The O-cell bi-directional load testing technique is, in effect, two static load tests performed simultaneously. One test is performed upwards against skin friction and the other concurrent in the downwards direction against combined lower section skin friction and end-bearing. Many hundred of tests of this type are now being carried out each year around the world, often on the most prestigious and signature structures. Similarities between traditional top down load testing and the bi-directional testing method are many, both being full scale static load testing techniques. However, due to the unique nature of the bi-directional testing method, the standard testing procedures and specifications generally prescribed for traditional top down static load testing can be improved to take into consideration the positioning of the loading jacks and the unique nature of the testing technique. The authors have been involved in the preparation of some of the specifications for traditional top-down static loading tests and also in the formulation of project specific testing programmes to maximise the geotechnical information which can be retrieved from O-cell bi-directional tests. Some of the well accepted specifications such as ICE SPERW 2007, ASTM D1143D 2007 and the European pile testing specification and guidelines may be applied directly to bi-directional loading tests. Their appropriateness is reviewed in relation to O-cell bi-directional static load testing to indicate how the maximum geotechnical information may be obtained by minor modification/improvement to the specifications and how they can be optimised with respect to hard soils and weak rocks. Loading increments, creep measurements and load cycling are discussed and recommendations for adaption of the conventional standards and specifications are made.