On July 6, 2026 the Government of British Columbia announced Mobile Crane Operator and Tower Crane Operator will become Skilled Trades Certification (compulsory) trades. A one-year transition period starts July 6, 2026, allowing sufficient time for affected tradespeople and employers to meet the new requirements.
“Mobile Cranes” referenced in this announcement means large mobile cranes with lifting capacities over 80 tonnes. (Mobile cranes with capacities of 80 tonnes or less and Folding Boom or Stiff Boom cranes of any size are excluded from this announcement.)
“Tower Cranes” referenced does not include Self Erecting Tower Cranes.
For existing operators who have a Red Seal or Certificate of Qualification as a Mobile Crane or Tower Crane operator, nothing changes and you are not required to do anything.
Similarly, if you are already a registered apprentice as a Mobile Crane or Tower Crane operator, no further action is required.
Fulford Certification’s issued certificates for operators of:
- Mobile Crane 20 Tonnes & Under
- Self Erect Tower Crane
- Stiff Boom 40 Tonnes & Under
- Stiff Boom 20 Tonnes & Under
- Folding Boom 22 Tonnes & Under
- Folding Boom 10 Tonnes & Under
are not affected by this announcement and will continue to be issued by Fulford Certification as usual.
For more information, please contact Skilled Trades BC.