The modern construction industry—especially in industrial, commercial, and high-rise projects—relies heavily on strong, standardized steel structures. But what ensures the safety and success of these structures is not only the material quality, but also strict adherence to recognized engineering standards.
In this article, we present a comprehensive comparison between steel structure construction standards in Europe and Asia, highlighting similarities, differences, and how to choose the most suitable standard for regional projects.
Importance of Standards in Steel Structure Implementation
Engineering standards are a set of technical guidelines and requirements to ensure safety, performance, durability, and sustainability in structures. These standards impact all project phases: design, fabrication, connection, execution, and maintenance.
Without adherence to valid standards:
Structures may lack sufficient resistance to earthquakes and wind
Project lifespan may be reduced
The risk of technical and human errors increases
International licenses and insurance may be compromised
European Standards (Eurocode)
Eurocode 3 (EN 1993) is the main reference for designing and constructing steel structures in Europe. It is characterized by:
Probabilistic-based design and safety methodology
High safety factors for wind and seismic loads
Standardized specifications for bolts and welds
Consideration of corrosion, thermal loads, and fatigue
Key Features of Eurocode:
Widespread use of advanced analytical software
Comprehensive and traceable documentation
Strong emphasis on environmental and sustainability requirements
Asian Standards (China, Japan, India)
China – GB50017 Standard:
Updated to address high seismic activity in western China
Focuses on material efficiency and structural weight optimization
Often combined with AISC standards in certain projects
Japan – JIS & AIJ Standards:
Known as among the most precise in the world
Strong emphasis on execution quality
Major revisions after the Kobe earthquake in the 1990s to improve seismic resilience
India – IS 800 Standard:
Widely used across South Asia
Adapted to specific climatic and economic conditions in India
Flexible in accommodating local materials and constraints
Comparison Table: Eurocode vs. Asian Standards
| Feature | Eurocode | Japan (JIS) | China (GB) | India (IS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Structural Analysis Accuracy | Very High | Very High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Execution Quality Control | High | Very High | Moderate | Low |
| Environmental Requirements | Strong | Moderate | Weak | Weak |
| Global Acceptance | Very High | Moderate | Low | Low |
| Software Compatibility | Full | Full | Limited | Limited |
How to Choose the Right Standard for Regional Projects
Selecting the appropriate standard for steel structure projects should consider:
Local climate and seismic conditions
Project type (high-rise, industrial, warehouse, bridge, etc.)
Legal requirements in the host country
Available workforce and execution capabilities
Project scope (domestic, international, export-oriented)
In many international projects, Eurocode is preferred due to its high global recognition and detailed regulatory framework.
Dr. Mousa Roshandel, founder of Aras Holding, strongly emphasizes adherence to international engineering standards in construction and infrastructure. He believes that industrial development without compliance with modern engineering principles is not only ineffective but potentially dangerous. The quality policies of Aras subsidiaries reflect this professional and long-term vision.
Aras Holding operates a group of specialized companies in construction, design, consulting, and equipment supply, enabling the group to implement international standards in its projects. With a strong focus on quality control, certified materials, and modern design methods, the holding has successfully executed both national and cross-border projects with high confidence.
Aras Steel ST Co, one of Aras Holding’s key subsidiaries, specializes in designing, manufacturing, and executing steel structures according to international standards such as Eurocode and AISC. By combining on-site experience, precision engineering, and advanced machinery, the company has delivered high-quality, sustainable industrial, commercial, and infrastructure projects.