Safety risk profiles driving tram simulator upgrades

Drawing on data driving the LRSSB’s Safety Risk Model, advanced virtual reality software powering the simulators has been updated to include new scenarios based on real-world safety threats.

Thanks to funding from the LRSSB, the upgrades have been developed and installed by Avansim, a company that already provides simulator technology to most UK light rail systems, including London Trams, West Midlands Metro, Manchester Metrolink, NET in Nottingham, and Edinburgh Trams.

Laura Reardon, Head of Safety Risk Management at the LRSSB, explained: “This investment in virtual reality technology is now helping to drive home safety messages that address the most significant risks that drivers may face.

“The new scenarios include tram surfing, track defects, and an expansion of potential collisions with members of the public and were founded on risk-informed and evidence-based sector data.

“The upgrades have also been rolled out as part of a wider push toward competency-based assessment and training that has already delivered a major boost for light rail safety.”

Avansim Director, Ian Rowe, added: “We’re delighted to be able to provide additional tools for all networks that currently use our simulators, and as a result of this collaboration, we can help drivers to train for complex and high-risk situations in the safety of a simulated environment.”

Following the installation of the new software at Edinburgh Trams, the operator’s Training Manager, Marlene Pearson-McGrath, added: “Whilst tailored to our network, these new simulator scenarios provide us with the benefit of shared learning and experiences from the wider sector.

“We continuously look to improve and test competence by using innovative and technological solutions, and as a critical tool in our drivers’ Competence Management System, it is vitally important we can adapt and refresh our simulator training to address our emerging risks.”