EN 1090
European standards for steel and aluminium structural execution
GRI
Global framework for sustainability impact reporting
Quick Verdict
EN 1090 mandates CE marking for structural steel/aluminium via FPC certification in EU construction, while GRI enables voluntary sustainability impact reporting globally. Fabricators need EN 1090 for market access; all firms adopt GRI for stakeholder transparency and ESG credibility.
EN 1090
EN 1090 Execution of steel and aluminium structures
Key Features
- Risk-based Execution Classes (EXC1–EXC4) scaling requirements
- Certified Factory Production Control (FPC) by Notified Body
- CE marking mandatory for EU market access
- Technical execution rules for welding and tolerances
- ISO 3834 integration for welding quality management
GRI
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards
Key Features
- Impact-based materiality via GRI 3 process
- Modular Universal, Sector, Topic Standards
- Mandatory GRI Content Index for traceability
- Broad worker scope including contractors (GRI 403)
- Transparent reasons for disclosure omissions
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
EN 1090 Details
What It Is
EN 1090 is a harmonized European standard family (EN 1090-1/2/3) for execution and conformity assessment of structural steel and aluminium components under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). It provides a risk-based framework enabling CE marking for load-bearing components in construction works.
Key Components
- **EN 1090-1Conformity assessment, Factory Production Control (FPC) certification by Notified Body.
- **EN 1090-2/-3Technical requirements for steel/aluminium (welding, tolerances, inspection, corrosion protection).
- **Execution Classes (EXC1-4)Scales controls by consequence, service, production categories.
- Integrates ISO 3834 for welding; requires traceability, NDT, personnel qualification.
Why Organizations Use It
Mandated for EU market access; reduces liability, ensures safety. Drives capability in welding/traceability, unlocks high-risk projects, builds stakeholder trust via certified FPC/CE marking.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, FPC build, welding quals, NB certification, surveillance. Targets fabricators; 6-12 months typical; involves training, digital traceability, ongoing audits.
GRI Details
What It Is
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards is a voluntary, modular framework for sustainability reporting. It provides a global common language for organizations to disclose significant economic, environmental, and social impacts. The impact-centric materiality approach requires identifying and prioritizing actual and potential impacts on stakeholders, using a structured four-step process.
Key Components
- Universal Standards (GRI 1, 2, 3): Foundation, general disclosures, material topics.
- **Sector StandardsSector-specific likely material topics (e.g., Oil & Gas, Mining).
- **Topic StandardsSpecific disclosures (e.g., GRI 403 Occupational Health & Safety, GRI 308 Supplier Environmental Assessment). Built on principles like accuracy, balance, verifiability; compliance via GRI Content Index; no certification, but "in accordance" claims.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives accountability, regulatory alignment (e.g., CSRD), risk management, benchmarking. Enhances stakeholder trust, investor appeal, supply-chain resilience.
Implementation Overview
Phased: materiality assessment, data systems, management approaches, content index. Applies universally; involves governance, stakeholder engagement, assurance readiness. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | EN 1090 | GRI |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Execution and conformity of steel/aluminium structures | Sustainability impacts on economy, environment, people |
| Industry | Construction, steel/aluminium fabrication (EU/EEA) | All industries worldwide, any organization size |
| Nature | Harmonized mandatory standard for CE marking | Voluntary modular reporting framework |
| Testing | FPC certification, NB audits, surveillance | Self-reported disclosures, optional external assurance |
| Penalties | Market exclusion, no CE marking allowed | Reputational damage, no legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EN 1090 and GRI
EN 1090 FAQ
GRI FAQ
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