Mines are notoriously dangerous spaces, and insufficient training is often a leading cause of fatalities in the mine. While practical training within the mine itself is useful, it offers limited exposure to real-life disaster situations. Virtual reality training is an asset to the industry, as it allows workers to place themselves within realistic, hazardous working conditions and emergency situations within the associated risks or dangers of disastrous consequences. We take a look at the benefits of virtual reality training and how it serves as an effective tool for disaster management within the mining industry.
Mines include many dangerous components and equipment which, if used incorrectly, can cause a disaster. Controlled explosives are a crucial feature of mining operations, and these can be dangerous and even cause fatalities if they are handled improperly. If these explosives are not placed in the correct locations and measured precisely, rocks may fracture unexpectedly and create hazards both underground and above the surface. Underground fires and gas explosions are additional potential emergency situations which are simply too dangerous to recreate in reality as part of safety training exercises. That’s where virtual reality disaster management comes in.
When a trainee puts on their VR headset, they’ll be immersed within a virtual environment that replicates their mining site. The VR mine site will contain the particular objects workers might find when they enter the mine, and trainees can freely explore the site and interact with these objects as part of their educational journey. As part of their training, they can even interact with VR field engineers and other workers to learn proper procedures and simulate exercises. By incorporating digital twin technology within training exercises, virtual reality encourages trainees to form greater familiarity with the site and to virtually practice the exercises and techniques they’ll need to perform in real-life scenarios. Ultimately, this encourages higher retention of information and better safety outcomes.
As part of disaster management exercises and training, users will be exposed to simulated emergency situations, such as accidents or rescues. They’ll be led through proper safety techniques, will be tested on their emergency preparedness, and will be encouraged to assess the impact of their decision-making in a safe, controlled setting. VR safety training allows for the development of disaster management techniques and emergency responsiveness without any detriment, risk or negative consequence to others on site.
With VR mining training, disaster management in the sector has never been easier. Workers can confidently prepare for disaster situations, develop an emergency response plan and rehearse it within a controlled environment to assess its reliability and effectiveness. As a result, mining companies will save time and money in addressing disasters when they arise – and potentially even save lives, too. When exploring the benefits and potential of VR training for their sites, mining companies need to engage with a creative studio business or VR/AR company that’s willing to go the distance and match their particular needs. At 3D Walkabout, we’re exactly that. Our VR training services and VR resources harness the best of Metaverse technology and are designed to help mining trainees develop knowledge, techniques and confidence in a safe, controlled setting.
Summary: How virtual reality improves mining disaster management
Virtual reality (VR) is transforming disaster management in mining by immersing trainees in realistic and hazardous scenarios.
VR allows mining personnel to practice safety procedures, interact with objects, and learn from digital twin technology.
Trainees experience simulated emergency situations, improving their emergency preparedness and decision-making skills.
VR training offers cost-effective and time-efficient disaster preparedness, potentially saving lives and resources for mining companies.
Partnering with VR/AR experts ensures tailored VR training solutions for mining industry needs.
FAQs
Is VR training cost effective?
When it comes to training and education, virtual reality (VR) can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional classroom lectures. VR lets students experience a real-life scenario in a safe environment that’s not only more engaging but also more cost-efficient.
Is VR training good?
Virtual reality (VR) training is a great way to train employees. It can be used for training employees on how to use a specific piece of equipment or software, as well as teaching them how to perform their jobs in the real world. It’s also useful for educating employees on how to handle a new situation or scenario.
How virtual reality is used in training?
Virtual reality is used in training to simulate real-world situations. It can be used to train a variety of skills, from operating heavy machinery to flying an aeroplane. This is accomplished by using a headset that has built-in headphones, which allow the user to hear what’s going on around them. The headset also blocks out all other sounds.
How do you start virtual reality training?
The first step in virtual reality training is to decide what kind of experience you want to provide your employees with. Do you want them to have an immersive experience with 3D visuals? Do you want them to feel like they’re there? Or do you just want them to learn how different tools work?
What is virtual reality training?
Virtual reality (VR) training is a way to train employees using computer-generated environments that mimic real-world situations. These environments can be created with video game engines or 3D modelling software, and they can be used to simulate any number of scenarios.
What is mining of VR?
VR in mining allows mining operatives to develop skills and experience without entering a mining facility. By creating a virtual world that simulates a mine, operatives can learn about the various tools, techniques and training that are essential for safe mining from the safety of a completely virtual environment.
