19 Apr 2018
Following the endorsement of
Virtual Reality (VR) training by the International Powered Access
Federation (IPAF) earlier this year, Nationwide Platforms is set to become the
first company in the UK to utilise the technology to complement its powered
access training.
Partnering with Serious
Labs, a Canadian developer of virtual reality training solutions and operations,
Nationwide Platforms has invested in a number of VR simulators to assist with
the development of powered access operators in a safe and controlled
environment. While the technology was originally developed for boom lift
operators, Nationwide Platforms has worked with Serious Labs to create a series
of training courses around the operation of scissor lifts. Nationwide Platforms
expects to take delivery of the simulators in April.
Peter Douglas, UK
Operations Director of Nationwide Platforms, said: “As the European
market-leader in delivering powered access training, we are always looking for
new ways to assist the training needs of our customers. Our new VR training will
combine ground-breaking virtual reality with a true-to-life look and feel of
operating an access platform. Designed to fully complement our range of IPAF
training, we are confident this blended learning approach will ultimately lead
to more rounded and competent operators.”
After working in close
conjunction with customers to assess the industry’s training needs, Nationwide
Platforms has developed four courses to cater for varying levels of experience:
Introduction
to Powered Access – an entry
level course that highlights the uses and risks around using powered access for
new users.
Operator
Mid-term Assessment – IPAF card
holders are put through various scenarios to refresh and re-familiarise themselves
with the safe operation of boom lifts and scissor lifts. As well as
highlighting any potential training needs, operators will also receive updates
on the latest guidance and regulations.
Operator
Skills Assessment –
experienced IPAF card holders are put through scenarios of increasing
difficulty to demonstrate competency. They are also able to practise
site-specific applications in preparation for being on site.
Risk
Awareness Workshop - for anyone
who plans, supervises or manages working at height activities to gain an
appreciation of the risks that operators face and the control measures that can
be implemented.
Each VR unit comprises a
replica access platform basket and control panel as well as a
full-motion-tracking VR headset and actuator motion base that realistically
mimic the sensation of operating a boom and scissor lift. Boasting a compact
footprint (1.2m x 2.4m), the units will be located at Nationwide Platforms’
training centres throughout the UK and can be easily transferred to
customer/project sites if required.
Covering a range of
applications – including different ground conditions, restricted access,
overhead hazards and loading and unloading – performance and learning metrics
allow trainers to provide live feedback on driving skills, behaviour and safe
operation. Trainers are also able to identify areas in which further training or
refamiliarisation may be required.
Douglas added: “We feel this
technology perfectly bridges the gap between theory and practical training. The VR simulators will allow operators to work through complex
scenarios replicating real-life training hazards without the risk. The ability
for operators to make mistakes in a safe and controlled environment not only
prepares them for how to react to danger, but also ultimately provides them with valuable experience
that we feel will reduce the number of accidents on site as well as damage to
buildings and equipment.”
-
End –
Nationwide Platforms Limited
Website
T: 0845 7450000
15 Midland Court
Central Park
LE17 4PN
Lutterworth, Leicestershire
United Kingdom
Create a business listing on the SHP directory
Download our media pack, and find out how we can meet your needs with a range of pricing options.