Virtual Reality for Mining
MINE site inductions are synonymous with being necessary; however often dry, boring, and forgettable.
Mining operations are now acknowledging the value of virtual reality training; shifting site inductions to become a significant opportunity to proactively mitigate risk.
With the use of Immersive’s WorksiteVR Quest, this is being achieved with exceptional results.
Immersive Technologies has more than 24 years’ experience in developing high-end training simulators for the mining and earthmoving industries and has developed a series of virtual reality scenarios designed to facilitate a blended learning model in conjunction with eLearning and practical activities.
Custom-made mine sites can be created to cover topics ranging from identification of correct PPE to refuge chamber access and procedures; and training sessions can be easily conducted and developed in different languages.
The WorksiteVR Quest equipment includes a high-end PC, monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, and headphones.
In addition to the virtual reality headset, two wireless hand controls are packed up into a sturdy transportable case.
Recently, the company completed a project for Rio Tinto’s Oyu Tolgoi mine site in Mongolia.
This involved creating three scenarios covering the correct use and identification of personal protection equipment (PPE), identification of workplace hazards and emergency evacuation procedures.
Over the course of a six-month period, Oyu Tolgoi trainers ran 1100 employees through both the traditional courseware and a course integrating Immersive’s WorksiteVR Quest.
Through a series of surveys, it was determined that there was a significant improvement in the learning retention rates and satisfaction of the users that went through the WorksiteVR Quest program.
Mining personnel are now completing their induction possessing the confidence that they can apply their learnings and safely deal with emergency situations with an increased level of information retention.
Along with further induction and safety awareness projects, Immersive has also received requests ranging from basic machine maintenance and operation to working from heights and critical risk management training.
Advanced understanding in the complexity of mining operations; training know-how and customer support; as well as a dedicated research and development team staying current on latest technological advancements, ensures Immersive Technologies continues to provide the best possible products and services to its clients.