Virtual Reality Construction Training

The construction industry is faced with a skills gap, created by the disparity between traditional classroom learning and the need for onsite experience. An immersive training solution is needed to address this dynamic, which is preventing a new generation of construction workers – both from HE and FE – from beginning their careers.

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) created a fund to increase the uptake and adoption of immersive learning among construction employers. We partnered with City College Plymouth and other companies, including Kier & Wilmott Dixon, to address the need for innovative health & safety training for HE and FE students.

A VR Health & Safety Training solution that simulates a genuine Kier building site, introducing new students to a real world site in complete safety. Our VR experience operates akin to a driving Hazard Perception test. A simpler version for FE students guides the user through a pre-determined route and tasks the student with avoiding and preventing hazards. A more challenging version for HE students encourages independent exploration of a virtual building site.

Students will largely use the solution to supplement their classroom learning in completing their risk assessments. Users can explore the virtual building site at their own pace, practise activities and respond to situations in an authentic environment which emulates textures and sound design. Designed as a three module course, the user is taken on a linear journey through key safety procedures such as operating heavy machinery or working at height.

Our immersive approach offers a stimulating and quick way to learn, improving the quality, efficiency and safety of construction workers. So far the training has had an early rollout across the FE and HR courses in the college, before its full implementation from September 2020.