Rail

Platform-Train Interface Training

The UK railway network is considered to be one of the safest in Europe, with no one being killed as a result of a signal being passed at danger (SPAD) since Ladbroke Grove in 1999. However, between 2003 and 2013 there have been 30 deaths as a result of incidents at the platform-train interface. PTI incidents have been responsible for 50% of passenger deaths since 2005/6 and more recently, in 2014/15, it has been the main source of fatalities

Due to the platform-train interface representing such a significant risk to the safety of staff and customers and with the number of fatalities and incidents occurring as a result of this activity, all Rail operators have a responsibility to ensure that where possible the safety of staff and customers is maintained and, where reasonably practicable, continuously improved.

Research into the risks has shown that a large proportion of these incidents occur as a result of passenger behaviours and a lack of awareness of the dangers at the platform-train interface.

There is a need to ensure that staff working on trains or station platforms have the ability to influence or respond to these behaviours, mitigating risks and promoting a safe and responsible culture at the platform-train interface

This can be achieved by incorporating innovative new technology using virtual reality simulation in staff training. The use of simulation and games based learning has proved to be a very successful tool for training staff to carry out important tasks in an effective way. This has been demonstrated by the UK military who now use simulation and games based learning to deliver training. A research project showed that personnel who used the simulator were able to carry out the live task far more effectively than the personnel who used traditional methods of training.

Simulation also greatly improves retention of the lessons learned within the scenario. Scenarios are tailored to achieve specific learning outcomes and include fixed and random events which engage and test the user. A full content management system allows the training department of the organisation to track the progress of each user

Training in The Rail Simulator

The use of this technology is no longer merely a desirable addition to training resources. The pace of change requires that organisations embrace innovation and the use of virtual reality becomes essential as a method of delivering training, reducing costs and improving performance.

Product Description

The simulator is a room within a room. The training department are the facilitators, guiding the participants through a range of fully interactive and engaging training scenarios. The simulation reacts to the user’s specific actions and inputs. The simulation experience is second to none, incorporating HD graphics, real audio, gesture control and a host of learning scenarios.

The Platform Train Interface

Software

VRSS work with the client to provide a training package which is suited to specific needs, this will include:-
– A choice of learning Scenarios (Fixed or Random) the standard package comes with over 10 key learning scenarios already developed, including;- intoxicated passenger, safety checks, signal failure, stop short, suspicious luggage, door failure and person falls onto the track.
– Generic software capable of localised branding where required.
– Inclusion of actual rail stock to replicate specifics such as door controls and alarms.
– Dedicated animations which demonstrate the results of a specific choice by an user.
– Virtual learning database to track a user’s progress in the simulation
– Free Roam across the Virtual station – multiple platforms of different sizes, cafes, ramps, storage areas, fully functional PA system, signals and rail machinery.
– Different weather conditions such as fog/ rain
– Different sizes of trains and number of carriages.
– Avatars of customers, each with their own AI (artificial intelligence), including the ability to simulate crowds, rush hour and avatars of different ages.
– Choice of user – such as Driver, Conductor, Dispatcher or Station staff.

VRSS is constantly updating the simulator using feedback from RSSB and other TOC clients. All clients will benefit from these developments and any software enhancements developed inhouse. We are therefore able to share 6 monthly updates will all our Rail Operator clients to update the system with the latest software packages and new functionality at no cost.