Due to increases in computing power as well as the rise of technology in construction equipment and applications, simulators continue to gain momentum as a smart and effective way to train heavy equipment operators. As the pandemic forces us to reconsider various aspects of our daily lives from entertainment to healthcare and education, simulator-based training has become more relevant than ever.
This should come as no surprise. Simulators, by their very nature, are well positioned to help construction companies and vocational schools overcome the training challenges brought on by COVID-19. Reduced classroom and crew sizes, on-site sanitation and designated travel paths are among the most common guidelines issued by officials to help mitigate the spread of the virus. A survey from the Associated General Contractors of America shows that 65% of respondents have experienced laid-off or existing employees refusing to return to work, citing concerns over the coronavirus while teachers continue to worry about their health as plans to reopen schools are underway.
In this time of insecurity organizations need to demonstrate a commitment to a safe environment without compromising on the quality of training. Here’s how simulation-based training can help:
Sanitary and distanced training
Simulation facilitates safe and hygienic hands-on training. Operators can train on any simulator and easily wipe down and disinfect the machine before and after every use. Multiple students can be placed on simulators that are physically distanced or separated by plexiglass while portable solutions like the Edge Plus enable remote training from any location.
In contrast, on-the-job instruction forces both the instructor and the student into a confined cab where they are breathing the same air, speaking loudly over noisy machinery and touching the same surfaces.
Remote instruction
To provide an even greater level of safety, CM Labs simulators can be paired with an optional Instructor Operating Station (IOS) . This remote workstation can be set up within the classroom or a separate room and allows instructors to control the training right from their seat. The IOS empowers instructors with a real-time 3D view of the virtual work site and allows them to initiate exercises, inject faults and manipulate weather conditions. What’s more, the IOS tracks and benchmarks trainee progress and allows instructors to add bookmarks and notes to the training session that can be addressed with each student at any time.
Meet physical distancing requirements with the Instructor Operating station and enable a new form of hands-on instruction that maintains an unprecedented quality of training in heavy equipment operation.
Maximum productivity
Fewer workers on site means project delays. Optimizing your crew’s capabilities and making sure workers on the job have the necessary skills and training to operate equipment remain an important part of ensuring projects stay on track.
Simulation provides a 360-degree solution to the recruitment and training process from evaluating the skill-set of prospective operators to training them remotely as well as upskilling and cross-skilling them with no down-time to the real equipment. Keep your machines working and your operators training at the same time for maximum efficiency.
Simulation training means you always have the manpower you need to bid on jobs and remain competitive. The construction industry is dealing with a residual skills gap dating back to the 2008 financial crisis. Simulators can help curb that gap by investing in the career paths of operators and giving them a reason pursue a career in the industry and to stay.
According to Mckinsey & Company companies that came out ahead after the financial crisis of 2008 typically, rapidly reallocated resources, and made bold moves to prepare for the future. With recovery through infrastructure spending looming it’s important to plan today for tomorrow.
At the end of the day, simulators deliver where it really counts
This includes safety, flexibility, control and efficiency. If you’ve been considering simulation-based training, there’s never been a better time. Access our webinar on How simulation can help you get ahead of the pandemic to learn more about the benefits or contact us directly. Don’t let the effects of the coronavirus leave you behind.
