How To Fix CM_EHCSM_SPC_API_CMN018 - Source specification is being edited; copying is currently not permitted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CM_EHCSM_SPC_API_CMN - Messages specific for specification access API

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Source specification is being edited; copying is currently not permitted

What causes this issue?

You want to copy a specification. However, the source specification is
currently being edited and has an existing foreign lock.

System Response

The system failed to retrieve the source specification and its data with
an exclusive lock.

How to fix this error?

You can only copy a source specification to a target specification when
there is no existing foreign lock. Try copying the source specification
again later once the foreign lock is released.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CM_EHCSM_SPC_API_CMN018 - Source specification is being edited; copying is currently not permitted ?

  The SAP error message CM_EHCSM_SPC_API_CMN018 indicates that a source specification is currently being edited, and as a result, copying is not permitted at that moment. This error typically occurs in the context of SAP's Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) module, particularly when dealing with specifications or data that are in use.
  Cause:
  
  Active Editing Session: The source specification you are trying to copy is open in another session or is being edited by another user.
  Lock Mechanism: SAP uses a locking mechanism to prevent data inconsistencies. If a specification is locked for editing, it cannot be copied until the lock is released.
  User Permissions: There may be restrictions based on user roles or permissions that prevent copying while a specification is being edited.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check for Active Sessions: Ensure that the source specification is not open in another session. If it is, close that session or save and exit the editing mode.
  Wait for Release: If another user is editing the specification, you may need to wait until they finish and release the lock.
  Refresh the System: Sometimes, simply refreshing the session or logging out and back in can resolve temporary locking issues.
  Check User Permissions: Ensure that your user role has the necessary permissions to copy specifications. If not, contact your SAP administrator to adjust your permissions.
  Use Transaction Codes: If you are familiar with SAP transaction codes, you can use transaction codes like SE11 or SE37 to check for locks on the object.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP EHS documentation for more details on managing specifications and understanding the locking mechanism.
  Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support or your internal IT support team for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and successfully copy the source specification once it is no longer being edited.