The aim of these recommendations is to provide a basis for the design and analysis of welded components loaded by fluctuating forces, to avoid failure by fatigue. In addition they may assist other bodies who are establishing fatigue design codes. It is assumed that the user has a working knowledge of the basics of fatigue and fracture mechanics. The purpose of designing a structure against the limit state due to fatigue damage is to ensure, with an adequate survival probability, that the performance is satisfactory during the design life. The required survival probability is obtained by the use of appropriate partial safety factors.