Achieving BS EN 1090 certification is an important step for manufacturers of structural steel and aluminium components. But what exactly does an Approved Body assess during the certification process?
Understanding what auditors are looking for can help organisations prepare more effectively, strengthen internal controls and approach certification with confidence.
The Role of an Approved Body
For manufacturers placing structural components on the UK market, a UK Approved Body provides independent assessment of compliance with the requirements of BS EN 1090-1.
For CE marking in EU markets, assessment is carried out by an EU Notified Body.
The purpose of the assessment is to verify that the manufacturer has implemented an effective Factory Production Control (FPC) system and can consistently produce compliant structural components.
1. Application and Scope Review
The process begins by establishing the scope of certification.
This typically includes reviewing:
- Product types and fabrication activities
- The execution class (EXC1-EXC4)
- Manufacturing processes
- Relevant BS EN 1090 requirements
- The appointment and competence of the Responsible Welding Coordinator (RWC)
This ensures the assessment is appropriately aligned to the manufacturer’s operations.
2. Assessment of Factory Production Control (FPC)
A core requirement of BS EN 1090 is the implementation of a documented Factory Production Control system.
The assessment typically reviews:
FPC Documentation
- Factory Production Control manual
- Procedures and work instructions
- Welding procedures
- Material traceability arrangements
- Control of documents and records
- Management of subcontracted activities
- Calibration and verification processes
- Inspection and testing requirements
On-Site Assessment
During the assessment, auditors may:
- Observe production activities
- Review traceability records
- Examine fabrication processes
- Assess material handling controls
- Review inspection records
- Sample completed products and documentation
The objective is to confirm that documented processes are being effectively implemented in practice.
3. Assessment of Welding Controls
Welding is a critical element of BS EN 1090 compliance.
Depending on the execution class, organisations may also need to demonstrate compliance with the relevant requirements of BS EN ISO 3834.
The assessment may include reviewing:
- Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS)
- Welding Procedure Qualification Records (WPQR)
- Welder qualifications
- Welding consumables
- Welding supervision arrangements
- Responsible Welding Coordinator competence
- Equipment calibration and verification
The level of scrutiny typically increases as execution class requirements become more demanding.
4. Verification of Technical Compliance
Manufacturers must be able to demonstrate that products meet the relevant technical requirements of BS EN 1090.
Evidence may include:
- Qualified welding procedures
- Material certification
- Inspection and testing records
- Non-destructive testing reports
- Compliance with specified tolerances
- Supporting technical documentation
The assessment aims to verify that products can consistently achieve the required performance and quality standards.
5. Certification Decision
When compliance is demonstrated, the Approved Body can issue a Factory Production Control Certificate.
The certificate will typically define:
- Certified activities
- Product scope
- Applicable execution class
- Relevant standard requirements
This certification forms part of the process that enables manufacturers to meet applicable UKCA marking requirements.
6. Ongoing Surveillance
Certification is not a one-time activity.
Approved Bodies carry out periodic surveillance assessments to confirm ongoing compliance and verify that certified processes continue to operate effectively.
These assessments may review:
- Maintenance of the FPC system
- Welding qualification validity
- Traceability records
- Inspection and testing activities
- Corrective actions
- Changes to personnel, processes or scope
Regular surveillance helps ensure organisations continue to meet BS EN 1090 requirements over time.
Why Preparation Matters
Organisations that invest in their Factory Production Control systems, welding controls and internal processes are often better positioned to achieve certification efficiently and maintain it over the long term.
Understanding what an Approved Body assesses can help reduce delays, improve readiness and build confidence throughout the certification process.
