This European Standard specifies the safety requirements and test methods for climbing holds. This European Standard is applicable to climbing holds, which are used for the natural progression of the climber, i.e. without the use of artificial means (e.g. ice axes, crampons, hooks, nuts) on artificial climbing structures (ACS) and bouldering walls. Climbing holds are designed to be mounted on the ACS with bolts, screws etc. Climbing holds include large volumes or features that are designed for use without additional climbing holds being attached to them. (Volumes or features that are designed for use with additional climbing holds attached to them should meet the requirements of EN 12572-1) The main fixation points for climbing holds forms part of the existing layout of the ACS and are considered in EN 12572-1 and EN 12572-2. A hold is not a belay anchor system; it is not designed to accommodate the latter and is therefore is not intended for belaying the climber. If a hold is designed as belay point it should meet EN 12572-1 and EN 12572-3 of the standard. This European Standard is not applicable to ice climbing, dry tooling and playground equipment.