The purpose of the Terrestrial Manual is to contribute to the international harmonisation of methods for the surveillance and control of the most important animal diseases. Standards are described for laboratory diagnostic tests and the production and control of biological products (principally vaccines) for veterinary use across the globe.

All OIE List A and B diseases of mammals, birds and bees are covered, together with additional diseases of importance in international trade. Each chapter of the Terrestrial Manual has been written and reviewed by experts of international standing and has been approved by OIE Member Countries. The diagnostic tests and protocols are those referred to in the Terrestrial Animal Health Code. These complementary publications contributed to the designation of the OIE as the reference organisation for animal health by the Marrakesh Agreement establishing the World Trade Organization.

The introductory chapters of the Terrestrial Manual contain information on sampling methods, principles of veterinary vaccine production, biotechnology, quality management in veterinary testing laboratories, assay validation, sterility tests, laboratory safety, the role of official bodies in the international regulation of veterinary biologicals, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Each disease chapter includes a summary that gives an overview of the tests and vaccines available for the disease. This is followed by a text intended for laboratory workers, giving details of diagnostic tests and, where appropriate, the requirements for vaccines or diagnostic biologicals. Bibliographical references are listed at the end of each chapter.
The complete edition of the Terrestrial Manual is available in English and Spanish. A French version is forseen.
The Terrestrial Manual is currently available in Web format.