Serious Labs offers VR training for HS2 MEWP operators

Canada-based tech company Serious Labs is launching a pilot virtual reality (VR) MEWP training program for Align JV employees working on the HS2 railway project in the UK.

Align JV is made up of three leading construction companies (Bouygues Travaux Publics, Sir Robert McAlpine and VolkerFitzpatrick) that are currently building HS2’s Central 1 portion. Works on the project include the construction of 3.37km viaduct, 16.04km twin-bored tunnel and five vent shafts handling both intervention and tunnel ventilation facilities.

Serious Labs’ VR operator training simulator will be used by all MEWP operators on the Align JV jobsite and will see them carry out short 30-minute, COVID-19 safe, training assessments.

Darren Verschuren, International Account Director, Serious Labs, said, “From initial conversations with the team at Align JV, it was clear they were looking at using innovation and the latest technology to enhance the safety of all aspects of the working environment.

“Not only is simulator training engaging, cost-effective and safe, it provides trainees with better capabilities, while decreasing the potential for accidents and fatalities — something which is better for everyone.”

According to Serious Labs, operators on the scheme will be assessed at set intervals to map their progress and ensure continual improvement in their expertise.

The VR simulator, which includes a number of typical hazards likely to be faced by MEWP operators on the HS2 project, was tested by more than a dozen Align JV stakeholders.

Neil Hancox, Director of Health and Safety, Align JV, said, “The new technology looks and feels fantastic; it is very close to reality. Alongside ongoing technical assessment, I can see this being a great step toward the training of new operators and their further skills improvement for the experienced operator.”