This international standard provides a method for determining how well a framed PV module performs mechanically under the influence of inclined non-uniform snow loads. The test method refers to framed PV modules as test specimens without a specific mounting system as well as combinations of PV modules with particular mounting systems. The test method determines the mechanical non-uniform-load limit of a framed PV module. The loads specified in this document apply exclusively to natural snow load distributions. Any expected artificial accumulations (e.g. from snow removal or redistribution) must be considered separately. Methods to eliminate or counteract the occurence of inhomogeneous snow accumulation, such as a steep installation angle (more than 60 degree), are not included in this standard. This standard assumes a relationship between ground snow-cover and module snow-cover which may not be applicable in locations where the snow does not completely melt between snow falls. This standard does not consider the effect of snow cover on power generation. While the test method includes a wait time between load steps the standard does not provide a complete assessment of the fatigue behaviour of the materials of the module such as front glass. Because typical field failures of PV modules caused by snow load show glass breakage and frame bending, the test method aims at reproducing the load under which such failures occur.