The Application of Virtual Reality for Hazard Identification Training in the Context of Machinery Safety: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

In order to successfully acquire knowledge in area of machinery safety for engineering students it is necessary to adopt elementary principles associated with risk assessment. Identification of possible hazards is an important part of risk assessment and engineering students need to take part also in hands-on training to supplement their learning process. It is clear that one major obstacle to improve safety training is the problem of allowing learners to work directly with hazardous equipment. Traditional approach is based on the use of slide show presentations enhanced by animations or videos. This training method is passive in nature and does not allow for an actual realization of consequences resulting from ignoring safety practices during interaction between the student and the machine. In order to improve the educational practice in this context, the Virtual Reality (VR) technologies could be used. The purpose of this study was to conduct a preliminary investigation to determine whether training through VR simulator is comparable to traditional training in developing the skills necessary for performing identification of possible hazards related to lathe operation. The results of this preliminary study suggest that VR based training has the potential to constitute a valid alternative to the traditional training approach.