EN 1090 Certificate

The EN 1090 Certificate is a European standard that regulates the execution of steel and aluminium structures. Introduced as part of the European Union's Construction Products Regulation (CPR), this certification ensures that fabricated structural components meet strict safety, quality, and performance standards before they are placed on the market within the European Economic Area (EEA).

EN 1090 is not just a quality benchmark—it is a legal requirement for companies that design, manufacture, and assemble load-bearing structural components made of steel or aluminium.

Purpose and Scope of EN 1090

The primary purpose of EN 1090 is to harmonize fabrication and welding practices across the European construction sector. It ensures a consistent level of safety and reliability in construction projects by:

• Controlling manufacturing processes
• Ensuring traceability of materials
• Defining welding requirements and qualifications
• Mandating regular inspections and testing
• Enforcing documentation and compliance processes

This standard applies to a wide range of structures including buildings, bridges, towers, and industrial frameworks made from steel and aluminium.

Key Components of the EN 1090 Standard

The EN 1090 standard consists of three main parts:

EN 1090-1: Requirements for Conformity Assessment

This part outlines the Factory Production Control (FPC) system that manufacturers must implement. It also provides guidelines on how to achieve CE marking for structural components. Without fulfilling EN 1090-1, a company cannot legally sell steel or aluminium structures in Europe.

EN 1090-2: Technical Requirements for Steel Structures

This section specifies the technical execution rules for steel-based structures. It covers material specifications, welding processes, surface treatment, dimensional tolerances, and inspection routines.

EN 1090-3: Technical Requirements for Aluminium Structures

Similar to EN 1090-2, this section is dedicated to aluminium. It outlines the unique welding and material handling requirements relevant to aluminium-based structural components.

Execution Classes and Their Importance

EN 1090 categorizes construction projects into four Execution Classes (EXC), from EXC1 to EXC4. These classes help define the complexity, safety requirements, and quality control levels for specific projects:

• EXC1: Simple structures with low safety risk (e.g., fences, railings)
• EXC2: Standard buildings and small industrial constructions
• EXC3: Large industrial buildings, stadiums, and public infrastructure
• EXC4: Structures with extreme safety requirements (e.g., power plants, offshore platforms)

The chosen Execution Class directly influences the depth of control, documentation, and qualifications needed during production.

CE Marking Under EN 1090

One of the most critical aspects of EN 1090 compliance is the ability to affix the CE mark to structural products. CE marking indicates that the product meets EU safety, health, and environmental protection requirements.

To obtain the CE mark for structural steel or aluminium components, a manufacturer must:

• Establish a Factory Production Control system
• Conduct Initial Type Testing (ITT)
• Undergo assessment by a Notified Body (for EXC2 and above)
• Maintain continuous quality control
• Keep detailed technical documentation

Failure to obtain proper CE marking under EN 1090 may lead to legal consequences, market withdrawal, or reputational damage.

Requirements for Manufacturers

Manufacturers seeking EN 1090 certification must implement a range of processes and controls:

Factory Production Control (FPC)

FPC is a core requirement of EN 1090-1. It involves documented procedures to ensure production consistency. Elements of a good FPC include:

• Incoming material checks
• Equipment calibration
• Process monitoring
• Non-conformance management
• Record keeping

Welding Coordination and Qualification

Companies must appoint qualified welding coordinators. Welders and welding procedures also need certification under EN ISO 9606 and EN ISO 15614, respectively.

Traceability and Quality Assurance

All components must be traceable from raw material to final product. Quality assurance measures such as visual inspections, ultrasonic testing, and material verification are required at various stages of production.

Benefits of EN 1090 Certification

Achieving EN 1090 certification provides several advantages beyond legal compliance:

• Market Access: Enables entry into the European market legally and competitively.
• Credibility: Enhances the company's image by demonstrating a commitment to quality and safety.
• Customer Confidence: Boosts client trust by ensuring reliable and standard-compliant products.
• Process Improvement: Encourages the implementation of structured processes and continuous improvement.
• Risk Reduction: Minimizes the chance of product failure, non-conformities, and legal issues.

Common Challenges in Implementation

Despite its benefits, implementing EN 1090 can be challenging for manufacturers:

• Initial setup costs can be high
• Extensive documentation is required
• Staff training and welding qualifications can be time-consuming
• The process involves collaboration with third-party bodies for certification and assessment

However, these challenges are often outweighed by the long-term benefits and market opportunities the certification provides.

Ongoing Responsibilities After Certification

Certification is not a one-time event. Companies must maintain compliance through:

• Regular audits
• Continuous staff training
• Document updates
• Product testing
• Periodic review of welding procedures and qualifications

Failure to maintain these standards can result in suspension or withdrawal of certification.

Who Needs EN 1090 Certification?

Any company involved in the design, manufacturing, or assembly of load-bearing steel or aluminium components for use in construction within the European market must comply with EN 1090. This includes:

• Steel fabricators
• Welding shops
• Precast structure manufacturers
• Structural designers and engineers
• General contractors working with metal structures

The EN 1090 Certificate is a crucial standard for ensuring quality, safety, and regulatory compliance in the steel and aluminium construction industry. It not only serves as a gateway to European markets through CE marking but also instills confidence in customers and partners.

By understanding its requirements and implementing the necessary systems, manufacturers can enhance their competitive edge while contributing to safer and more reliable construction projects across the EU.