Transport for Wales (TfW) are undergoing a transformation programme to replace their entire rolling stock fleet. The introduction of their new CAF Class 197 trains required TfW to design new training procedures across multiple roles, not least for the safety critical procedures carried out by Train Managers.

With RSSB reporting that over 50% of passenger fatalities happen at the platform-train interface, the challenge to the TfW training design team was to develop a training programme that would accelerate learning and help mitigate the risk of future incidents.

Building on the successful use of simulators in their driver training, TfW worked with the Denova team to explore the opportunities of using simulation and virtual reality for train managers.

Design and visualisation

Based on previous experience of developing Class 197 training material for drivers, Denova and TfW started the design process with the 3D train model in virtual reality. This enabled the desired learning outcomes and detailed specification to be visualised throughout the design process.

Eight stations were designed, with multiple platform and signalling configurations, and different dispatch procedures across the network. The result was the development of a new route in virtual reality with the ability for trainees to practice simulated dispatch, emergency and degraded condition procedures. Designed as a training aid, trainers were able to introduce scenarios to the trainees virtual reality experience, replicating the wide range of challenges and distractions train managers face on a daily basis.

Train Manager Simulator Solution

TfW now benefit from a train manager simulator that enables them to deliver more training across a wider range of scenarios and subjects than they previously could, and in a risk free environment. The virtual reality simulator enables the development of essential muscle memory across repetitive tasks, which will help mitigate the risk of safety incidents occurring.

“Denova’s VR technology has been transformative for our train manager training. It allows trainees to experience realistic scenarios such as onboard fires dispatch procedures and degraded situations. This immersive approach bridges the gap between theory and practice in an interesting and immersive way. The potential for expanding this technology within our organisation and the rest of the railway sector is immense, and the Denova team has been a fantastic, outcome-focused partner.” Paul Pritchard, Safety Operations Standards Competency Manager, Transport for Wales