This document intends to provide suggested performance guidelines for synthetic turf systems relative to their declared/specified use and expected performance. The purpose of this document is to provide guidance in establishing testing protocols for quality and performance specifications and to verify these expectations have been met. The performance expectations may differ depending on the sport(s) being played and the level of play (e.g. youth vs. professional). The metrics incorporated within this document serve to assess both the performance and durability of a field at any stage of its useful life considering player interaction, ball interaction and environmental factors. Adoption of the provisions in this document is voluntary. When utilized, they can help improve the confidence level of design professionals, manufacturers and end-users of the quality of components and performance of complete turf systems.

It should be noted that some sports governing bodies (link) have their own certification process and that use of these guidelines does not guarantee that certification by any sports governing body will be achieved. Other sports may also have additional requirements which must be met before they can be played on the field. This document is not intended to be used for certification purposes, nor is it sport specific but it is considered that, if complied with, the recommended minimum level of performance has been achieved.

The quality and performance guidelines have been broken down into sections to address the testing of individual components as well as complete turf systems. These sections include test methods for fiber, turf fabric, environmental analyses and turf systems.