tolerances in ASTM F1667 and that are
intended for use in engineered construction.
1.4.3 Structural Proprietary FastenersNails:
Fasteners that are characterized by one or more of these
features Nails that deviate from ASTM F1667, and are
intended for use in engineered construction.
• Shank geometry not considered in ASTM F1667;
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)
• Bending yield strengths deviate from the values
in IBC Section 2303.6 (Tables S1.1 and S1.2 of
ASTM F1667);
• Commodity fastener used in a manner not
consistent with the NDS, such as fasteners
installed in connection material that is not wood
or a grade of structural steel.
1.4.4 Structural Engineered Wood: For the
purposes of this criteria, structural engineered wood
includes products such as structural glued-laminated
timber, wood structural panels, and structural composite
lumber complying with IBC Section 2303.
1.4.5 Engineering Material: Material with published,
code-recognized dowel bearing strengths. Examples
include sawn lumber, structural composite lumber, wood
structural panels and metals.
2.0 BASIC INFORMATION:
2.1 General:
2.1 2.1.1 Description: A description of the nail shall
be submitted which includes the following: product
designation; raw wire specification including applicable
standard, temper, coating level, etc.; coatings applied after
nail is formed; mechanical properties of the manufactured
nail, such as minimum specified bending yield strength
and hardness (for hardened nails); Part Identification
Number (PIN) in accordance with Section 4.1 of ASTM
F1667, as applicable; shank style (smooth, deformed,
etc.); Nail and spike description shall be reported,
including designation, wire specification, shank style or
type according to ASTM F 1667, if appropriate, and
dimensions such as shank diameter(s), head diameter,
length of the tapered tip, and overall fastener nail length.
For proprietary deformed shank fasteners nails, a
description of the deformations shall be reported and shall
include major and minor diameters, thread pitch, thread
length, and number of flutes, where applicable.
2.2 Packaging and Identification: The method of
packaging and identifying the nails and spikes shall be
reported and shall comply with Section 12 of ASTM
F1667. The evaluation report number shall occur appear
on the packaging. For commodity nails, the Part
Identifying Number (PIN) described in Section 4.1 of
ASTM F1667 shall be included in the product
identification. In addition, fFor proprietary structural
commodity nails and spikes structural proprietary nails, the
minimum specified bending yield strength shall be noted
on the packaging.
2.3 Testing Laboratories: Testing laboratories shall
comply with Section 2.0 of the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria
for Test Reports (AC85) and Section 4.2 of the ICC-ES
Rules of Procedure for Evaluation Reports.
2.4 Test Reports: Test reports shall comply with
AC85. These reports shall include sample selection
procedure, test specimen preparation, test procedures,
and results of all tests. Where indicated, photographs
must be included in the reports.
2.5 Product Sampling:
2.5.1 Test Specimens without Third-party Quality
Control Inspections: Sampling of the nails and spikes for
tests under this criteria shall comply with Section 3.2 of
AC85, except as noted in Section 2.5.2.
3
2.5.2 Test Specimens with Third-party Quality
Control Inspections: For tests under this criteria,
sSampling of steel nails and spikes having specified
minimum bending yield strengths that deviate from the
values in IBC Section 2303.6 (Tables S1.1 and S1.2 of
ASTM F 1667) and sampling of hardened steel nails
having specified minimum bending yield strengths that
deviate from the values in Table S1.2 of ASTM F1667 for
tests under this criteria shall comply with Section 3.1 of
AC85.
3.0 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TEST
METHODS
3.1 Scope: All fasteners and single-fastener connections
shall be tested in accordance with Sections 3.2 through
3.10 of this criteria, as applicable. Lateral design and
withdrawal design values for proprietary fasteners shall be
determined in accordance with Section 4.3 and Section
4.4, respectively, of this criteria. Lateral design and
withdrawal design values for commodity fasteners shall be
determined in accordance with Section 4.5 of this criteria.
3.1.1 Dowel Bearing Test: Dowel bearing strength
testing described in Section 3.8 shall be determined for
the wood or connection member when:
• Lateral resistance testing is required by Section
3.1.2.
• Wire diameter is less than 0.099 inch (2.5 mm).
• The connection material is not a wood-based
material recognized in the NDS or a grade of
structural steel.
3.1.2 Lateral Resistance Test:
3.1.2.1 Section 3.9, Lateral Resistance Test, shall be
required for nails and spikes when:
• Penetration into the main member is less than
6D.
• Diameter is less than 0.099 inch (2.5 mm).
• The nail or spike is a proprietary fastener.
