Standards Comparison

    EN 1090

    Mandatory
    2009

    EU standard for steel and aluminium structural execution

    VS

    ISO 30301

    Voluntary
    2019

    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.

    Structural Metalwork

    EN 1090

    EN 1090 Execution of steel and aluminium structures

    Cost
    €€€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    6-12 months

    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
    Records Management

    ISO 30301

    ISO 30301:2019 Management systems for records requirements

    Cost
    €€€€
    Complexity
    High
    Implementation Time
    12-18 months

    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 30301:2019Information 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

    Scope

    EN 1090
    Execution and conformity of steel/aluminium structures
    ISO 30301
    Management system for records lifecycle controls

    Industry

    EN 1090
    Construction, fabrication (EU/EEA focus)
    ISO 30301
    All organizations worldwide

    Nature

    EN 1090
    Harmonized standard enabling mandatory CE marking
    ISO 30301
    Voluntary certifiable management system standard

    Testing

    EN 1090
    FPC certification, AVCP audits by notified bodies
    ISO 30301
    Internal audits, optional third-party certification

    Penalties

    EN 1090
    Market exclusion, legal liability without CE mark
    ISO 30301
    No legal penalties, loss of certification only

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about EN 1090 and ISO 30301

    EN 1090 FAQ

    ISO 30301 FAQ

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