How To Fix PT_TMW_HEADER_CUST004 - Table &1 already being processed by user &2 in client &3

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PT_TMW_HEADER_CUST - TMW: Customizing Employee Data

• Message number: 004

• Message text: Table &1 already being processed by user &2 in client &3

What causes this issue?

You maintain client-independent tables in this view. Users can
sometimes lock each other out of view maintainance even in different
clients.

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?

Display the data (read-only) and/or inform the user who is locking data
maintenance.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PT_TMW_HEADER_CUST004 - Table &1 already being processed by user &2 in client &3 ?

  The SAP error message PT_TMW_HEADER_CUST004 indicates that a specific table (denoted as &1) is currently being processed by another user (denoted as &2) in the specified client (denoted as &3). This typically occurs in the context of time management or payroll processing, where concurrent access to certain tables is restricted to prevent data inconsistencies.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: The error arises when two users attempt to access or modify the same data simultaneously. This is a common issue in systems where multiple users are working on similar tasks.
  Locking Mechanism: SAP uses a locking mechanism to ensure data integrity. When one user is processing a table, it locks that table for other users until the processing is complete.
  Long-running Transactions: If a transaction takes too long to complete, it can lead to other users encountering this error while trying to access the same table.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait and Retry: The simplest solution is to wait for the other user to complete their transaction. Once the lock is released, you can try to access the table again.
  Identify the User: If you have the necessary permissions, you can identify the user who is currently processing the table. This can be done using transaction codes like SM12 (to view lock entries) or SM66 (to view active processes).
  Communicate with the User: If possible, communicate with the user who is holding the lock to understand their timeline and whether they can expedite their process.
  Check for Long-running Jobs: If the issue persists, check for any long-running background jobs that might be holding locks on the table. You can use transaction SM37 to monitor background jobs.
  System Configuration: In some cases, it may be necessary to review the system configuration or settings related to locking behavior, especially if this is a frequent issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SM12 (to view and manage locks), SM37 (to monitor background jobs), and SM66 (to view active processes).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on best practices for processing data in SAP to minimize the chances of encountering locking issues.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or support for further investigation.