Work safety goes high-tech Advanced 3D technology based on virtual reality modelling can help industry ensure safety in the workplace and assess the impact of safety-related decisions. Industrial Technologies © Thinkstock Effective safety mechanisms in production plants across Europe are of paramount importance as they ensure the well-being of workers and uninterrupted production. The EU-funded project 'Virtual reality and human factors applications for improving safety' (Virthualis) worked on novel solutions to reduce hazards in production plants and storage facilities. The technology is based on combining human factors and knowledge with technology based on virtual reality technology. It employs 3D visualisation and audio effects to immerse plant operators in a life-like context and model their actions when responding to emergencies. Virthualis aimed to achieve its goals by introducing effective alarm systems, training staff to handle emergencies and assisting control room operators in managing their jobs. It also looked at how plant upgrades affect reliability and empower managers to understand the impact of their decisions. Risk aversion, safety compliance and adherence to safety regulations represented some of the system's key properties and advantages. In effect, Virthualis successfully developed an integrated virtual reality tool that helps plant operators, managers, engineers and designers to improve safety and manage hazards. The results were disseminated intensively to promote high-tech solutions related to safety, security, environment and health. Through this initiative, companies stand to strengthen their corporate social responsibility, improve sustainable development and enhance returns on investment once they embrace the project's approach.
