ECOL – EUROPEAN CRANE OPERATORS LICENCE

Welcome to the website of ECOL, the European Crane Operators Licence framework.

What is ECOL?

ECOL is a European licensing system for operators of mobile cranes [as defined by the EN-13000 construction standard]. ECOL sets a standard for the training and examination of mobile crane operators, ensuring that the content and quality of both the training and the examination meet specific criteria.

ECOL Goals

ECOL aims to:

  • enable every crane operator in Europe to demonstrate compliance with industry standards for safe operation of mobile cranes.
  • facilitate seamless professional mobility for operators across European Member States,
    eliminating the need for redundant retraining and testing.
  • help employers assess the qualifications and experience of potential operators.
  • enable site and plant managers to check the qualifications and experience of crane operators entering their sites or plants.

ECOL Cornerstones

  • Comprehensive theoretical and practical training
  • Certified training institutes
  • Independent examinations
  • Registration of operator experience
  • Validity of licence limited to 5 years ensuring up-to-date know-how and experience

ECOL Coverage

Countries that presently accept the ECOL licence:

  • Belgium
  • Denmark
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Canada [British Colombia]