Riwal deploys virtual reality simulator

Netherlands-based rental company Riwal has introduced virtual reality simulators to increase safety and efficiency when working at height.

The platform and telehandler rental specialist said the simulators provide addition training for scissor lift and boom lift operators, in a variety of high-risk construction industry scenarios.

Each device comes equipped with a working basket for operators to stand in, virtual reality goggles and a control panel with joysticks and switches that mimic those on real machines.

Virtual reality training simulators create a controlled environment for operators to train in, thereby lowering personal safety risks and saving significant amounts of money lost to damages of equipment and infrastructure.

The company said the technology also provides operators with opportunities to refresh their training, particularly if an operator has not worked with a machine for some time. Asserting that better trained operators work more comfortably on various pieces of machinery, increasing project efficiency.

Pedro Torres, Riwal COO, said, “Safety is of paramount importance to us, and we will continue to seek new opportunities and innovations to make working at height as safe as possible.” He continued, “We are confident that the VR simulators will reduce the cost of renting and operating machines for our customers.”

The company said it was continuing to work with Canadian technology developer Serious Labs to expand the virtual reality environments offered to include scenarios for other industries, such as aviation. Riwal currently has six virtual reality simulators, including the Poland, Kazakhstan, and the United Arab Emirates.