Virtual reality training: learn and manage construction sites risks

Using Virtual reality (VR) training in construction sites makes work easier and reduces risks on site. Discover all the benefits!

There is a considerable risks for workers in the construction sector, with an increasing likelihood of accidents having more or less serious repercussions. Today, however, you can count on the help of technology to mitigate risks, improving safety on site thus reducing the number of accidents and injuries in the workplace.

Thanks to Immersive Virtual Reality (VRi) workers can acquire valuable skills and knowledge in a safe and controlled environment. Without being exposed to the dangers and risks typical of construction sites. In this article we’ll see how training with virtual reality can help to learn and manage construction site’s risks: taking advantage of the Real-Time rendering and Virtual Reality of the BIM model, you can live a completely immersive experience of your construction site simulating risk scenarios useful for the preparation and training of workers.

Using virtual reality in the construction industry

Overview of Virtual Reality Technologies for Training

VR technology provides professionals and businesses in the AEC sector with tools they need to realistically reproduce work environments and activities and to create a collaborative virtual space where people can work, learn and explore together. Below I want to tell you what are the most important aspects affecting this technology which is gradually becoming part of our lives.

Virtual Reality Devices

There are several types of virtual reality devices on the market, including headsets, gloves and haptic suits. These devices allow users to immerse themselves in a three-dimensional virtual environment and interact with it through movements and gestures. Some examples of headsets are definitely HTC VIVE, HTC VIVE PRO, Oculus Rift, Oculus Rift S.

Software and applications

There are training applications for virtual reality compatible with the various devices available. This software simulates specific situations and scenarios in the construction industry, allowing workers to gain practical experience in a virtual environment.

The positive aspect of these software is that they create immersive experiences from different points of view; these are:

architecture virtual reality software that allows you to use this technology for all architecture and interior design projects;
site management BIM software, where thanks to IVR you can understand in advance your site, how it will evolve over time and where or how activities will take place foreseeing potential risks;
the BIM metaverse, which transforms the digital model into a virtual environment where different professional figures can meet, interact and work in an immersive way.

Advantages of virtual reality training in the construction industry

In construction, virtual reality-based training is significantly more effective than traditional training. The main advantages can be identified in the following points.

Safety and risk reduction

One of the main advantages of virtual reality in training is the possibility of training in a safe and controlled environment. Thanks to the VRI, workers can familiarize themselves with the risks. As well as the dangerous situations typical of construction sites without being exposed to situations of real danger. In this way reducing the risk of accidents at work and a greater safety is guaranteed for all participants.

Practical experience and stakeholders’ involvement

Training through virtual reality enables workers to gain practical experience more effectively than traditional training. Users are immersed in an interactive three-dimensional environment and can directly experience simulated situations. Therefore making learning more engaging and memorable.

Saving time and costs

The use of virtual reality in training can lead to considerable time and cost savings. Training sessions can be repeated endlessly. Without the need to set up expensive training sets or interrupting operations on the site. In addition, the possibility of distance learning reduces the costs associated with travel and accommodation for training courses.

Use of virtual reality for training in site risk management

VR technology provides professionals and businesses in the AEC sector with the tools they need to realistically reproduce work environments and activities creating a collaborative virtual space where people can work, learn and explore together.

Trainees on virtual reality’s based simulations become aware of situations and experiences that are difficult to achieve with traditional methods. They allow construction workers to experience critical situations in total safety. Helping them how to best manage and address all potential risks.

Here are some of the most important aspects that can improve the training of employees and operators in the construction sector.

Identification of risks

Training workers with Virtual reality is useful to identify the typical risks of construction. Such as falling materials and improper use of equipment or non-compliance safety procedures . By simulating realistic scenarios, users learn to recognize danger signals and take appropriate preventive measures.

Accident prevention

Virtual reality training helps workers develop practical skills to prevent accidents on construction sites. For example, users can learn how to properly use personal protective equipment. To properly position guardrails and safety nets or on how to handle emergency situations.

Training on emergency procedures

Virtual reality is an excellent tool for training on emergency procedures, such as site evacuation, fire extinguisher usage and first aid provision. Users can experience these situations in a realistic and repetitive way, thus acquiring familiarity and confidence in handling such occurrences.

Critical issues and challenges in the implementation of virtual reality

Despite the numerous advantages, the adoption of virtual reality training in the construction sector also presents some challenges and critical issues. Which include:

high upfront costs: Purchasing virtual reality devices and developing custom software can result in a hefty upfront investment;
resistance to change: Some workers may be reluctant to use virtual reality technology. Particularly if they are unfamiliar with new technologies;
technical limitations: the simulations’ quality and the interactivity offered by virtual reality depend on the devices’ power and the quality of the software used. Therefore, it is essential to invest in high-quality solutions to ensure an effective training experience.

How to Choose the Right Type of Training

To choose the training solution with virtual reality that best suits your needs, it is important to consider several factors, including:

available budget: evaluate the initial costs and maintenance expenses associated with virtual reality’s implementation in training;
internal technical skills: ensure that you have qualified personnel capable of managing and maintaining virtual reality devices and associated software;
industry specificity: choosing a virtual reality solutions that is specifically designed for the construction sector covering the relevant aspects of site risk management;
scalability: opting for easily adapting solutions to the evolving needs of the company and the industry.

The Future of Virtual Reality in Construction

This is a very promising initiative for the future! With the continuous development of new technologies and costs’ reduction, virtual reality is becoming an increasingly widespread. Along with accessible tool for training and risk management on construction sites. In addition, the integration of technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Thing (IoT) could further improve the effectiveness. As well as the personalization of virtual reality training experiences.

Use of virtual reality in construction training: the example of the CNR of Pisa

Below I present a case study that highlights the usefulness of training through immersive virtual reality.

The project concerns the “Super-elevation of the CNR of PISA” and was led by the University of Florence, the CNR of PISA and INAIL Toscana. The entire work has led, among other things, to the development of digital processes for training workers in immersive virtual reality through the use of the usBIM.reality application.

Through the video you will learn how the use of a BIM methodology, supported by Immersive Virtual Reality tools, can be used for workers’ training, with the objective of increasing safety levels on site, reducing the risks associated with different activities, construction times and, consequently, costs.