The specifications given are intended to serve as a basis for estimating the probability of corrosion of metallic materials as defined in clause 3 that are exposed to the action of a corrosive agent containing an aqueous electrolyte solution constantly or only intermittently acting on the external surfaces of a structural component. These specifications apply equally to service components in side buildings, vessels, pipes and structural components outside buildings, which are subject to the corrosive action of soil, ground water or surface water.