The Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team is dispatched to earthquake zones to search for survivors. In order to train these high-stress situations as realistically as possible, USAR is now using virtual reality training. Earthquake scenarios are simulated and, thanks to the freedom of movement and interaction, procedures and manoeuvres can be practised in a safe environment.
The USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) team is deployed to disaster areas when an earthquake has occurred and people are trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings. The first step in this field is a thorough situation assessment. To prepare and train the team members, the organisation investigated virtual reality as a possible solution. VR Owl, an agency that offers the whole package of virtual reality, was asked to help develop a VR training programme.
Various scenes during training
VR Owl has used this basis to create a VR training programme in which various earthquake scenarios can be simulated. The trainer can determine the effects (Richter scale) and the time of day (day or night).
Each scenario consists of five jobs. Through visual inspection of the worksite, interviews with informants and close monitoring of survivors, USAR students must make an assessment so that the correct label can be determined and therefore the correct materials can be selected for rescue operations. Visual recognition of potential hazardous materials is also included.
In addition, users can practise marking buildings according to the international USAR protocol. This way, all teams can be informed about the work progress of this specific construction site.
VR helps save lives
The result of the training is impressive in several respects: the VR application allows USAR to train employees safely and thoroughly before they are sent to remote locations. This helps them prepare for the difficult and emotional tasks they will encounter. USAR saves time and money through more efficient training, but most importantly; they are better equipped to save lives and make a difference.
Once again a very exciting use case for VR. The good quality is also shown in the short video:
Source: vrowl
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