3.1.2.2 When lateral resistance testing is conducted
as required by Section 3.1.2.1, the reference lateral design
values shall be determined by the calculation method
according to Section 4.3.1 or by the empirical method
according to Section 4.3.2. If the lateral resistance test
data corroborate yield modes other than those recognized
by the yield mode equations of the NDS, the reference
lateral design values shall be determined by the empirical
method according to Section 4.3.2.
3.1.3 Withdrawal Test: Section 3.10, Withdrawal
Test, shall be required for proprietary fasteners other than
smooth shank fasteners, and ring- and screw-shank
fasteners, and hardened fasteners with ring- and screw-
shank geometries.
3.1 Materials: For structural and non-structural
commodity nails, the steel, stainless steel, copper or
aluminum shall comply with Section 6 of ASTM F1667, as
applicable. For structural proprietary nails, the nail material
shall comply with the manufacturer’s specifications. For
structural commodity nails and structural proprietary nails,
the material shall be formed from a structural grade of wire
(i.e. one having established mechanical properties).
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)
3.2 Zinc-coated Steel Wire Corrosion Resistance:
In accordance with IBC Sections 2304.9.5.1 and
2304.9.5.3, nails used in preservative-treated or fire-
retardant-treated wood shall be hot-dip galvanized steel or
stainless steel. When nails are formed from zinc-coated
(galvanized) carbon steel wire, the zZinc-coated steel wire
shall be tested as required by, and found to comply with,
the Supplementary Requirements of ASTM A641, Class 1,
coating weight. The test sample shall consist of at least 12
inches (305 mm) of shank length, but 24 inches (610 mm)
of shank length is preferred. When nails are hot-dip
galvanized after forming, the nails shall be tested as
required by ASTM A153 and found to be in compliance
with Table 1 for Class D coatings. Nails with corrosion
resistant coatings other than hot-dip galvanizing may be
qualified for use in corrosive environments in accordance
with the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for Corrosion-
resistant Fasteners and Evaluation of Corrosion Effects of
Wood Treatment Chemicals (AC257).
3.3 Hardened Steel Wire or Nails: Hardened steel
wire or nails shall be heat-treated and, when required,
found to comply with Section 3.5 of these criteria. In
addition, the Rockwell Hardness of C 37 must be achieved
tested for Rockwell C hardness in accordance with ASTM
E18, and shall conform to the manufacturer’s
specifications. based on a sample of at least seven
specimens, unless otherwise specified in the standard. A
minimum of seven specimens shall be tested.
3.4 Stainless Steel Wire and Nails: Stainless steel
wire or nails shall comply with Section 6.2 of ASTM F
1667.Dimensions and Tolerances: For commodity nails,
dimensions shall comply with ASTM F1667. For all nails,
dimensional tolerances shall comply with Section 8.2 of
ASTM F1667. Representative nails shall be measured by
the testing laboratory to verify compliance with the
manufacturer’s specifications. A minimum of five
specimens shall be measured.
3.5 Ductility: Stainless steel nails, proprietary, and
hardened steel All nails shall be tested in accordance with,
and shall comply with the requirements for ductility in
Section 7.1 of ASTM F1667, based on a minimum of
seven specimens.
3.6 Coatings: Coatings other than zinc shall be
described.
3.6 3.7 Bending Yield Strength: For all structural
nails, bBending yield strength, Fyb, of nails and spikes
shall be evaluated according to ASTM F1575. Testing for
unhardened, smooth shank nails shall be done on either
the finished nail or specimens of drawn wire stock. Tests
for hardened nails and deformed shank nails shall be done
on the finished nail products. Test specimens shall be
randomly selected to represent the parent population of
fastenersnails in accordance with the objectives of the test
program. At least 15 replicates shall be tested.
Test reports shall include:
• Calculation of Fyb for each nail according to the
Annex of ASTM F1575.
• Average calculated bending yield strength.
• Other requirements as described in Section 11 of
ASTM F1575.
4
At a minimum, bending yield strength for unhardened
nails shall comply with IBC Section 2303.6 and bending
yield strength for hardened nails shall comply with Table
S1.2 of ASTM F1667. When the manufacturer specifies
minimum bending yield strengths which deviate from IBC
Section 2303.6 or Table S1.2 of ASTM F1667, as
applicable, the tested bending yield strength shall comply
with the manufacturer’s specifications.
