One year after a new tower crane regulation came into effect, WorkSafeBC is reporting good compliance across tower crane operations in B.C., although risks remain.
Since Oct. 1, 2024, employers have been required to submit a Notice of Project (NOP) to WorkSafeBC at least two weeks before any tower crane work begins, including assembly, climbing, repositioning, or dismantling. The NOP–Tower Crane requirements enable WorkSafeBC to understand who will perform the work, and when, where, and how it will be carried out.
In 2024, the crane inspection team conducted more than 1,500 inspections across B.C. and issued over 800 orders, including 75 stop-use orders and 36 stop-work orders.
In its first year, WorkSafeBC received more than 900 NOP–Tower Crane submissions. WorkSafeBC is continuing to work with employers to ensure that submissions include the right planning and safety information. Where employer NOP submissions are incomplete or reveal gaps in risk controls, WorkSafeBC officers follow up with inspections, as appropriate.
Among the information that must be confirmed in the NOP–Tower Crane regulation are names of all employers responsible for the crane activity, the nature and scope of the crane activity, safe-work procedures specific to the workplace, the qualifications of the qualified supervisor, and identification information for the tower crane.
As part of the crane strategy, risks are being addressed through a number of mechanisms, including reviewing and refining crane and rigging regulations; strengthening operator certification; enhancing inspection requirements; expanding inspection capacity and expertise; elevating workforce training and skills; and supporting the BC Association for Crane Safety in delivering certification and employer/worker support.
WorkSafeBC brought together approximately 150 stakeholders in the crane sector, including labour representatives, tower crane operators, employers, prime contractors, rental companies, and the BC Association for Crane Safety to identify and address gaps in crane safety.
