ISO 16474-1:2013 provides information and general guidance relevant to the selection and operation of the methods of exposure described in detail in subsequent parts. It also describes general performance requirements for devices used for exposing paints and varnishes to laboratory light sources. Information about such performance requirements is required only by producers of artificial accelerated weathering or artificial accelerated irradiation devices.

ISO 16474-1:2013 also provides information on the interpretation of data from artificial accelerated weathering or artificial accelerated irradiation exposures.