About BC Crane Safety

Crane Operator Certification and Licensing Authority for BC

BC Crane Safety was formed in 2005 to create a certification program for crane operators in British Columbia. We have worked with more than 50 different industries that use cranes to develop a world-class program. We also work with regulators, crane operators, owners, governments, and many others.

Our program is competency-based. That means our program includes theory and practical tests. Crane operators need to demonstrate what they know and can do safely and professionally no matter where or how they gained their skills. This is unique in Canada.

As of 2023, we have certified more than 30,326 operators on 11 crane types. We’ve supported them and their employers through their careers. The result is a vast improvement in the safety record of crane operations in BC. Our main funder is WorkSafeBC.

We oversee the certification program so we do not offer training or testing. We use an independent assessment partner so we avoid conflicts of interest and maintain high quality standards.

We produce guidance materials to support safe work practices. We use our research to make sure our certification system is current and effective. We also promote crane operations as an attractive professional career for new workers.

Crane operators certified by BC Crane Safety are among the most highly skilled in the world. We have agreements supporting labour mobility between BC, the USA and the European Union. BC’s operators are in global demand and can enjoy access to work in a growing number of other countries.