This standard establishes together with ISO 14688-1 the basic principles for the identification and classification of soils on the basis of those material and mass characteristics most commonly used for soils for engineering purposes. The characteristics relevant may vary and so, for particular projects or materials, more detailed subdivisions of the descriptive and classification terms may be appropriate. Soil identification and description are covered in ISO 14688-1. The classification system established in this standard permits soils to be grouped into classes of similar composition and geotechnical properties, and with respect to their suitability for geotechnical engineering purposes, such as: foundations, ground improvements, construction material for roads, construction material for embankments, construction material for dams, construction material for drainage systems. The field of application of this standard is natural soil and similar man-made material in situ and redeposited. Identification and description of rock are covered by ISO 14689.