Virtual reality (VR) technology has the potential to revolutionize the to approach health and safety training in various industries, including construction. In the construction industry, safety is a critical concern, and the risks associated with working on construction sites are numerous. Traditionally, safety training has been delivered through classroom instruction, videos, or on-the-job training. However, with the advent of VR, construction workers can experience a more immersive and interactive way to learn and practice safety procedures in a safe and controlled virtual environment. This technology has the potential to improve hazard identification and assessment as well as health and safety outcomes for construction workers, reduce incidents, and minimize the costs associated with injuries and lost work time.

The hardware components required for VR training in construction safety may vary depending on the specific training program and the level of immersion required (figure 1). However, some of the common components include: a VR headset, a computer system to run the VR software, and motion controllers. 

Figure 1. Workers undergoing VR training. (Photo courtesy of Industrial Training International)

Although the list is not comprehensive, below are a few examples to consider:

Pixo VR

PIXO VR offers standard construction site safety training that covers OSHA requirements, including Fall Protection, Lockout/Tagout, and Electrical Hazards. In addition, PIXO also uses VR to teach hard construction skills needed for housekeeping, trenching and excavation, and scaffolding (figure 2). These training programs use virtual reality simulations to create a realistic, immersive experience that engages trainees and provides a powerful learning environment. Moreover, PIXO's VR partners can create custom virtual reality content to meet specific requirements for companies that have unique safety procedures or equipment. This tailored approach ensures that trainees receive training that is appropriate for their job and that can help them perform their tasks safely and effectively.

Figure 2. A construction VR training module for scaffolding. (Photo courtesy of PIXO VR)

Hardhat VR

Hardhat is a VR software company that specializes in providing immersive and interactive safety training solutions for the construction industry. Their VR software allows construction workers to learn and practice safety procedures in a controlled and safe virtual environment, reducing the risks associated with on-the-job training. Hardhat's software is designed to be engaging and interactive, with realistic simulations of construction sites and potential hazards. The company also offers customized VR training modules tailored to specific construction sites and equipment, allowing workers to receive specialized training that meets their unique needs.

Their VR content library includes:

1. Lockout Tagout: Electrical
2. Fire Hazard Awareness
3. Warehouse Hazard Awareness
4. Working from Heights
5. Chemical Spill Cleanup
6. Excavation & Trenching
7. Fall Protection
8. Construction Site: Ladder
9. Scaffolding
10. Construction Site: Electrical
11. First Aid: CPR & AED
12. First Aid: Bloodborne Pathogens
13. Security Breach Awareness
14. Confined Space Entry
15. Forklift Training
16. Lockout Tagout: Manufacturing
17. Logistics: Picking Operations
18. Logistics: Packing Operations

Industrial Training International

ITI is focused on skill development for mobile and overhead crane operation, inspection, maintenance, and rigging tasks (figure 3). The VR crane simulator puts operators in the seat of 1 of 8 crane types to develop load handling equipment skills without the need of a physical crane. The Overhead Crane Inspector and Technician Simulations provide these professions with realistic crane conditions to troubleshoot and diagnose common problems related to mechanical, electrical, and structural components. ITI also leverages world-class content from industry partners like Pixo VR and Hard Hat VR, who develop realistic hazard recognition and job task simulations for oil and gas, renewables, manufacturing, and maritime industries. ITI's combined libraries provide a foundation of hazard awareness, inspection, diagnosis, and operation skills building.

Figure 3. VR training screen for a crane simulation. (Photo courtesy of Industrial Training International)

Their VR content library for construction hazard identification training includes:

1. Hand Tools
2. Lifting and Rigging
3. Electrical and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
4. Environmental Hazards
5. Confined Space and Hot Work
6. Mobile Equipment and Personnel Interface (MEPI) and Excavations
7. Dropped Object Prevention/Protection
8. Fall Prevention/Protection
9. Scaffolding
10. Industrial Hygiene (includes silica dust and noise exposure)

Jean Christophe Le, MPH - CPWR The Center for Construction Research and Training
Bruce Lippy, Ph.D., CIH, CSP - CPWR The Center for Construction Research and Training
Mike Kassman, MAHP, CHST, PA-AIC, APT - CPWR The Center for Construction Research and Training