NIOSHTIC-2 Publications Search

Mine escapeway multiuser training with desktop virtual reality.

Orr-J; Girard-JM

APCOM 2002, Application of Computers and Operations Research in the Mineral Industry: Proceedings of the 30th International Symposium, Phoenix, Arizona, February 25-27, 2002. Bandopadhyay-S, ed., Littleton, CO: Society of Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, 2002 Feb; :577-584

20031356

A NIOSH study on occupational deaths between 1980 and 1989 indicated that in the United States, mining had the highest average annual fatality rate (31.9 per 100,000 workers) of any other major industry. Since "lack of training" was often cited as the primary cause of accidents, NIOSH has been investigating new methods for effective training. One such method is the use of low cost, desktop computers to simulate a virtual mining environment. Computer-based training offers several advantages over conventional training because the computer programs provide a three dimensional environment that allows the trainee to practice using evacuation routes, encounter mining hazards, and view mining operations without being exposed to any real danger. One major focus of the project is mine escapeway multiuser training using desktop virtual reality programs. Researchers have imported mine maps into the software for the purpose of practicing actual evacuation routes and procedures. Various scenarios for evacuation can be practiced in a three-dimensional computer simulation of the mine in a disaster situation, complete with smoke, fife, and other dangers. Depending on the trainee's job description (Le., foreman, shift boss, beltman, etc.), certain tasks need to be performed in addition to navigating primary and/or , secondary escape routes. Each scenario allows for individual or team-based training and provides a means to educate mine workers in hazard recognition and hazard avoidance. Using this program, mine workers can practice evacuating various mine layouts without the danger and expense associated with escapeway training in an actual underground mine. Each scenario can be changed to test the trainee's reaction in a variety of circumstances and run many times so the trainee can practice concepts. This training experience will help reinforce the knowledge acquired during more conventional classroom instruction, and the inherent flexibility of the program allows training materials to be tailored to meet the specific requirements of individual mines.

Mine-escapes; Mining-industry; Mine-disasters; Computer-software; Training; Simulation-methods

20020225

Conference/Symposia Proceedings

Bandopadhyay-S

2002

087335219X

SRL

APCOM 2002, Application of Computers and Operations Research in the Mineral Industry: Proceedings of the 30th International Symposium, Phoenix, Arizona, February 25-27, 2002

WA; AZ