Prepare for the New Regulatory Amendment NOP-TC

Prepare for the New Regulatory Amendment Related to Notice of Project – Tower Crane (NOP-TC) 

// September 24, 2024

The amendments, set to come into effect on October 1, 2024, pertain to the Notice of Project requirements for tower cranes as outlined in Part 14 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHSR). These changes are designed to improve the management and safety of tower crane activities, specifically during erection, climbing, repositioning and dismantling. 

Major Changes Include:

  • Definition and Scope of “Qualified Supervisor”: The amendments clarify the role of a “qualified supervisor” as someone specifically qualified to manage the erection, climbing, repositioning, or dismantling of a tower crane, enhancing accountability and safety. 
  • Repositioning Exclusions: Specific exclusions to the definition of “repositioning” have been defined, stating that horizontal movement along a rail or track as part of normal operations does not constitute repositioning. 
  • Comprehensive Notification Requirements: There is a strengthened requirement for employers to submit a detailed notice of project to the Board at least two weeks before commencing crane activities, including detailed information about the crane, project and supervisors. 

The information required by the regulation must be posted at the workplace, indicating that WorkSafeBC is aware of the crane activity and providing contact information for any inquiries or concerns. 

How to Prepare:  

Understanding New Definitions: Stakeholders should familiarize themselves with the revised definitions and exclusions, particularly regarding what constitutes “repositioning” and the qualifications of a “qualified supervisor.” 

Compliance with Notice Requirements: It’s crucial for employers to ensure compliance with the new notice requirements. This involves preparing and submitting detailed project notices to the Board well in advance and updating any changes promptly. As of October 1, every BC employer responsible for any tower crane activity described above must ensure that WorkSafeBC receives a written NOP-TC at least two weeks before the tower crane activity starts. The NOP-TC must include: 

  • The names and contact information for the parties responsible for the tower crane activity 
  • Address or location of the workplace 
  • Nature and scope of the tower crane activity 
  • Start and estimated end dates of the tower crane activity 
  • The make, type, model, serial number, and configuration of the tower crane 
  • A site-specific workplan for the workplace during tower crane activity 
  • The qualifications of the person identified as the qualified supervisor for the tower crane activity or confirmation that this person has their qualifications registered with BC Crane Safety 

Documentation and Training: Employers should maintain rigorous documentation and make sure their training programs meet the qualifications for supervisors specified in the amendments. Ensuring that all supervisors are up to date with their qualifications and training will be key to compliance.

BC Crane Safety is currently working with WorkSafeBC and the industry to develop several resources to assist you with the regulatory amendment. A tower crane site binder checklist with Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHSR) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) references is available. Visit our Tower Crane Site Binder page for more details. 

Tower Crane Site Binder

If you have any questions regarding the Regulatory Amendment Related to Notice of Project – Tower Crane (NOP-TC), please contact BC Crane Safety.