What is the Eurocode?
The Eurocode is a series of European technical standards for the design and calculation of building structures. The standards replace older national standards (such as the British BS 5950 series) and ensure that engineers throughout Europe calculate structures using the same rules.
Structure of the Eurocodes
The Eurocode comprises ten main codes, each with several parts:
| Eurocode | Subject |
|---|---|
| EN 1990 | Basis of structural design |
| EN 1991 | Actions on structures |
| EN 1992 | Concrete and reinforced concrete |
| EN 1993 | Steel structures |
| EN 1994 | Composite steel-concrete structures |
| EN 1995 | Timber structures |
| EN 1996 | Masonry |
| EN 1997 | Geotechnical design |
| EN 1998 | Seismic design |
| EN 1999 | Aluminium structures |
Application
In most European countries the Eurocode is mandatory through national building regulations. Every structural design must comply with the Eurocode rules.
National Annex
Although the Eurocode is European, each country has its own National Annex (NA). This contains country-specific parameters:
- Wind loads — depending on geographical location
- Snow loads — vary by region
- Safety factors — may differ per country
- Seismic zones — relevant for southern Europe and some areas
In the UK the National Annex is published as BS EN xxxx NA.
Limit states
The Eurocode uses two types of limit states:
- ULS (Ultimate Limit State) — structure must not fail
- SLS (Serviceability Limit State) — structure must remain usable (no excessive deflection, cracking or vibration)
Who uses it?
The Eurocode is used by:
- Structural engineers — for all structural calculations
- Architects — for the basics of safe design
- Contractors — for execution to code
- Building control — for plan checking
Related terms
- Structural design
- Standards
- Building regulations
- Loading
- Consequence class
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