{"id":3969,"date":"2026-04-29T08:29:41","date_gmt":"2026-04-29T06:29:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/steelelement.ee\/?p=3969"},"modified":"2026-04-29T08:37:14","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T06:37:14","slug":"en-1090-2-exc-2-vs-exc-3-comparison","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/steelelement.ee\/en\/en-1090-2-exc-2-vs-exc-3-comparison\/","title":{"rendered":"EN 1090-2 EXC 2 vs EXC 3: how to choose the right execution class for your steel structure?"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you are planning a steel structure project \u2014 be it an industrial building, warehouse, bridge, or shopping center \u2014 at some point you will encounter the term EN 1090-2 Execution Class (EXC)<\/strong>. This article explains what EXC classes are, how they differ, and how to choose the right level for your project.<\/p>\n

What is EN 1090-2 and execution classes?<\/h2>\n

EN 1090-2<\/strong> is the European harmonized standard governing the design, manufacture, and installation of steel structures. It has been mandatory in the EU since 2014. The standard defines four execution classes (EXC)<\/strong>: EXC 1 (lowest), EXC 2 (medium), EXC 3 (high), EXC 4 (extreme cases). The class depends on importance, loads, and consequences of failure.<\/p>\n

EXC 1 \u2014 light structures<\/h2>\n

Suitable for low-load facilities \u2014 fences, light canopies, small agricultural buildings. Rare in practice as most load-bearing structures need at least EXC 2.<\/p>\n

EXC 2 \u2014 most ordinary buildings<\/h2>\n

The most common class. Suits offices, warehouses, smaller industrial buildings, apartment blocks, commercial centers. Material traceability, certified welders, welding engineer, and quality control plan are mandatory.<\/p>\n

EXC 3 \u2014 high-responsibility structures<\/h2>\n

Required for structures whose failure could have serious consequences:<\/p>\n