EN 1090
EU standard for steel and aluminium structural execution
ISO 30301
International standard for records management systems
Quick Verdict
EN 1090 mandates CE marking for structural steel/aluminium via FPC and execution classes in EU construction, while ISO 30301 provides voluntary records management systems for any organization. Fabricators adopt EN 1090 for market access; all use ISO 30301 for governance and compliance.
EN 1090
EN 1090 Execution of steel and aluminium structures
Key Features
- Risk-based Execution Classes (EXC1-EXC4) scaling requirements
- Factory Production Control (FPC) for mandatory CE marking
- Harmonized conformity assessment under CPR for structures
- Technical execution rules for steel (1090-2) and aluminium (1090-3)
- Welding quality management aligned with ISO 3834
ISO 30301
ISO 30301:2019 Management systems for records requirements
Key Features
- High-Level Structure for MSS integration
- Normative Annex A operational controls
- Risk-based records requirements planning
- Flexible conformity pathways options
- Full records lifecycle management
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 via certified Factory Production Control (FPC) and Declaration of Performance (DoP).
- **EN 1090-2/-3Technical requirements for steel/aluminium execution, including materials, welding, tolerances, inspection.
- **Execution Classes (EXC1-EXC4)Scales rigor by consequence, service, production categories.
- Notified Body certification with ongoing surveillance.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for EU market access and CE marking.
- Reduces liability, ensures traceability, improves weld quality.
- Builds stakeholder trust, enables high-risk projects.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, FPC build, personnel training, NB audits. Applies to fabricators globally targeting Europe; 6-12 months typical, with welding/traceability focus.
ISO 30301 Details
What It Is
ISO 30301:2019 — Information and documentation — Management systems for records — Requirements is a certifiable management system standard for establishing, implementing, and improving a Management System for Records (MSR). It ensures organizations create and control reliable evidence of business activities, using the High-Level Structure (HLS) with risk-based planning across Clauses 4–10.
Key Components
- Core clauses: Context, Leadership, Planning, Support, Operation, Performance Evaluation, Improvement.
- **Annex A (normative)Operational controls for records processes and systems.
- Principles: Authenticity, reliability, integrity, usability.
- Conformity options: Self-declaration, external confirmation, third-party certification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Strengthens compliance, auditability, and transparency.
- Mitigates risks like data loss, litigation, and regulatory fines.
- Enhances efficiency, business continuity, and stakeholder trust.
- Integrates with ISO 9001, 27001 for competitive advantage.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: Gap analysis, policy design, operational controls, audits. Scalable for any organization size/industry; certification via accredited bodies.
Key Differences
| Aspect | EN 1090 | ISO 30301 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Execution and conformity of steel/aluminium structures | Management system for records lifecycle controls |
| Industry | Construction, fabrication (EU/EEA focus) | All organizations worldwide |
| Nature | Harmonized standard enabling mandatory CE marking | Voluntary certifiable management system standard |
| Testing | FPC certification, AVCP audits by notified bodies | Internal audits, optional third-party certification |
| Penalties | Market exclusion, legal liability without CE mark | No legal penalties, loss of certification only |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EN 1090 and ISO 30301
EN 1090 FAQ
ISO 30301 FAQ
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