Tower Crane 

Operator 

Tower Crane Operators are calm, decisive and coordinated professionals who take on the challenge of lifting heavy loads to great heights while ensuring the safety of everyone around them.

As a Tower Crane Operator, you’ll enjoy taking on a challenging and satisfying role where you’re responsible for the safe movement of building materials and equipment.  

You'll maintain focus on the task at hand. At the same time, you’ll be an expert in understanding the various procedures that go into a safe lift, including proper load and lifting capacities.

What You'll Learn

  • How to follow safe operation procedures 
  • How to identify various crane components  
  • How to install and inspect wire rope and rigging 
  • How to determine load and lifting capacity 
  • How to operate, transport and maintain a tower crane  

Key Job Skills

  • Coordination and focus 
  • Regulatory compliance procedures 
  • Safe work procedures 
  • Rigging and hoisting  
  • Crane operations and maintenance 

Technical Training

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

Technical Training 10 weeks over 2 years
Work-Based Training
2650 HOURS

BC Crane Safety registration is required for all crane operators in British Columbia. Crane Operator certification in British Columbia is mandatory by virtue of the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC). BC Crane Safety Registration forms are available at www.bccranesafety.ca

Program Updates

  • September 2024: For information regarding transition, please see the Program Update

  • August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)

  • August 2024: OPSN 2024 017 (Changes to practical assessment prerequisites)

  • June 2021: OPSN 2021 007 (Minimum operating requirement clarifications)

  • OPSN Archives

Information for BC CofQ Holders

If you already hold a Tower Crane Operator BC Certificate of Qualification (CofQ), your certification is still valid and no action is required. If you wish to earn a Red Seal Endorsement on your BC CofQ, you may do so by writing and passing the Tower Crane Operator Interprovincial Red Seal exam. View Forms.

Practical Assessment Information

To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification

Program (2024) Information and Resources

Effective October 1, 2024

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

  • August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)

Information:

Updates:

  • August 2024: OPSN 2024 018 (Revised Program Outline, Profile and SLEs effective October 1, 2024)

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

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Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.