其原理是由六价铬和二苯基碳酰肼溶液形成有色络合物。加入正磷酸和硫酸后，在540 nm波长范围内对颜色进行光谱光度测量。该方法适用于六价铬含量在约0.05%（m/m）至5%（m/m）范围内的涂层材料。这种方法与争议案件中的仲裁方法相同。本第二版取消并取代了ISO 3856/5-1980，并对其进行了全面修订。

The principle consists in formation of a coloured complex from hexavalent chromium and diphenylcarbazide solution. After addition of orthophosphoric acid and sulfuric acid, spectralphotometric easurement of the colour at a wavelength in the region of 540 nm. The method is applicable to coating materials having hexavalent chromium contents in the range of about 0,05 % (m/m) to 5 % (m/m). This method id the referee method in cases of dispute. This second edition cancels and replaces the ISO 3856/5-1980, of which it constitutes a through revision.