This European Standard specifies requirements for steel lighting columns. It includes materials and conformity control. It applies to post top columns not exceeding 20 m height for post top lanterns and to columns with brackets not exceeding 18 m height for side entry lanterns.

This European Standard specifies performance related to the essential requirement of resistance to horizontal (wind) loads, measured according to prEN 40-3. Passive safety and the behaviour of a column under the impact of a vehicle are not included in this standard. This group of lighting columns will have additional requirements (see prEN 40-2).