EN 1090-2 sets four execution classes for steel structures, EXC1 lowest and EXC4 highest. The designer and owner pick the class, and it can cover a whole structure, part of it, or one detail. If no class is stated, EXC2 applies. A handrail might be EXC1; a bridge is typically EXC4.
The selection guidance is in Annex B. It combines the consequence class, service category and production category.
| As the class goes up | What usually changes |
|---|---|
| Weld quality level | EN ISO 5817 levels are often mapped as D, C, B and B+ for EXC1 to EXC4. |
| Testing | Extra NDT isn’t required on EXC1 welds, but it is from EXC2 up. |
| Supervision | A welding coordinator is required from EXC2 up. |
These summaries come from secondary sources. Check Annexes A and B in the official EN 1090-2 text before putting them in a contract.
Two documents matter here: a welding procedure specification (WPS) with its qualification record, and welder qualifications to whichever standard your project uses, for example EN ISO 9606-1, ASME IX or AWS D1.1. If your spec asks for them, list them in the RFQ.
TIG gives a clean, controlled weld with little heat tint and no spatter. We used it on all the 316 drainage at Baladi. MIG is faster, and it’s what we use on carbon steel structures. More in our welding processes guide.
Our welders are certified. Send us the standard and document list for your project and we’ll tell you what we can supply.
Answer a few questions and you get a list of what to attach, plus a summary you can send us straight away.
It depends on your contract. On Saudi projects the project spec and consultant decide, and EN 1090 applies when the spec names it. Under that standard a handrail can be EXC1.
EXC2, if the spec doesn't say.
Usually a WPS with its qualification record, welder qualifications, NDT reports and material certificates. List them in the RFQ and we'll confirm.
Check the numbers against the current edition of each standard and your project spec.