A-Plant division, Plantfinder has begun trialling a revolutionary virtual reality-training simulator at its Kilmarnock depot.

The powered access equipment rental specialist launched the trial with some of its partners.

The simulator was developed by Serious Labs, a leading provider of virtual reality (VR) solutions for training and operations of heavy equipment, in collaboration with the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF).

IPAF has developed the platform in response to increasing demand from contractors for a recognised qualification standard to demonstrate advanced operator proficiency, which also signifies a certain level of experience in using different types of MEWPs in a variety of challenging environments and scenarios. 

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Tony Warren, Training Manager for Plantfinder said: "The VR simulator is revolutionary, it's a great training aid for both novices and experienced operatives. Its intuitive and comfortable to use, and will make a real difference to training in the future.

"Simulator training is not only engaging for the modern-day workforce, it's also cost-effective and safe. This solution will provide operatives with enhanced training capabilities that will inevitably decrease accidents and fatalities onsite."

He added: "Anyone that passes or fails on the simulator is no different to the practical training method. The benefit of the VR training is that it only requires a simulator and not all the equipment, making onsite VR training a real possibility."

If the trials are successful IPAF says it will look to fully develop the IPAF PAL+ course into eLearning and VR by developing a digital version of the theory module and simulated pre-use inspection to be launched later in the year.

(CM)