From Risk to Readiness: VR-Based Safety Training for Industrial Hazards

This study explores the application of Virtual Reality (VR) as a tool for safety training in high-risk industrial settings, specifically focusing on the IPLOM refinery, Busalla (Italy). As industries increasingly adopt digital tools to enhance safety and operational efficiency, VR provides a risk-free, immersive environment for training operators in emergency protocols. This project developed a VR simulation using Unreal Engine and Meta Quest headsets to mirror refinery conditions, including equipment handling, emergency response procedures, and spatial navigation. Integrated tools, such as multi-gas detectors and evacuation drills, allow users to practice real-world tasks virtually, enhancing procedural knowledge and spatial awareness. The simulation's design allows for future integration with Augmented Reality (AR) to enable real-time equipment monitoring and data overlays, enhancing on-site decision-making. Feedback from initial testing shows high user satisfaction and increased confidence in emergency response skills, indicating the effectiveness of VR in safety training. This VR approach offers a scalable, adaptable model for refining industrial training, reducing physical risks and costs associated with traditional drills, and setting a foundation for the use of immersive technologies in other high-risk sectors.