Effectiveness of Immersed VR Technology in Construction Safety

Abstract

This study addresses the persistent gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in construction safety training by designing and evaluating an immersive Virtual Reality (VR)-based training module for novice Indian front-line supervisors. Despite the high-risk nature of the construction industry, traditional lecture-based methods often fail to achieve the necessary procedural knowledge transfer, particularly regarding the correct selection and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). We employed a multi-phased methodology involving the development of a high-fidelity, interactive VR simulation using Unity and Blender, which modelled a realistic construction site and required users to select the correct PPE from valid and distractor options. Testing with supervisor students, who initially demonstrated minimal practical PPE knowledge, showed a marked improvement in selection accuracy following repeated self-paced VR practice, supported by immediate visual feedback. Post-training assessment revealed strong user acceptance and significant learning gains: 92% of participants rated the training as Very helpful or extremely helpful for learning safety procedures. Furthermore, participants reported high levels of realism (92% Very or Extremely realistic), engagement (96% Very or Extremely engaging), and a significant boost in confidence (92% Very or Extremely confident) for on-site PPE application. The results provide empirical evidence that immersive VR is a superior pedagogical tool, effectively bridging the knowledge-to-action gap by fostering procedural memory and situational awareness in a risk-free environment. Our present research supports the implementation of environmentally and realistically appropriate virtual reality (VR) solutions for construction safety education in order to improve productivity and, eventually, lower workplace dangers.