Virtual reality in KGHM

Safety first - the Głogów Copper Smelter has commenced trainings with the use of VR (virtual reality) technology. The KGHM Division workers train the behaviours and procedures related to furnace operation using special goggles and pads.

– The VR technology provides the opportunity to create virtual work scenarios, frequently taking place in difficult or even extreme conditions, though being completely safe to health and life. Virtual reality is an invaluable tool enabling safe development of models, which - when verified - can be implemented in practice - said Marcin Chludziński, President of the Management Board of KGHM Polska Miedź S.A.

The trainings for the Głogów Copper Smelter workers involve furnace operation in the scope of among others rodding and lancing of the copper discharge outlet. Using of dedicated goggles makes the workers feel like at their workplace. Hand-held controlling units allow them (literally) to go through the entire technical process and perform all activities.

In virtual reality, the worker is being informed on the risks and potential emergency situations on a step-by-step basis. The app displays the messages informing on what to do in the event of risk.

– This is a great way to train the new workers or these resuming their duties after a long break - says Robert Gregorczyk, chief specialist in the H&S Department in the Głogów Copper Smelter.

The Smelter has been already scheduling the subsequent courses, this time in the area of work at heights, where complying with the H&S procedures is crucial. The plans cover preparations of virtual scenarios, including simulation of a fall from height.

Virtual Reality (VR) consists in multi-media creation of a computer vision of the objects, space or events. It may display the elements of both the real world (computer-based simulations) and fictional world (computer games).

The project is implemented in the Głogów Copper Smelter by the KGHM Centrum Analityki Company supported by VR-Learning.