Ineris – VR Training for ATEX Risks

Explosive atmospheres (ATEX) represent a major risk in many industrial sectors where mixtures of flammable gases, vapors, or dust can cause explosions. Regulations require a thorough risk assessment and the use of appropriate equipment to prevent these dangers.

Specializing in the prevention of industrial and environmental risks, Ineris (National Institute for Industrial Environment and Risks) develops tools, training, and certifications that help industries comply with regulations and adopt safe practices. Ineris offers comprehensive ATEX training, including specialized modules on risk assessment (ATEX zoning) and equipment management.

The Ism-ATEX certification training, recognized in France and internationally, is the only certification course in this field. In 2019, an e-learning module was developed to make access to this training more flexible and modern.

In a bid for innovation and to strengthen its position as a leader, Ineris introduced a virtual reality simulator (developed by Audace) that includes two immersive scenarios. These scenarios provide realistic situations and allow for the application of essential safety measures.

DEVICE

Virtual reality simulator consisting of two scenarios:

  • The first scenario involves a technical intervention on an ATEX pump set and the preparation of work in a hazardous area. The learner is faced with a gas leak that they must stop as quickly as possible to avoid an explosion.
  • In the second scenario, the learner must perform first-level maintenance operations (inspection, cleaning, and replacement of parts) and recommission the pump. This scenario, which also takes place in an ATEX zone, includes gas measurements, validations or refusals, triggering the emergency alarm, etc.

TARGET

Any person required to work in an ATEX zone.

OBJECTIVE

Training to intervene in ATEX zones safely.

SNCF – Railway Risk Simulator

Movements and work performed within railway premises expose employees to risks and dangers defined as “railway risks.” These railway risks relate to the movement of a train, namely the risk of collision and the danger posed by the air pressure effect caused by the passage of a train.

In order to raise awareness among its employees about these dangers,  SNCF, through its  AR.VR Factory, entrusted Audace with the development of a VR application for simulating railway risks.

DEVICE

Equipped with a standalone VR headset, the learner is immersed near a railway track. Their mission: to cross the tracks between two passing trains in order to take a photo of an electrical equipment. To do this, they must move safely along the tracks and cross them after following precautionary rules. During the exercise, the learner faces the imminent arrival of trains traveling at 130 km/h (first in one direction, then the other) and risks being hit.

Rails, ballast, vegetation, overhead lines, train… The hyper-realistic simulation of the environment makes the experience more impactful and thus facilitates the memory retention of the learners. The sound and vibrations associated with the passage of trains (including the driver’s audible warning) have also been replicated. This evokes strong emotions in the learner (surprise effect, stress state…) and contributes to the memorization of good safety practices.

To enhance the user experience, the application is compatible with the standalone Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 2 headsets. A voiceover has also been integrated into the system.

TARGET

SNCF technicians.

OBJECTIVE

Raising awareness among SNCF employees about railway risks near tracks in a rural environment.

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Elearning module “Suicides linked to work: how to react?”

Le suicide ou la tentative de suicide sur le lieu de travail

Suicide or attempted suicide in the workplace requires an urgent response, including calling for help, protecting colleagues, and hiding the scene of the incident. It’s also a wake-up call for the company, revealing broader issues of unease within the organization. Suicide prevention at work involves a global approach to preventing psychosocial risks, as well as an analysis of suicidal acts when they occur. This module will allow you to obtain the key elements to deal with this type of situation.

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Elearning module “Risks linked to fibers other than asbestos”

Les risques liés aux fibres autres que l’amiante

This module explains the various applications of fibers in many sectors of activity, while highlighting the frequent lack of data on them. It provides an overview of current knowledge on different fibers, excluding asbestos, whether natural or synthetic, organic or inorganic. This file examines their characteristics, their uses, the risks they pose for health, the exposure levels observed in the workplace and the preventive measures to adopt.

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