SSPC-VIS 2 provides a method to evaluate the degree of rusting on painted steel (or iron) surfaces. The reference color photographs and corresponding black and white images, which depict the percentage of rusting given in the written specification, form part of the standard.

This standard quantifies the degree of rusting on painted steel surfaces with a zero to ten scale base on the percentage of visible rust present on the surface. Visible rust includes rust blisters and undercutting of the coating.

The rusting depicted in the photographs is not accompanied by blistering, but the photographs show staning associated with the rust.