Frequently Asked Questions

EN 1090 is the harmonised European standard governing CE marking of structural steel and aluminium components. In Ireland, EN 1090-1 applies to any fabricated steel intended for permanent use in construction works—including beams, columns, trusses, staircases, and structural frameworks. Under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), CE marking to EN 1090-1 has been mandatory in Ireland since July 2014 for these products.

To comply with EN 1090 in Ireland, steel fabricators must: implement a Factory Production Control (FPC) system; achieve certification from a Notified Body; have a qualified Responsible Welding Coordinator (RWC) if welding is involved; establish material traceability procedures; create a Declaration of Performance (DoP) for each product type; and affix the CE mark before placing products on the market.

To obtain CE marking for structural steel in Ireland: (1) Conduct a gap assessment of your current systems; (2) Implement a Factory Production Control system meeting EN 1090-1; (3) Ensure welding quality management per EN ISO 3834 with a qualified RWC; (4) Engage a Notified Body for FPC certification audit; (5) Prepare Declarations of Performance; (6) Affix CE marking to your products. The process typically takes 4-8 weeks with professional consultancy support.

EN 1090-2 defines four execution classes based on reliability and safety requirements: EXC1 (low consequence, e.g., agricultural buildings); EXC2 (medium consequence, most commercial and residential); EXC3 (high consequence, bridges, public buildings); EXC4 (very high consequence, special structures). In Ireland, most commercial steel fabrication falls under EXC2 or EXC3. The designer or specifier determines the execution class based on consequence class, service category, and production category.

Several Notified Bodies operate in Ireland for EN 1090 certification, including NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland), and international bodies like BM TRADA, BSI, and Lloyd's Register who service the Irish market. Your consultant can help coordinate with the most appropriate Notified Body based on your execution class and timeframe requirements.

EN 1090 certification costs in Ireland vary depending on company size, execution class, and current system readiness. Typical costs include: consultancy support, Notified Body certification fees (initial + annual surveillance), and any required training or equipment. The cost is offset by access to public contracts and EU markets. Contact us for a tailored quote based on your specific requirements.

Yes. EN 1090 certification applies to all steel fabricators in Ireland regardless of size if producing structural steel for permanent construction use. There is no exemption for small businesses. However, smaller fabricators often only need certification to EXC1 or EXC2, which have less demanding requirements. Many small Irish fabricators successfully achieve certification with proper guidance.