What the classification says
Heavy splintering is visible on several blocks.
How to spot it
Check all nine blocks. One chipped corner is wear; heavy splintering across several blocks is poor general condition.
Why it matters
One chipped block is wear and tear. Heavy splintering across several blocks is a sign the pallet has been handled hard for a long time, and the classification treats it as poor general condition. Splintered blocks lose grip on their nails and wear unevenly, so the pallet may rock or sit lower on one side. When you grade a lot, look at all nine blocks on each pallet rather than the two corner blocks you see first in a stack.
Effect on the pallet's class
Poor general condition; not fit for use. See Not fit for use for the full criteria.
Repair
Licensed repair only.
If no licensed repairer is practical, sell sound timber as non-EPAL wood or send the pallets for recycling.