Byrnecut improves staff skills with immersive simulation

Underground mining contractor Byrnecut has announced that it has set up a technical training centre in Perth involving the latest in immersive training technology.

Through its partnership with Immersive Technologies, Byrnecut says that it is now set to achieve measurable in-field cost reductions, productivity gains and safety improvements via changes in equipment operator behaviour.

Equipment Simulators, a tailored suite of learning systems and curricula, has been deployed to align with Byrnecut’s ‘people first’ approach to recruitment, skills development and performance improvement.

“The establishment of this training and induction centre very much fits with the Byrnecut philosophy of investing in industry-leading training systems, processes and infrastructure to assist in the personal and professional development of our employees,” said Pat Boniwell, Byrnecut Australia Managing Director. “This in turn ensures that we are providing the safest and most productive work places for employees and our clients.”

Immersive Technologies has delivered two IM360-B simulators and machine modules for a CAT truck and LHD, Sandvik truck and LHD and Atlas Copco (Epiroc) truck.

Supporting the technology integration is a training process that blends e-learning, classroom and simulator training to optimise the learning process for both new-hire and experienced equipment operators. This process is managed through the collaboration of Byrnecut and Immersive Technologies on-site training experts.

“Our training and induction centre provides the opportunity for experienced and new-hire operators to develop best mining practices in a safe, realistic and tech-driven environment,” said Dave Kilkenny, Byrnecut Project Manager. “Together with Immersive Technologies’ equipment simulators and specialist personnel, our approach is carefully considered to provide valuable feedback and targeted training to address the impacts of performance variability on our business.”