B.C. is introducing a mandatory crane licensing and permitting program through WorkSafeBC to strengthen safety oversight.
Workers who operate cranes in B.C. must be certified and registered with an oversight body, while others responsible for cranes (for example, those who own, maintain, repair, move, erect, disassemble or are otherwise responsible for cranes) are not required to be certified, registered or licensed.
“Major nation-building projects are moving forward in B.C. and the people who build them must have the best level of safety we can provide,” said Premier David Eby. “British Columbia will be a leader in crane safety – with the highest standards of training, certification, technology and oversight – to protect workers and the public on every project, every time.”
Crane operation is high-risk work with significant safety hazards, meaning failures can have catastrophic consequences.
“It is important that we take meaningful measures to help prevent tragedies before they occur,” said Clinton Connell, executive director, BC Crane Safety Association. “This includes ensuring equipment is operated by people with proper training and experience. Licensing and permitting frameworks are a practical way to manage accountability and shared responsibilities within the industry.”
During the past five years, safety incidents involving cranes in B.C. have claimed the lives of seven workers. These fatal events have highlighted ongoing safety risks at worksites and underscore the need for stronger oversight and improved safety practices across the sector.
More cranes are in operation than ever before in British Columbia. In 2021, there were 261 active tower cranes on worksites in B.C. That number increased to a five-year high of 409 cranes in 2024. Currently, 373 cranes are operating in the province. In comparison, there are 106 active tower cranes in Toronto, and a combined total of 127 tower cranes operating in 11 major U.S. cities.