3.7 3.8 Dowel Bearing Strength: When reference
lateral design values are determined by calculation and
confirmed by testing in accordance with Section 4.2.1, the
dowel bearing strength of the fastener shall be
established. Dowel bearing strengths for smooth shank
nails, with a diameter of 0.099 inch (2.5 mm) or greater,
and specified bending yield strengths complying with IBC
Section 2303.6, shall be determined in accordance with
Table 11.3.3 of the NDS. For all other nails, Ddowel
bearing strength of wood-based materials shall be
determined in accordance with ASTM D5764, on a
minimum of 15 specimens per wire diameter. Dowel
bearing strength shall be determined for each species of
lumber for which recognition is desired; as an alternative,
species may be grouped, with tests conducted on the
species with the least specific gravity in each group. For
nonwood engineering materials, dowel bearing capacity
shall be determined by an approved method.
3.8 3.9 Lateral Resistance Test:
3.8.1 Applicability: Lateral resistance testing is
required for the following types of structural nails:
1. Common, box, or sinker nails with minimum
specified bending yield strengths which deviate from IBC
Section 2303.6.
2. Post-frame ring shank nails with minimum
specified bending yield strengths which deviate from Table
S1.2 of ASTM F1667.
3. Common, box, sinker or post-frame ring shank
nails with installation details that deviate from the NDS,
such as penetration in the main member of less than 6D.
4. Nails with shank geometries other than smooth
or post-frame ring shank, described in Appendix L5 of the
NDS.
3.8.2 Test Method: For connections between wood
members and connections between wood-based materials
and other engineering materials, lLateral resistance tests
shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM D1761
procedures. The lateral resistance tests shall be
conducted on a minimum of 15 specimens of each species
and material for which recognition is desired, or, as an
alternative, species may be grouped, with tests conducted
on the species with the least specific gravity in each
group. FastenersNails shall be driven into wood
conditioned in accordance with Section 9.1 of ASTM
D1761 or with the planned end use. The average Fyb of
the fasteners nails as determined in accordance with
Section 3.73.6 shall be within 10 percent of the specified
Fyb. The ultimate load and 75 percent of the proportional
limit load shall be determined for each tested connection.
For proprietary fasteners that have reference lateral
design capacities calculated by using Section 4.3.2 of this
criteria, testing for representative material combinations
shall use a minimum of 15 specimens and target 5 percent
precision with a 75 percent confidence for the mean
capacity, but testing more than 40 specimens shall not be
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)
required. The target number of test specimens is
determined by using ASTM D 2915, equation 1.
3.8.3 Sample Size: When the reference lateral
design value will be determined by calculation, and
confirmed by the testing, as described in Section 4.2.1, a
minimum of 15 specimens shall be tested.
When the reference lateral design value will be
determined empirically through testing, as described in
Section 4.2.2, the number of samples needed to achieve a
precision of 5 percent at a 75 percent confidence interval
(determined in accordance with ASTM D2915, Equation 1)
shall be tested, The sample size shall be a minimum of 15
specimens and need not exceed 40 specimens.
3.8.4 Specific Gravity and Moisture Content: The
specific gravity of each wood member used in the
connection tests shall be determined in accordance with
ASTM D2395, on an oven-dry weight and volume basis.
One sample specific gravity calculation shall be provided
within the submitted test reports.
Wood samples shall be conditioned to reach
equilibrium with a moisture content of 10 to 14 percent
when testing for dry in-service conditions. The moisture
content of the wood samples shall be determined in
accordance with ASTM D4442 or D4444 (handheld
moisture meters). One sample moisture content
calculation shall be provided within the submitted test
reports.
3.8.5 Steel Plate Characteristics: The base-metal
thickness and tensile strength, Fu, of the steel side plate
shall be determined using coupons from the same steel
sheet or plate used to make the side member or by mill
certification. Base metal thickness shall be determined by
measuring the base-metal thickness of representative
steel side plates. Tensile testing shall comply with ASTM
A370.
3.9 3.10 Withdrawal Test:
3.9.1 Applicability: Since the NDS provides a
means to calculate withdrawal values for smooth shank
and ring shank nails only, structural nails with other shank
types shall be tested for withdrawal resistance.
3.9.2 Test Method: Withdrawal tests shall be
conducted in accordance with ASTM D1761 procedures,
on a minimum of 15 specimens of each species and
material for which recognition is desired. FastenersNails
shall be driven into wood conditioned in accordance with
Section 9.1 of ASTM D1761. The ultimate load shall be
determined for the tested fastenernail. For proprietary
fasteners that have reference withdrawal capacities
calculated by using Section 4.4 of this criteria, testing shall
use a minimum of 15 specimens for representative
species (or species group) and materials and target 5
percent precision with a 75 percent confidence for the
mean capacity, but testing more than 40 specimens shall
not be required. The target number of test specimens is
determined by using ASTM D 2915, equation 1.
