How To Fix EBR031 - &2 header records locked by user &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EBR - Message Class for Batch Records

• Message number: 031

• Message text: &2 header records locked by user &1

What causes this issue?

&V2& of the header records you have selected are locked by user &V1&.
These header records are not shown in the hit list.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

If you want to maintain these header records, carry out the function
again at a later stage.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EBR031 - &2 header records locked by user &1 ?

  The SAP error message EBR031 indicates that a header record is locked by a specific user, which prevents other users from accessing or modifying that record. This type of error typically occurs in scenarios where multiple users are trying to access the same document or record simultaneously, leading to a conflict due to the locking mechanism in SAP.
  Cause:
  
  
  Record Locking: The primary cause of this error is that the header record you are trying to access is currently locked by another user. This can happen if:
  
  A user is editing the record and has not yet saved or released it.
  A previous session did not close properly, leaving the record in a locked state.
  The system is configured to lock records for certain operations to maintain data integrity.
  
  
  
  Long-running Transactions: If a user is taking a long time to complete their transaction, it can lead to locks that prevent others from accessing the same record.
  
  
  System Issues: Occasionally, system issues or bugs can lead to records being locked incorrectly.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Wait and Retry: The simplest solution is to wait for the user who has locked the record to finish their work and release the lock. You can periodically retry accessing the record.
  
  
  Identify the Lock: Use transaction code SM12 to check for locks in the system. You can search for the user ID that is locking the record. If you have the necessary authorizations, you can also see which records are locked.
  
  
  Release the Lock: If you determine that the lock is no longer needed (for example, if the user has left the session open), you can manually release the lock using transaction code SM12. However, be cautious with this approach, as it may lead to data inconsistencies if the user is still working on the record.
  
  
  Contact the User: If possible, contact the user who has locked the record to see if they can complete their transaction or release the lock.
  
  
  Check for System Issues: If this error occurs frequently, it may be worth investigating if there are any underlying system issues or configurations that need to be addressed.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related issues.
  SM37: To monitor background jobs that may be causing locks.
  
  
  
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to properly save and exit transactions to minimize the occurrence of locked records.
  
  
  System Configuration: Review the system configuration for locking mechanisms to ensure they are set up appropriately for your business processes.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EBR031 error and understand the context in which it occurs.