A TLN client within the energy sector approached us with a desire to take the leap and get his employees into virtual reality training. Specifically, they were very intrigued by FireWise, our VR fire extinguisher training module. Many employees on site must take part in regular training on how to properly use a fire extinguisher in both indoor and outdoor settings, and they were very impressed at what the FireWise program could offer.

The advantages of using FireWise for their training are numerous. To start with, running fire extinguisher training in person does require a lot of commitment in terms of planning, time, and logistics. Designated areas, usually outdoors with metal basins where controlled gasoline pan fires can be set up and extinguished for practice, are also necessary. These in-person sessions are usually planned for multiple participants to go through it at the same time. This requires further time commitment from participants, where groups of employees must be away from the job at the same time. They also have many different types of extinguishers that they have on site for different kinds of fires, and they were interested in a training solution that could include information and practice using all of these extinguisher types.

TLN collaborated with the client to create new features for FireWise that would meet their training needs. We added an information section related to each type of fire extinguisher, which deepens the learning experience within the cognitive domain. The assessment and reporting capabilities were also updated to give a more comprehensive look at a learner’s performance. This performance could also be assessed in an advanced mode, where the location, type of fire, and weather conditions are randomized and learners must adapt their actions accordingly.

Using FireWise has allowed the client to adapt their fire extinguisher employee training and deepen the learning experience for their employees. Training can now be done one-on-one without the need for larger-scale planning and logistical setup. Feedback can also be given by the instructor after a session has been completed, included questions that touch on the affective domain of learning like “Would you have felt safe fighting that fire in a real life situation?” This FireWise partnership has continued with TLN as well, where feedback from the client’s experience in using the tool is being used to update and deepen the training experience.

For more information on the FireWise VR solution, head to our FireWise page or contact us with any questions you may have.