3.9.3 Sample Size: The number of samples needed
to achieve a precision of 5 percent at a 75 percent
confidence interval (determined in accordance with ASTM
D2915, Equation 1) shall be tested, The sample size shall
be a minimum of 15 specimens and need not exceed 40
specimens.
5
3.9.4 Specific Gravity and Moisture Content: See
Section 3.8.4.
4.0 ANALYSIS
4.1 Bending Yield Strength: Compliance with IBC
Section 2303.6 (Tables S1.1 and S1.2 of ASTM F 1667)
shall permit the use of the nail and spike connection tables
in the NDS or UBC Section 2318.3; and the yield mode
equations of the NDS shall be used regardless of the Fyb
compliance.
4.2 Dowel Bearing: For wood-based materials, the
mean dowel bearing test data shall be compared to the
published dowel bearing capacities in the NDS, and if
found to be not significantly different (significance level =
0.10), the NDS published values shall be used in Section
4.3. For other engineering materials, the mean dowel
bearing strength and standard deviation shall be reported
and used as appropriate in Section 4.3.
4.1 Reference Design Values for Nails addressed
in the NDS: When reference design values are to be
calculated in accordance with the NDS (i.e. connection
testing is not required by Section 3.8.1 or Section 3.9.1)
the evaluation report shall provide the reference design
values by referencing the NDS. Alternatively, at the report
applicant’s option, the reference design values may be
provided directly in the evaluation report. Calculations
used to determine the reference design values included in
the evaluation report shall be submitted.
4.2 4.3 Reference Lateral Design Values for Tested
Proprietary Fastener Connections: Reference lLateral
design values for nails of proprietary fasteners (normal
load duration) used in wood-to-wood or wood-to-other-
engineered-material connections shall be determined by
calculation, and confirmed by the test data, in accordance
with Section 4.3.14.2.1; or shall be determined directly by
the empirical method test data in accordance with Section
4.3.24.2.2.
4.2.1 4.3.1 Reference Lateral ResistanceDesign
Value–Calculation: The reference lateral design
reference values shall be calculated in accordance with
the NDS and shall not exceed 75 percent of the
proportional limit load, or the average ultimate load,
determined in accordance with Section 3.8, divided by a
factor of 3.2. The factor of 3.2 assumes a duration of load
of 1.6 and a maximum coefficient of variation (COV) of 15
percent. Where the COV is greater than 15 percent, the
calculated reference lateral load design value shall not
exceed:
( )
where:
Fall = Bound of calculated reference lateral load,
pounds (N).
COV = s/F = Coefficient of variation in a test series.
s = Standard deviation in a test series, pounds
(N).
F = Average ultimate load in test series, pounds
(N).
Where tests are done on species groups, reference
design values for each group shall be determined based
on applicable data for the tested species.
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)
When lateral design values from testing are less
than the calculated values, reference lateral design values
shall be determined in accordance with Section 4.2.2.
4.2.2 4.3.2 Reference Lateral ResistanceDesign
Value–Empirical: The reference lateral design value may
exceed the value calculated in accordance with Section
4.3.14.2.1, provided the empirically derived value is taken
as the average ultimate load divided by a factor of 5.
4.2.3 Adjustment of Test Values Based on Steel
Side Plate Properties: Test values for connections where
the side member is a steel plate shall be adjusted to
account for the measured or mill certified tensile strength
and base metal thickness of the steel. The adjustment
factor, Rs, shall be determined from the following equation:
( )( )( ) diaphragm and shear wall strength and stiffness values
where:
(Fuspec) = Minimum specified tensile strength of the
side plate steel, ksi.
(Futest) = Measured or mill certified tensile strength
of the side plate steel used in the test, ksi.
(tspec) = Specified minimum side plate base metal
thickness, inch.
(ttest) = Measured base metal thickness of tested
side plate, inch.
4.3 4.4 Reference Withdrawal Design Values for
Proprietary Fasteners Tested Connections: The
reference withdrawal design value (normal duration of
load) shall be determined based on the average ultimate
load test results described in Section 3.103.9 of these
criteria, divided by a factor of 5. Reference withdrawal
design values for fasteners with smooth round shanks
nails or post-frame ring shank nails and having diameters
equal to commodity fasteners those of nails addressed in
the NDS shall be limited to values listed in the NDS and
UBC Table 23-III-D. Where tests are done on species
groups, reference design values for each group are
determined based on applicable data for the tested
species.
