Describes procedures for processing of surfaces to produce coatings consisting essentially of metal phosphates. Five classes of accelerated and unaccelerated phosphating process are dealt with, designated according to composition and mass of coating as A1 - heavyweight, A2 - heavyweight, B - medium, C - lightweight, and D - extra lightweight. Sealing after phosphating is specified, and requirements are stated for the phosphated surface according to class. Three methods for determining mass of coating, and a method for determining freedom from corrosive residues are described in appendices.