BC Crane Operator Designations

BC Crane Operator Designations

BC Crane Operator – Full Scope

The BC Crane Operator – Full Scope certification has no restrictions. It allows the holder to operate the type of crane they certified on as well as cranes in lower classifications. The Full Scope certificate was formerly called “Level A”.

BC Crane Operator – Provisional

The BC Crane Operator – Provisional designation, formerly called “Level B”, allows the holder to operate a crane under supervision while in training. It is the first step toward earning a Full Scope certificate.

There are specific requirements for supervision including the qualifications of the supervisor, the employer’s responsibilities, and how certain types of lifts need to be supervised.

Credential Recognition – Other Jurisdictions

Crane operators with government-issued credentials from other Canadian provinces and territories, the USA, Ireland, the UK, and some European countries may be able to work in BC if approved by BC Crane Safety. If you are from one of these other jurisdictions you must apply to BC Crane Safety to obtain a BC Crane Operator designation matching your original credential. You will need to have a provisional designation to work in BC until your home credential is approved by BC Crane Safety.

BC Crane Operator – Limited Scope (Fixed Location) 

A BC Crane Operator – Limited Scope (Fixed Location) designation used to be called a “Level D”. It allows the operator to use a crane at a specific address for an employer. The designation is restricted to that address and is held in the employer’s name. The employer is responsible for verifying and/or providing the operator’s training. The employer must also provide supervision, planning and oversight of all lifts. The employer is responsible for all lifts.

If the operator changes employers, the certificate is no longer valid.

Crane Mechanic (Limited Scope, Non-commercial Lift)

A Crane Mechanic (Limited Scope, Non-commercial Lift) designation allows the mechanic to operate a crane to repair it for an employer. The mechanic is not allowed to make commercial lifts. The employer is responsible for all lifts.

Letter of Permission

It is good for six months and is not renewable. To go ahead with training, the employer must sign-off on a provisional designation for the employee and agree to provide proper supervision and training.

A person with a Letter of Permission must be always under the direct supervision of a qualified full scope operator. That means the supervisor must be close enough to see what the operator is doing and give verbal directions.

No critical lifts are allowed, even under supervision.