Virtual reality (VR) is often used in fire safety training, but it can be expensive technology. A new system that is inexpensive can be used to improve the safety of work sites.
A VR headset and suitable software can be used to allow people to experience hazardous working situations without risk. For example, in the oil and gas industry workers use throbbing jacks that are used to cap well heads when there is unbalanced pressure. This is a dangerous operation, so workers are trained on a VR system that allows them to practice without the associated risks. The more they practice, the less risk they will face during the actual procedure.
Many small to medium businesses do not have the budget for full VR systems that require bespoke software written for them. Holobuilder is a system that has been developed to document construction site progress but can also be used as a safety review aid. The user purchases or hires a 360° 3D camera operated from a tablet or smartphone Holobuilder app. This camera builds up VR video images of the site. These images are then processed in software and notes can be added.
A fire safety expert using a Google cardboard VR device that costs less than £15 and their smartphone, can walk through the virtual site and spot places where fire safety signs need to be erected. They can also walk fire exit routes in VR to check that they can evacuate the building quickly.
