A first of its kind virtual reality cave featuring an interactive rail platform and computer generated passengers is being used by Arriva Trains Wales to improve passenger safety on the Cambrian Coast line.

The train operating company has invested over £100,000 in the platform-train interface virtual reality cave located in Arriva Trains Wales’ driver training centre in St David’s House, Cardiff.

The software was developed by Telford-based Virtual Reality Simulation Systems, who specialise in using computer game technology to deliver safety and educational training for businesses.

The new simulator comprises a three-walled room called the CAVE, where projectors and screens create an immersive virtual train platform allowing the user to navigate around the virtual reality station using a wireless hand-held controller, to interact with customers, trains and objects as they go.

It contains a number of scenarios which will be used by conductors and station staff to recognise behaviours and identify potential risks and hazards to passengers and develop their situational awareness.

Gareth Thomas, human resources director at Arriva Trains Wales said: “In the last five years, 15 people have been killed in platform-train interface incidents across the UK and another 254 major have suffered major injuries.

“With such significant numbers of fatalities and incidents occurring as a result of this activity, we have a responsibility to ensure that the safety of our staff and customers is maintained and, where possible improved.

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