A new virtual reality training laboratory has opened in Bell Bay, giving students the chance to develop high-risk work skills in simulated environments before stepping onto real worksites.
The immersive skills lab at TasTAFE uses virtual, augmented and mixed reality technology to train workers in tasks such as forklift operation, addressing industry concerns about safety in hazardous industrial settings.
Skills Minister Felix Ellis said the facility marked a step forward in vocational training.
“Really, simulation is about bridging the gap between theory and practice,” Ellis said.
“And so if learners can get the job-ready skills that they need before stepping on a job site, that’s better for them, it’s better for industry.”
The state government contributed $250,000 towards the laboratory, working in partnership with the Bell Bay Advanced Manufacturing Zone and TasTAFE.
In total, more than $1 million has been invested across 16 innovative training projects.
Mr Ellis said high-risk work licensing often presented particular challenges.
“For example, that high-risk work like forklift licensing is often tough for people to do safely in some of those environments,” he said.
“So if they’re able to do it first in a simulator with expert instruction, they’ll get the skills that they need while also staying safe.”
