The challenge: Overcoming accessibility and safety barriers in high-voltage installations
Practical training in medium and high voltage electrical maintenance presents significant obstacles in the real world. Technical rooms (TRAFO, medium-voltage cells) are often located in separate buildings, and critical spaces such as the transformer room can only be visited once a year, coinciding with the plant’s technical shutdown. Outside these dates, access is extremely dangerous or impossible, which drastically limits opportunities for practical training.
Furthermore, the real environment imposes psychological and operational barriers. The machinery is impressive in terms of its size, noise and technical complexity, causing stress for novice operators. Performing incorrect manoeuvres during training not only carries a mortal risk, but also causes material wear and tear and high operating costs. The challenge was to replicate this scattered and dangerous workflow in an accessible and safe environment.
FINSA
Leader in wood transformation and the manufacture of decorative and technical solutions
The solution: Virtual training with performance evaluation
We have developed different VR training modules for Meta Quest 3 headsets that faithfully reproduce maintenance procedures in transformers and electrical stations. Through 3D modelling of two locations (electrical substation and transformer room) and specific tools, users can instantly move between different rooms, optimising training time and following the actual workflow without physical movement.
The experience incorporates a dual teaching system. A Training Mode guides the user step by step with visual aids and explanatory texts on the “5 golden rules” and the use of tools, while the Exam Mode assesses the student’s autonomy without clues. The system allows interaction with key elements such as poles, extraction levers and earthing equipment, ensuring that the operator internalises the correct sequence of isolation, verification of absence of voltage and restoration of service.
Occupational risk
Days when the tool is available
ROI thanks to savings in infrastructure
- Compatibility with VR headsets (Meta Quest)
- Exact reproduction of protocols: selection of PPE, interlocks, use of poles and grounding
- Elimination of wear and tear on real materials and tools during practical training
- Assessment module and error attribution integrated into each scenario
Key findings
The implementation of this VR training has transformed technical training at FINSA. Operators can now familiarise themselves with complex and noisy environments before setting foot in the actual plant, reducing fear and increasing operational confidence. The ability to repeat connection and disconnection manoeuvres as many times as necessary ensures an accelerated learning curve and greater retention of safety protocols.
At the management level, the analytics module provides a clear view of staff progress. The system automatically records performance metrics and errors made in exam mode, allowing security managers to identify areas for improvement without exposing workers or infrastructure to real risks. The solution has created an efficient, measurable and, above all, safe training standard.
