VR Education for DTEK Odesa Grids Electricians

Thermal power generation22 January 2021

From now on, electricians of DTEK Odesa Grids field teams will train to operate the equipment of electrical substations in virtual reality. The VR simulator used for the training will facilitate the learning process and make it as safe as possible.

The company has already completed the first training using a VR simulator. The electricians were trained to maintain and then put into operation the T2 transformer at the Yalta 110/35/10 two-transformer substation. 36 professionals have already improved their qualifications using VR.

“DTEK is the leader of digital transformation. The company innovates in all aspects of its activities, including in the training and education of its personnel. The main task to be performed by the electricians on the simulator is to switch the equipment safely and quickly. In real life, the health and lives of our employees depend on such actions, - says Alexander Fomenko, CEO of DTEK Odesa Grids. - DTEK is a conscious company, and people are our primary value. Such trainings will help our specialists to polish up their skills, and practice the safe work methods at objects of higher danger until it becomes second nature”.

The VR simulator is the Oculus Quest VR headset. Simply put it on, and dive into a simulated work environment that is as close to reality as possible, including the scale. The feeling of being fully immersed in the virtual world is provided by a 360-degree video image. The program checks compliance with the requirements of labor protection and industrial safety, the correct use of personal protective equipment, and the use of information and guiding signs.

The VR headset is used in the training and education center in DTEK Odesa Grids. It simulates the Yalta 110/35/10 substation. A student studies theory and virtually performs more than 50 switchings during the maintenance and commissioning of the substation. Everything is like in life - interaction with equipment, performing the necessary operations. A virtual teacher shows how to complete the task by showing it himself first.

Training using the virtual simulator is already included in the program of primary professional training and advanced training for such specialties, as ‘Electrician of a field team’, ‘Electrician to maintain distribution networks’, ‘Electrician for maintenance of substations’. Dispatchers, distribution network supervisors and supervisors of 35 kV substation and above will also undergo similar trainings. A separate training course was developed for them.

Kampov Technology together with DTEK Odesa Grids OH&S developed the VR training program for Odesa Grids workers.