If you are an experienced operator, it is possible to follow the ECOL programme with a reduced duration. The training time required for different levels of experience is shown below:
- Crane operators with less than four years (48 months) experience must complete the full training and examination.
- Crane operators with four to eight years (49 to 96 months) of operating experience must complete three weeks of training, consisting of 40 hours of practical training and 80 hours of theory, and take the examination.
- Crane operators with eight years or more (> 96 months) of operating experience must complete one week of training, consisting of 16 hours of practical training and 16 hours of theory, followed by an examination.
Operators wishing to apply for a reduced training period should contact an ECOL certified Training Institute to have their application for a reduced training period prepared and sent to the ECTOL Foundation. An application for a reduced course duration due to previous experience requires the operator to demonstrate that
- he holds a national licence;
- he has a record of experience (employment as an operator) signed by previous employer(s).
ECOL charges a fee for assessing this application.