How To Fix PAIS040 - Infotype &1 includes an object key and cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PAIS - Messages for PA-IS (Ad Hoc Query etc.)

• Message number: 040

• Message text: Infotype &1 includes an object key and cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

You tried to delete infotype &V1& from the InfoSet. However, this
infotype contains the object key. The InfoSet does not include any
other infotype that also contains the object key. For this reason,
infotype &V1& cannot be deleted.

System Response

The system prevents you from deleting the infotype.

How to fix this error?

Go back to InfoSet maintenance and assign a different infotype's object
key to the appropriate field group. You can then delete infotype &V1&.
The object key of InfoSets for logical databases PNP and PAP consists
only of the PERNR field. The object key of InfoSets for logical
database PCH consists of the PLVAR, OTYPE, and OBJID fields.

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 PAIS040 - Infotype &1 includes an object key and cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message PAIS040 indicates that you are trying to delete an infotype record that includes an object key, which is not allowed. This typically occurs in the context of personnel administration when you attempt to delete a record that is linked to a specific object (like an employee or a position) and is therefore protected from deletion.
  Cause:
  
  Object Key Dependency: The infotype record you are trying to delete is linked to an object key (e.g., employee number, position number) that is still active or has dependencies in the system.
  Data Integrity: SAP enforces data integrity rules to ensure that related data is not inadvertently deleted, which could lead to inconsistencies in the database.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Dependencies: Before attempting to delete the infotype record, check if there are any dependencies or related records that need to be addressed. You can do this by reviewing the infotype records associated with the object key.
  Change Status: If the infotype is no longer relevant, consider changing its status instead of deleting it. For example, you might set the record to inactive rather than deleting it outright.
  Consult with HR or Data Management: If you are unsure about the implications of deleting the record, consult with your HR department or data management team to understand the impact of the deletion.
  Use Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like PA30 (Maintain HR Master Data) to review the infotype records and their statuses. You can also use PA20 (Display HR Master Data) to view the records without making changes.
  Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete the record. Sometimes, restrictions are in place based on user roles.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Infotypes: Infotypes are data structures in SAP that store specific types of information related to personnel administration, such as personal data, organizational assignment, and payroll data.
  Object Keys: Object keys are unique identifiers for records in SAP, such as employee numbers or position IDs, which link various data points together.
  Data Management Best Practices: Always follow best practices for data management in SAP, including regular audits of infotype records and ensuring that data is kept up to date.
  
  If you continue to face issues or if the record is critical, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.