Using augmented reality to train workers may seem like science fiction, but for employees at APM Terminals Brazil, it has become reality.
For Global Safety Day this year, employees and contractors took part in an experiment to see if the new and developing technology could be used to teach safety measures across the operation in a campaign titled "Stronger & Safer Together".
Augmented Reality App
The HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) team at APM Terminals Brazil developed an augmented reality (AR) app for employees, contractors and visitors to download on their phones which provided video and 3D information about risks and safety operations in the terminal and office buildings.
After opening the app, users pointed their phone at stickers placed on a piece of equipment or on the floor or wall of an office building. Then safety information about the location or equipment – such as a reach stacker used to move containers around the terminal – was displayed on the screen.
In the case of the reach stacker, the app provided details of the safe distance to stand away from the machine while it was in operation. An animation showed the range of motion the machine was capable of and how much space it needs to carry and stack containers in the yard. Another digital marker on the ground — much like a poster — showed potentially unsafe areas at the entrance to the terminal area. Previously, the operational layout of some areas of the terminal were only available on paper. Now, they can be accessed at any time via the AR app.
Graphic Design Triggers 3D Videos
Working with a local contractor, the health and safety team developed marketing campaign materials that were accessed via posters and stickers with a graphic design that triggered access to the 3D information and safety training videos. The markers and stickers functioned like QR codes, prompting the phone app to display the requested materials.
AR Takes Over Training
APM has joined organisations such as Boeing, DHL, and the U.S. Marine Corps in adding augmented reality to employee training to improve effectiveness. Market researchers estimate that overall demand for augmented reality will drive market growth from $ 11.4 billion in 2018 to $ 60.55 billion by 2023.
Virtual Tours
In addition to APM Terminals Brazil, other APM Terminals’ companies have experimented with augmented and virtual reality. At the 2018 Trans-Pacific Maritime Conference, visitors could take a virtual tour of Pier 400 at the Port of Los Angeles. Also, the Maersk Resolute drilling rig was the subject of a virtual tour for customers.
Engaging
Using AR for training builds on the gaming habits of younger workers, and engages older workers in a new environment, writes Jay Samit, vice chairman of Deloitte's Digital Reality practice in Forbes.com. Millions of people of all ages use their smartphones for communications and games, so using the same tools for company training will engage workers in a familiar way.
After the successful test for Global Safety Day, APM Terminals Brazil plans to adopt AR technology for future campaigns. In the coming years, APM Terminals plans to take AR to the next level in its training programs.
Pictures by APM Terminals.
