Crucially, the testing must be witnessed or evaluated by a (e.g., a quality control lab that reports to a different management chain). This ensures internal independence.

"We hereby declare that the supplied steel bars conform to the requirements of order PO-12345." 2. Type 2.2 – Test Report Formal Name: Test report Issued by: Manufacturer Third-party verification: None (but based on non-specific inspections)

The standard outlines four main types of inspection documents, designated by numbers: . The higher the number, the greater the level of verification and third-party involvement.

Introduction In the world of industrial manufacturing, construction, and engineering, trust is a commodity as valuable as the materials themselves. When a steel beam is used in a skyscraper, a pipe in a chemical plant, or a forging in an aircraft landing gear, the buyer needs absolute assurance that the material meets specified requirements. This is where EN 10204 comes into play.

For engineers, procurement specialists, and quality managers, understanding EN 10204 is not optional – it is essential to avoid costly liability, ensure regulatory compliance, and build products that are truly fit for purpose. The next time you see “EN 10204 Type 3.1” on a purchase order, you will know exactly what level of trust and traceability is being demanded. Disclaimer: This write-up is for informational purposes. Always consult the official EN 10204:2004 standard and relevant product specifications for legal and contractual compliance.

Type 2.1 is the most basic declaration. The manufacturer simply states, on a document they produce, that the products supplied comply with the requirements of the order. No test results are provided, and no reference is made to specific inspections. It is essentially a commercial statement of good faith.

The test results are representative but not traceable to the exact delivery.