Disrupting Corporate Training
The Challenge
Every company larger than 100 has to provide fire training exercises to their personnel. Some simply provide e-learning or theoretical classroom training. However, many see the use of properly training their personnel and offering real-life training. Securitas is the market leader in Belgium for such fire training. Their Fire Truck solution allows clients to train their personnel on real fires. In the truck, various small fires are simulated to allow personnel to learn the proper technique to put out the fires.
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This approach has proven highly successful. However, Securitas is looking to increase its reach and scale this further. Scaling a physical fire truck could be cost-prohibitive and logistically challenging. Securitas was therefore looking to the potential of Virtual Reality to help them scale this business.
The Solution
Together with Securitas experts, OneBonsai has developed a state-of-the-art VR fire training solution. This solution makes use of the latest technology to accurately simulate fire and smoke in realistic environments. Each environment is specifically geared towards an industry. This way, a nurse will not be extinguishing fires in a warehouse, but in a relevant medical setting (eg. a patient room).
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The system allows the instructor to follow the VR session and in real-time adjust the training parameters. An easy-to-use interface allows for efficient use by the instructor.
The trainee will make use of a real fire extinguisher which is tracked by the VR application. This significantly increases the realism of the setup. The system now includes more than 40 different training scenarios, each of which the instructor can choose depending on the needs and requirements of the end client.
- Increase knowledge retention versus traditional training methods such as e-learning and classroom training
- Improve personnel and process safety by safely training emergency or uncommon situations
- Scale effectively across geographies, languages, and departments
- Reduce time to fully train personnel
The Approach
OneBonsai has worked together with the fire experts at Securitas to define a system that makes optimal use of the latest VR technology, while also providing sufficient realism and learning capabilities. Additionally, it was important to keep the system as reliable and simple to use as possible to ensure that instructors could focus on providing training rather than struggle with an IT system.
Through a Design Sprint, the initial needs and wants were put on paper. With this information, OneBonsai was able to provide a clear scope and budget.
The Outcome
Securitas now actively uses the VR training system for fire training. This system has allowed Securitas to increase its training capacity while also reaching a different client base. Furthermore, the system has proven to be much loved by the trainees. It allows for quicker and more effective training, especially for renewal training. Indeed, the training session can be reduced from 2-4 hours to less than 30 min.
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Securitas now is moving to further integrate Virtual Reality into their training curriculum. There is a clear need and want from their clients to provide additional training services. Such services require effective and efficient training systems, which OneBonsai can provide.
Download the brochure for more information
FAQ
What is VR training?
Virtual Reality (VR) training is using immersive technology such as VR headsets to practice certain skills or procedures. With VR training the emphasis is on the practical experience that the users experience. They can redo dangerous or difficult procedures as much as they like without any risk.
What are the benefits of VR for learning?
Studies have shown the benefits of using VR for cognitive stimulation. Due to a higher immersion in the training, the retention of the educational content is increased. Safer training: eliminating the risk of employees getting hurt or damaging equipment. It is also more cost-effective, allowing you to train multiple people for the same training at once.Â
VR for blended learning?
Virtual Reality (VR) is a useful tool for blended learning because it allows learners to experience immersive and interactive simulations, which supplement traditional classroom or online learning. VR can enhance engagement and retention of information, provide a more memorable learning experience, and offer access to resources and experiences that may not be available through traditional learning methods.
Mobile VR vs PC VR, What is the difference?
We consider every VR headset that does not require a PC as Mobile VR. The best examples of Mobile VR are; Oculus Quest 1 or 2, Pico Neo 3 or 4, etc… PC VR requires an external PC to run the VR software in the VR headset. With this extra computing power it allows to have more realistic graphics or physics simulations (such as smoke development).
What is XR? (Extended Reality)
XR is a term that refers to extended reality, which is an umbrella term for immersive technologies that enhance, blend, or replace reality with computer-generated content. XR includes virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) technologies.
What is standalone VR
Standalone VR refers to virtual reality headsets that don’t require a connection to a computer or a gaming console to function. These headsets have all the necessary hardware, including the processor, the display, the sensors, and the battery, built into the device itself.
How long should a training session be in VR?
We recommend short sessions varying from 10 to 20 minutes tops. But complete courses can go up to multiple hours, divided into shorter training sessions.
Are there disadvantages to using Virtual Reality?
Virtual Reality (VR) can cause motion sickness or simulator sickness in some people. The symptoms of motion sickness in VR can include nausea, dizziness, sweating, and fatigue. This is because the VR experience can be so immersive that it can confuse the brain’s perception of balance and movement, causing a mismatch between what the eyes see and what the body feels.
Can VR be used for recruitment?
VR can be a useful tool for recruitment as it provides a more immersive and engaging experience for potential candidates. VR can simulate real-world scenarios and environments, allowing candidates to experience what it would be like to work in a particular role or industry before applying or accepting a job offer. VR can also be used to test candidates’ skills and abilities in a simulated environment, providing a more objective and standardized assessment. For example, a company could create a VR simulation of a factory floor or a customer service scenario, and assess candidates’ performance in that environment.
