Purpose of the training 

The aim of the rail crane operator training course is to obtain the qualifications required for the position of operator of these machines from the Office of Technical Inspection. You will gain this qualification by completing our course, where you will learn more about the construction of the equipment, its safe and efficient operation and current regulations.  

rail crane in operation

Training of rail crane operators 

The training begins with a theoretical part, in which you will be introduced to, among other things: health and safety regulations, the design and construction of the rail crane, as well as its use for work in construction and transport. In addition, you will learn the most relevant information on current regulations and UDT supervision. You will then participate in the practical part, which includes: learning how to operate the machine, how to use it and how to move it efficiently with our machine facilities. The training is covered by UDT regulations. 

Rail crane operator examination 

The Office of Technical Inspection conducts a state examination for the UDT licence, which is divided into a theoretical and a practical part. The theoretical part consists of a test with closed, single-choice questions. The practical part, on the other hand, involves the examiner demonstrating his/her skills in the safe operation of the equipment by performing tasks on the manoeuvring area. A specially convened committee will decide on the results of the examination. A successful examination qualifies you to receive your UDT licence as a rail crane operator. 

Validity of UDT certificates 

The UDT issues certificates for both maintainers and operators of rail cranes with an expiry date of five years. This document allows you to take up a job as a rail crane operator or maintainer. It is recognised throughout Poland, as well as in countries belonging to the European Union and the Swiss Confederation, and in countries which are part of the European Free Trade Agreement.

Conditions for prospective students 

rail crane at rest

As recommended by the Office of Technical Inspection, trainees, prior to the training and examination, should: 

  • be adults, 
  • have a valid medical examination, 
  • have a minimum of primary education, 
  • conditionally required to be certified to work at heights, 
  • It is also worth having a category B driving licence. 

Classification of cranes  

When taking up a job as a crane operator, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the classification of these machines, available at our Centre. You can broaden your qualifications with us to include other equipment. We distinguish between them on the basis of: type of base, types of assembly, swivel mechanisms, capacity limits and type of drive. Available are: 

  • rail-mounted cranes, 
  • tower and high-speed cranes, 
  • railway cranes and on railway vehicles, 
  • deck cranes, 
  • floating cranes, 
  • stationary cranes, 
  • mobile and transportable cranes, 
  • mobile cranes. 

Where do we train? 

We conduct operator and maintenance training courses, in accordance with UDT standards, at our headquarters in Warsaw and in other cities throughout Poland. Additionally, we offer the service of conducting courses at a location designated by the customer. We offer open training for anyone interested and closed training for organised groups. 

Take a look at our other course offerings 

  • TDT entitlements, 
  • UNO - use, risks and TDT powers, 
  • UDT equipment maintainer, 
  • aerial work platform maintainer, 
  • scissor lift operator, 
  • mobile platform operator, 
  • UDT/TDT/WDT entitlements, 
  • operation of pressure equipment, 
  • UDT training, 
  • maintenance of materials handling equipment, 
  • maintainer of equipment for the disabled, 
  • construction machinery operator, 
  • forklift operator, 
  • mobile platform operator, 
  • flange fitter. 

Questions and answers

Where is the training provided?

We conduct our courses both in Warsaw and at other locations throughout Poland, as well as at locations specified by clients in the case of training courses with travel to the client's premises. 

For how long are UDT certificates valid for rail crane operators?

The Office of Technical Inspection issues these certificates with a validity of five years.