4.5 Reference Lateral Design and Withdrawal Values
for Commodity Fastener Connections: These fasteners
may reference the tabulated values and appropriate tables
noted in the code. Reference lateral design values (normal
duration of load) of connections with smooth, ring, and
screw shank fasteners, and hardened fasteners of all
recognized shank geometries may be calculated using the
the NDS. Reference withdrawal design value of fasteners
may be calculated using:
W = 1380 G5/2 D
For SI: W = 243.4 G5/2 D
where:
W = Nail or spike withdrawal design value, pounds
per inch (N/mm) of penetration in the member
holding point.
G = Assigned specific gravity of the wood based
on oven dry weight and volume, according to
NDS Table 11.3.2A.
6
D = Shank diameter of the nail or spike, where
0.099 ≤ D ≤ 0.375 inch (2.51 ≤ D ≤ 9.53 mm)
for smooth shank wire nails and wire spikes;
and where 0.120 ≤ D ≤ 0.207 inch (3.05 ≤ D ≤
5.26 mm) for threaded nails; inches (mm).
4.6 Placement of Nails and Spikes: Placement of nails
and spikes shall conform to the NDS and UBC Section
2318.3, as applicable.
5.0 FASTENER SUBSTITUTION IN HORIZONTAL
DIAPHRAGM AND VERTICAL SHEAR WALLS NAIL
SUBSTITUTION AND QUALIFICATION IN
DIAPHRAGMS AND SHEAR WALLS:
Recognition of nails as substitutes for code-prescribed
nails in diaphragms and shear walls and qualification of
are not currently available under the 2012 IBC and IRC.
5.1 Scope: This section addresses additional
requirements for the acceptance of alternates to code-
prescribed fasteners for use in the horizontal diaphragm
and vertical shear wall conditions described in Sections
4.2 and 4.3 of the SDPWS, or Chapter 23 of the IBC or
UBC, as direct, one-to-one substitutes for said fasteners.
The horizontal diaphragms and vertical shear walls with
the alternate fastener will be assigned the allowable shear
value set forth in the SDPWS, IBC or UBC tables for the
referenced code-prescribed fastener. The test results shall
show that ultimate load for the alternate fastener
connection equals or exceeds the load of the referenced
code-prescribed fastener connection, that the slip for the
alternate fastener connection is less than or equal to the
slip for the code-prescribed fastener connection, and that
the alternate fastener can be installed in accordance with
the IBC or UBC without damaging the connected
materials. For vertical shear walls, the alternate fastener
shall comply with the requirements for ductility in Section
7.1 of ASTM F 1667 for the code specified fastener.
5.1.1 Recognition for Reduced Penetration Depths:
If recognition is sought for the use of alternate nails with
reduced nail penetration (i.e., penetration depths less than
the minimums specified in the diaphragm and shear wall
tables of the applicable code) in diaphragms or shear
walls, full-scale horizontal diaphragm and/or vertical shear
wall testing is required at the minimum nail penetration
depth for which recognition is sought. A qualification test
plan shall be submitted to ICC-ES prior to commencement
of testing.
5.2 Comparative Connection Testing:
5.2.1 Testing Requirements: Lateral load tests shall
be performed both on connections constructed using the
code-prescribed fasteners, and on connections
constructed using the nails to be recognized as alternates
to the code-prescribed fasteners. Lateral load tests shall
be conducted in accordance with ASTM D 1761 and
Sections 5.2.1.1 through 5.2.1.4.
5.2.1.1 Wood Material: The comparative tests shall
be conducted using nominal 2x sawn lumber compliant
with IBC Section 2303.1.1, and wood structural panels
compliant with IBC Section 2303.1.4. Comparative tests
shall be performed on each combination of lumber species
and wood structural panel type for which recognition is
sought, with the exception that recognition can be applied
to both rated sheathing and Structural I panels if rated
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)
sheathing panels are used in the tests in lieu of Structural I
grade panels. Analogously, if recognition is sought for use
with framing of various species groups having a range of
assigned specific gravities, tests need only be performed
using lumber having the minimum and maximum specific
gravities for which recognition is sought. The lumber
framing and wood structural panels shall be conditioned in
accordance with Section 9 of ASTM D 1761 prior to
assembling the test specimens. The moisture content of
the framing and wood structural panel members shall be
determined in accordance with ASTM D 4442 or ASTM
D4444. The specific gravity of the framing and wood
structural panel members shall be determined in
accordance with ASTM D 2395.
