This document supports the other standards in the EN 17149 series, in order to ensure consistency of terminology across the series. It describes the basic terms and definitions as well as general procedures for strength assessments of rail vehicle structures that are manufactured, operated and maintained in accordance with standards valid for rail system applications. This document is applicable to all kinds of rail vehicles. The assessment procedure is restricted to ferrous materials and aluminium. This document does not define design load cases. This document is not applicable for corrosive conditions or elevated temperature operation in the creep range.