This part of ISO 10438 specifies general requirements for lubrication systems, oil-type shaft-sealing systems, dry-gas face-type shaft-sealing systems and control-oil systems for general- or special-purpose applications. General-purpose applications are limited to lubrication systems. These systems can serve equipment such as compressors, gears, pumps and drivers.

This part of ISO 10438 is intended to be used in conjunction with ISO 10438‑2, ISO 10438‑3 or ISO 10438‑4, as appropriate.