EN 1090
European standard for steel/aluminium structural execution and CE marking
IATF 16949
International standard for automotive quality management systems.
Quick Verdict
EN 1090 mandates CE marking for structural steel/aluminium in EU construction via FPC and execution classes, while IATF 16949 certifies automotive QMS with core tools like APQP and FMEA. Fabricators adopt EN 1090 for market access; suppliers pursue IATF for OEM contracts.
EN 1090
EN 1090 Execution of steel and aluminium structures
Key Features
- Enables CE marking under CPR for structural components
- Risk-based Execution Classes EXC1-EXC4 scaling requirements
- Mandatory certified Factory Production Control FPC system
- Integrates ISO 3834 welding quality management
- Full traceability and NDT inspection by risk level
IATF 16949
IATF 16949:2016 Automotive Quality Management Standard
Key Features
- Mandatory AIAG core tools (APQP, FMEA, PPAP, MSA, SPC)
- Non-delegable top management QMS responsibility
- Rigorous supplier development and second-party audits
- Product safety with special characteristics controls
- Risk-based planning and contingency requirements
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. It serves as the primary framework under the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR), enabling CE marking for load-bearing elements in construction. Its risk-based approach uses Execution Classes (EXC1-EXC4) to scale requirements by consequence, service, and production categories.
Key Components
- **EN 1090-1Conformity assessment, FPC certification, DoP.
- **EN 1090-2/-3Technical rules for steel/aluminium execution (welding, tolerances, corrosion protection, NDT).
- Integrates ISO 3834 for welding; emphasizes traceability, inspection.
- AVCP systems with Notified Body certification and surveillance.
Why Organizations Use It
Mandatory for EU market access; reduces liability, ensures safety. Drives capability in welding, traceability; enhances competitiveness via certified quality. Builds stakeholder trust through CE marking.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, FPC build, personnel training, NB certification (3-12 months). Applies to fabricators in construction; requires ongoing surveillance.
IATF 16949 Details
What It Is
IATF 16949:2016 is the international quality management system standard for automotive production and relevant service parts organizations. It supplements ISO 9001:2015 with automotive-specific requirements, focusing on defect prevention, variation reduction, and waste elimination. The risk-based thinking and process approach align with PDCA cycles.
Key Components
- Clauses 4–10 mirroring ISO 9001, plus supplemental requirements in leadership, planning, support, operations, evaluation, and improvement.
- Mandatory **core toolsAPQP, FMEA, Control Plans, MSA, SPC, PPAP.
- Emphasis on product safety, supplier management, CSRs, and statistical methods.
- Certification via IATF-recognized bodies with staged audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Contractual OEM requirements for supply chain access.
- Reduces COPQ, warranty costs, recalls via prevention.
- Enhances competitiveness, stakeholder trust, and operational efficiency.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, core tool deployment, training, audits.
- Targets automotive suppliers globally; 12-18 months typical.
- Requires internal audits, management reviews, third-party certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | EN 1090 | IATF 16949 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Execution and conformity of steel/aluminium structures | QMS for automotive production and service parts |
| Industry | Construction, steel/aluminium fabrication, EU-focused | Automotive supply chain, global OEM suppliers |
| Nature | Harmonized standard enabling mandatory CE marking | Voluntary certification standard based on ISO 9001 |
| Testing | FPC certification, ITT/ITC, notified body surveillance | Core tools (APQP, FMEA, PPAP), IATF audits |
| Penalties | Market exclusion, no CE marking, legal liability | Loss of certification, OEM contract exclusion |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EN 1090 and IATF 16949
EN 1090 FAQ
IATF 16949 FAQ
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