Using simulations to provide safety and operations training in the electric power industry

Computer-based simulations can now be used as an effective tool to train people who work in and around substations. Developed specifically for the electric power industry, this new tool provides a realistic, virtual environment that can be used for training three basic categories of individuals: those who enter a substation, but never perform switching duties; those who enter a substation to inspect it prior to the start of hot-line work; and those who perform hot-line work. For trainees in the first group, classroom instruction supplemented with text and an occasional video has been the major method of delivering training. For others, supplemental, hands-on, on-the-job instruction has been the ultimate instructional strategy. Now, however, simulations offer many training advantages for all these individuals. Simulations can: provide an interactive overview of the substation environment through which the trainee can move as they learn what a substation is and how it works; provide an arena in which common procedures and safe work practices can be demonstrated and practised without real danger to the trainee; offer a level of on-the-job experience that is not readily available; optimize the time frame required to complete actions; control complexity of the learning situation; and be offered to every trainee much more cost effectively.