5.2.1.2 Nails: The code-prescribed nails shall be
smooth-shank, bright common nails of the penny-weight to
which the desired equivalency is to be established. The
proprietary fasteners shall be tested in the condition
intended for end-use in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. Manufacturer-applied coatings
need not be removed, with the exception that coatings
which enhance withdrawal resistance through adhesive
bonding between the fastener and the wood shall be
removed prior to specimen construction.
5.2.1.3 Test Specimen Construction: The test
specimens with the code-prescribed common nails shall
be constructed from the same wood structural panels and
wood framing members as the alternate nail specimens.
The test specimen shall be constructed for single shear
loading, such that the load is applied parallel to the face
grain of the plywood (or parallel to the face strands of the
OSB) and parallel to the grain of the supporting lumber.
The fasteners shall be driven flush to the face of the
sheathing material and into the narrow face of the wood
framing member.
5.2.1.4 Number of Test Specimens: The required
number of replicate specimens for each configuration shall
be the number needed to provide 5 percent precision with
75 percent confidence for the mean capacity, but no less
than 15.
5.2.2 Analysis and Conditions of Acceptance:
5.2.2.1 Load Capacity: The average ultimate load
for the alternate fastener shall be equal to or greater than
the ultimate load for the code-prescribed fastener.
5.2.2.2 Nail Slip: Load-slip curves shall be generated
from the load and lateral movement measurements in the
lateral load test report. The average load-slip curve for the
alternate fastener shall be compared to that of the code-
prescribed nail at all possible values of the fastener load
level Vn, which is calculated as follows:
( )( ) documentation and inspections shall be in accordance
where:
vs = Seismic nominal unit shear capacity of the
diaphragm or shear wall, as specified in the
applicable tables of SDPWS, pounds per foot.
s = Boundary spacing of sheathing fasteners within
the diaphragm or shear wall, inches.
7
Vn shall be evaluated using each combination of vs and
s for which equivalency recognition is sought. The average
slip of the alternate fastener shall be less than or equal to
that of the code-prescribed nail at the load levels
corresponding to each possible value of Vn.
5.2.2.3 Slip Function: For use in determining
diaphragm and shear wall deflections, a function for nail
slip, en, with respect to load shall be derived for alternate
fasteners to be used for attaching sheathing in horizontal
diaphragms and vertical shear walls. The equation shall
be compatible with those given in Table C4.2.2D of the
SDPWS Commentary, having the following form:
( )
where:
Vn = Lateral force on the nail, pounds (N).
a = The first constant.
b = The second constant
The constants, a and b, shall be determined by
performing a regression analysis on the average load-slip
curve for each nail type and connection configuration
tested.
5.3 Minimum Spacing and Edge Distance Test: This
test shall demonstrate that the alternate fastener can be
installed using the minimum fastener spacing and edge
distances specified for the applicable horizontal diaphragm
and vertical shear wall configurations described in Chapter
23 of the IBC or UBC, without any unusual splitting within
the sheathing or framing. The test shall be conducted on a
minimum of two specimens that consist of 2-by-4 Douglas
fir-larch framing, and sheathing material of the type and
thickness for which recognition is desired. Nails shall be
driven flush to the face of the sheathing material, and into
the wood framing member at the minimum spacing and
edge distances specified in the code tables. The nails
shall be installed perpendicular to the grain of the
sheathing material and wood framing member. A visual
inspection of the connection shall be made after the nails
are driven into the material. The test shall not reveal any
sign of unusual splitting of the sheathing material or
framing.
6.0 QUALITY CONTROL
6.1 General: For steel nails and spikes recognized as
having higher bending yield strengths than those assigned
in IBC Section 2303.6 (Tables S1.1 and S1.2 of ASTM
F1667), and hardened steel nails having specified
minimum bending yield strengths that deviate from the
values in Table S1.2 of ASTM F1667, quality
documentation and inspections shall be in accordance
with Section 6.2. For all other nails and spikes, quality
with Section 6.3. See Annex A for alternate procedures for
qualification and quality control of nails that are produced
by manufacturers other than the report holder or a listee
on the evaluation report.
6.2 Nails and Spikes Recognized for Higher
Bending Yield Strengths:
6.2.1 Quality documentation complying with the ICC-
ES Acceptance Criteria for Quality Documentation (AC10)
shall be submitted for each facility manufacturing or
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)

labeling products that are recognized in the ICC-ES
evaluation report. The quality documentation shall include
technical drawings for each nail and the specifications
required by Section 2.1.
6.2.2 A qualifying inspection shall be conducted at
each manufacturing facility when required by the ICC-ES
Acceptance Criteria for Inspections and Inspection
Agencies (AC304).
