What is ECOL ?

ECOL is a European licensing system for operators of mobile cranes [as defined by the EN-13000 construction standard].

ECOL Licence 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.The training itself is done by ECOL certified training institutes established in the various EU countries. They will also arrange a local examination via an ECOL certified examination institute.

The ECOL standard has different training programs for novice operators and for experienced operators, who already have a national licence and a number of years of operating experience.

ECOL Training and requirements

The ECOL training and examination can be done in English, or in your own language, provided there is a training institute in your country. To take part in an ECOL training course and examination, you must meet the following requirements:

• 18 years or older
• medically fit according to truck driver licence regulations, with unimpeded hearing capabilities
• in possession of a truck drivers (C-class) licence

Certification routes

There are three certification routes under ECOL:

• New Operators: For apprentices and registered apprentices.
• Experienced Operators: For operators who have experience as a crane operator
• Licence conversion: Recognition process for operators who are already certified in another jurisdiction.

Experience Registration

After obtaining your ECOL licence, you must log your crane operating experience on a weekly basis in the SkillRecord experience registration system. This log should include the type of crane operated and the type of work carried out. The experience log will help you demonstrate your experience to ECOL, new employers or customers.

ECOL Coverage

Countries that presently accept the ECOL licence:

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

ECOL Brochure