Training Simulations for Utility Companies
Training simulations that incorporate elements of virtual or augmented reality might be the next great frontier for electric, water and gas utility emergency preparedness. This type of technology can be utilized for exercises and drills to maximize realism, as well as to make the overall training mechanics more automated.
Ins and Outs of Training Simulations
The inspiration for this post is a Forbes article that focuses on training simulations in the oil and gas sector, but many of the elements can be adapted for the energy utility sector – albeit at a cost.
For example, the article mentions a huge training facility in Norway that features multiple rooms that allow up to 25 employees to observe and react to simulated situations rendered via “immersive displays.”
This concept could be adapted to energy utilities by utilizing the immersive displays to visually render disaster scenarios that drill participants must react to. The beauty of training simulations is that the scenario or simulation can be changed relatively easily, so that different simulations can be created for different groups and geographic locations.
The simulated training scenarios can be combined with classroom theory, written exams, and even automated on-screen skills testing with relative ease. And utilities do not necessarily need to launch training simulation programs independently, as there are vendors that can do the heavy lifting.
The best emergency preparedness training simulations allow participants to practice decision-making, communication, teamwork, situational awareness and safety protocols under a wide range of emergency scenarios. Visual rendering can also be shared via the internet across multiple locations, further enhancing realism. Additionally, online dashboards can be developed to monitor drills, as well as analyze competence and track participation.
As you can see, training simulations offer a plethora of benefits, but this type of technology obviously requires a substantial investment of time and money by the company. The good news is that deployment costs are constantly decreasing, so the business case should begin to look better and better sooner rather than later.