6.2.3 Third party follow-up inspections are required
under this acceptance criteria for nails and spikes
recognized as having higher bending yield strengths than
those assigned in IBC Section 2303.6 (Tables S1.1 and
S1.2 of ASTM F 1667).
6.3 Nails and Spikes Having Standard Bending
Yield Strengths:
6.3.1 Quality documentation complying with the ICC-
ES Acceptance Criteria for Quality Documentation (AC10)
shall be submitted for each facility manufacturing or
labeling products that are recognized in the ICC-ES
evaluation report. The quality documentation shall include
technical drawings for each nail and the specifications
required by Section 2.1.
6.3.2 A qualifying inspection shall be conducted at
each manufacturing facility in accordance with the
requirements of the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for
Inspections and Inspection Agencies (AC304).
6.3.3 An annual inspection shall be conducted at
each manufacturing facility in accordance with AC304.
7.0 EVALUATION REPORT RECOGNITION
The evaluation report shall include the following:
1. Basic information required by Section 2.12.0,
including product description, packaging and identification.
2. Allowable design values based on Section 4.0 of
this criteria.Reference lateral and withdrawal design
values and/or guidance on how to determine these values,
in accordance with Section 4.0.
3. Placement methods, based on Section 4.6 of this
criteria.A statement that placement of nails shall comply
with the NDS.
4. Information concerning fastener substitution in
horizontal diaphragms and vertical shear walls, based on
Section 5.0 of this criteria, as applicable. This information
should include the nail slip function, en, along with a
statement indicating that this function is to be used in lieu
of the fastener slip functions given in SDPWS Table
C4.2.2D when calculating diaphragm or shear wall
deflection per SDPWS Sections C4.2.2 or C4.3.2,
respectively. Exception: The nail slip function, en, is not
required to be included within the evaluation report if it can
be established that the function is sufficiently similar to
that of the code-prescribed nail.

TABLE 1 - REFERENCED STANDARDS

STANDARD 1997 UBC 2006 IBC 2006 IRC 2009 IBC 2009 IRC
ANSI/NFoPA ANSI/AF&PA ANSI/AF&PA ANSI/AF&PA NDS– ANSI/AF&PA
NDS NDS-1991 NDS–2005 NDS–2005 2005 NDS–2005
(Part 12) (Part 11) (Part 11) (Part 11) (Part 11)
SDPWS — SDPWS-05 SDPWS-05 SDPWS-08 SDPWS-08
1 1
ASTM D 1761 1988 1988 (2000)ε 1988 (2000)ε 2006 —

8
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)

ANNEX A
Qualification and Quality Control Procedures for Purchased Fasteners

A1.0 General:
A1.1 Purpose: The purpose of this annex is to set forth alternate procedures for qualification of nails as complying with the
provisions of AC116, and establishment of quality control for such nails, for nails that are produced by manufacturers other
than the report holder.
A1.2 Scope: This annex applies to report holders who purchase nails from sources who have not submitted quality control
documentation to ICC-ES, and whose manufacturing facilities have not been audited by ICC-ES.
A1.3 Referenced Standards:
A1.3.1 ASTM F 1470-02, Standard Guide for Fastener Sampling for Specified Mechanical Properties and Performance
Inspection, ASTM International.
A1.3.2 MIL-STD-1916, April 1, 1996, DOD Preferred Methods for Acceptance of Product, Department of Defense.
A1.4 Definitions:
A1.4.1 Report Holder: For the purposes of this annex, the term “report holder” shall refer to evaluation report holders or
listees on evaluation reports who are recognized in the evaluation report to purchase fasteners.
A2.0 Qualification Process:
A2.1 General: The qualification process consists of four stages. At each stage, the quantity of fasteners ordered
increases, until consistent conformance to the requirements of ASTM F1667, and comparable engineering drawings issued by
the report holder, is assured. Characteristics subject to inspection and testing include bending yield strength for nails, ductility
for stainless steel staples and nails, hardness and ductility for hardened nails, galvanized coating weight (where applicable),
and physical dimensions for all fasteners as required by AC116. Sampling and evaluation shall be consistent with Table III,
“Variables sampling plans,” verification level V of MIL-STD-1916. In this case, the sample size is 64 pieces.
At every step of the qualification process, or at any point in the auditing process, any product that is found to be
nonconforming shall be scrapped, returned, or otherwise controlled so that it is not identified as covered by the evaluation
report.
