Section 1 – Introduction to the topic

In our previous article, we emphasised the importance of the EN 1090 standard for manufacturers aiming to access EU markets for steel and aluminum structures, as it governs compliance under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR). The EN 1090 standard is divided into three main parts: EN 1090-1, which establishes requirements for conformity assessment and CE marking of structural components; EN 1090-2, which details technical specifications for steel structures; and EN 1090-3, which outlines requirements for aluminum structures. This standard mandates that any structural construction product be CE-marked if it meets specific conditions, such as being permanently incorporated into construction works and serving a structural function. The CE mark not only signifies compliance with essential EU standards but also enables these products to circulate freely within the European market. Without this certification, manufacturers may face legal consequences if product failure leads to harm or damage.

Additionally, the EN 1090 standard categorises structures into four execution classes (EXC 1 to EXC 4), each with distinct requirements based on complexity and risk level. EXC 1 covers simpler structures, such as agricultural buildings, while EXC 2—the most common—applies to supporting steel structures up to strength class S700. EXC 3 and EXC 4 are for more complex structures, with EXC 4 reserved for high-risk applications where failure could have serious consequences, such as in public buildings or grandstands. To obtain CE marking, manufacturers must demonstrate product conformity through type testing and third-party certification of Factory Production Control (FPC) by a Notified Body, followed by a Declaration of Performance (DoP). This process ensures high safety and quality standards for construction products across the EU and underscores manufacturers’ commitment to upholding EU building regulations.

Section 2: EN 1090 relevant applications

For installation systems, EN 1090 compliance is particularly relevant for a range of applications that require stringent safety, structural integrity, and load-bearing reliability. These applications include foot bridges, which must support pedestrian traffic safely; raised floors – also known as integrated floor systems, designed to provide accessible space for cabling and utilities while bearing significant weight; and platforms, which often serve in industrial and commercial settings for accessing machinery or as support surfaces for heavy equipment.


Figure 1: Platforms and walkways at an industrial building

Overhead grids, another key application, are used to mount or suspend equipment above working spaces, making load distribution and safety critical. Pipe bridges, meanwhile, are essential for supporting pipelines across various sections of a facility, where they must withstand environmental stresses and heavy loads.


Figure 2: Integrated Floor System

Elevator and escalator frameworks, too, involve structural components crucial for safely supporting vertical transportation systems in commercial and residential buildings.


Figure 3: Elevator shaft

This focus on EN 1090-compliant solutions underscores Hilti's commitment to high standards in installation and structural support across diverse applications.

Section 3 – EN 1090 project impact

In 2022, a major energy company commissioned a large steel framework for a high-pressure pipeline facility in the industrial sector. The project was set to move quickly, as the client required a fast turnaround to meet growing energy demands. However, mid-way through fabrication, the company was informed that EN 1090 certification had become a mandatory requirement for all structural steel elements in the energy and industry segments. This standard imposed rigorous protocols for quality assurance, welding standards, and material traceability to ensure structural integrity in high-risk environments. Unfortunately, the contractor lacked the certification and was unprepared to implement the strict requirements within the project’s tight schedule.

As a result, the project was halted immediately while the contractor assessed the feasibility of compliance. To meet EN 1090 standards, they would need to make substantial upgrades, including purchasing specialised equipment, training welders, and implementing a documented quality control system. The client, facing increased costs and delays, chose to terminate the contract and find a certified provider, citing compliance as non-negotiable due to potential safety risks. This led to significant financial losses for the contractor, including the costs of unused materials, workforce lay-offs, and lost future business due to damaged industry reputation. The project stop emphasised the critical nature of EN 1090 compliance in high-stakes energy environments, as well as the costly consequences of non-certification in an increasingly regulated industry.

Section 4 – EN 1090 compliant portfolio

Our existing MT System is an EN 1090-compliant, high-performing modular support system specifically designed for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) applications. This compliance ensures that it meets rigorous European standards for structural integrity, quality, and safety in load-bearing installations. The Hilti MT System offers significant advantages in weight-to-load capacity, reducing both overall project costs and carbon footprint, while its straightforward, safer assembly process enhances efficiency on-site. EN 1090 compliance reinforces the MT System's reliability and suitability for applications requiring robust structural support and regulatory adherence.

We have recently launched a new box profile called MT-90H that is well-suited for EN 1090 applications due to several key features that help to ensure reliability, compliance, and ease of use in structural support applications. Here’s why the Hilti MT-90H is an excellent choice:

• High Load-Bearing Capacity: The MT-90H is designed to support significant loads, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications that require compliance with EN 1090 standards, particularly in structural frameworks for process piping, ceiling grids and multidiscipline MEP applications.
• Precision Manufacturing and Quality Control: The MT-90H components undergo a strict quality assurance and manufacturing processes that meet the stringent 4 of 4 requirements of EN 1090. This includes type testing, dimensional accuracy, and durability, which are critical for CE marking and certification under EN 1090.
• CE-Marked and EN 1090 Certified: Hilti’s MT-90H system has been specifically certified under EN 1090, making it ready for direct use in EU construction projects that mandate CE-marked components. This pre-certification simplifies compliance for engineers and contractors by removing the need for additional testing or certification steps.
• Modularity and Flexibility: The MT-90H is part of a modular system, allowing it to be easily configured to meet specific design needs across different applications and execution classes (EXC 1 to EXC 2) within the EN 1090 standard. This flexibility is ideal for complex installations, particularly in areas with stringent structural requirements.
• Corrosion Resistance and Durability: With options for corrosion-resistant finishes, the MT-90H system is highly durable and suitable for long-term installations, even in challenging environments. This durability aligns with EN 1090 requirements for longevity and safety in permanent structures.
• Simplified Installation: The modular design of MT-90H supports efficient assembly and installation, helping to reduce time on site and minimise the potential for installation errors. This ease of use helps meet the EN 1090 standard's focus on quality and consistency in structural components.

These features collectively make the Hilti MT-90H a reliable solution for EN 1090 applications, offering both compliance and performance for a variety of structural support needs.


Figure 4: MT Heavy-duty system and MP-MI clamps


Are you interested in learning more about the support we can offer with modular support systems, you can find more information here or contact 6777 7887 to be put in contact with our Hilti engineer.

You are also welcome to ask us for support: simply leave a comment or post your question in the community, or improve your knowledge and skills via our Webinars or training sessions.