A2.2 Stage 1: The first step of the process is to obtain carton size quantities of each nail diameter, material type and
configuration (smooth, ring, screw, hardened, stainless, etc.), to be qualified. Sixty-four fasteners shall be selected from the
carton and all test samples are to come from this selection. Testing shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of
AC116. Tests may be performed by the report holder and do not have to be performed by an accredited laboratory. Depending
on the number of tests to be performed (stiffness, ductility, etc.) and the number of fasteners to be tested in each test (sample
size of 7, 15, etc.) not all 64 fasteners may be used in a test. Each individual sample is to be tested as outlined in Section A2.1
for characteristics subject to inspection and testing. If compliance to all aspects is achieved, proceed to Section A2.3. If any
nonconformances are found, the supplier shall be notified, and the process restarted, with new products submitted for testing.
Upon the conclusion of testing, the fasteners in the sample shall be scrapped.
A2.3 Stage 2: The second stage of the process is to apply the quantity of fasteners to skid quantities of each type to be
qualified. Testing shall be performed by an accredited laboratory. If fasteners pass all tests, the report holder shall provide a
copy of the test report(s) to ICC-ES. The new samples shall be manufactured from a different heat of rod than was used in the
sample under Stage 1. The samples shall be tested as described in Stage 1, with the exception that the 64 fasteners will be
sampled from a number of cartons as specified by ASTM F 1470. The number of cartons from which the 64 fasteners are
selected for each fastener type is the “sample size” indicated in ASTM F 1470, Table 3, for Sample Level A, for a “lot size”
equal to the number of cartons in the skid that contain the type of fastener being tested. Even though ASTM F 1470 specifies
Sampling Level B or C for some fastener characteristics in its Table 1, all fastener tests are performed on fasteners from the
group of 64 selected from the number of boxes specified in ASTM F 1470, Table 3, for Sample Level A. If the samples all
exhibit conformance to the requirements of ASTM F 1667 and AC116, proceed to Section A2.4. If nonconformances related to
ICC-ES requirements such as nail bending yield strength, staple moment, hardness, ductility, etc., are found, the process must
restart at Section A2.2, or be abandoned. Upon the conclusion of testing, the fasteners in the sample shall be scrapped.
A2.4 Stage 3: The third stage of the process is to move to container quantities. At the container level, the fasteners will
generally be mixed by type within the container. The number of cartons from which the 64 fasteners are selected for each
fastener type is the “sample size” indicated in ASTM F 1470, Table 3, for Sample Level A, for a “lot size” equal to the number
of cartons in the skid that contain the type of fastener being tested. Tests may be performed by the report holder and do not
have to be performed by an accredited laboratory. Inspection and testing shall be as outlined in Section A2.2, above. If the
fasteners demonstrate conformance, move to normal purchase practice, Section A2.5. In the case of major nonconformances
related to ICC-ES requirements such as nail bending yield strength, staple moment, hardness, ductility, etc., the process shall
restart at Section A2.2, or be abandoned.
A2.5 Stage 4: The next six shipments of fasteners require testing, but at a reduced level. A “shipment” consists of product
received from one order. For sampling purposes, each intermodal container or truckload is considered a separate shipment. If
a shipment contains different fastener types, each fastener type shall be tested. For fastener bending yield strength testing, a
9
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR NAILS AND SPIKES (AC116)

“type” consists of one combination of shank diameter and shake style (i.e., smooth, screw or ring) regardless of nail length.
Test and inspect as described in Section A2.2, above, determining the number of cartons from which the 64 fasteners are to
be selected using ASTM F1470 as described in Section A2.3, above. If nonconformances related to ICC-ES requirements
such as nail bending yield strength, hardness, ductility, etc., are found, the process shall restart at Section A2.2, or be
abandoned. If the fasteners are conforming, the supplier shall be considered to be qualified.
Supplier qualification shall continue with testing of each fastener type in each future shipment. However, after ten
consecutive shipments have been tested with all fasteners conforming to all requirements, the Sample Level used in
application of ASTM F1470 will change from Sample Level A to Sample Level B. This will always result in the 64 fasteners
being selected from a smaller number of fastener cartons.
After five additional consecutive shipments have been tested with all fasteners conforming to all requirements, the Sample
Level used in application of ASTM F1470 will change from Sample Level B to Sample Level C. This will usually result in the 64
fasteners being selected from a smaller number of fastener cartons.
After Sample Level has been switched from A to B or C, if any tested fastener types fail any test, the Sample Level will
revert to A as at the beginning of Section A2.4.
A3.0 Quality System:
The report holder shall provide a quality control manual complying with the ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria for Quality
Documentation. The documentation shall document procedures complying with this annex. The report holder’s testing facility
shall demonstrate that equipment, procedures and personnel are adequate to conduct the necessary testing.

10