Construction Goes Virtual!

25 Jul 2024

VR Safety Training Boosts Construction Employment Rates

The New Zealand construction industry is revolutionising health and safety training with virtual reality (VR), thanks to a partnership between Site Safe and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). The Site Safe Foundation Passport VR course, developed with SkillsVR, immerses job seekers in simulated construction sites to practice safety protocols in a controlled environment.

This innovative programme is at Site Safe's main centres and is delivered by MSD to job seekers at various sites and employment events across New Zealand.

Over the past year 1,500 MSD job seekers have completed training. Impressively, nearly 40% of participants—589 individuals—have secured construction jobs.

The VR training is also attracting job seekers to various construction sub-sectors, such as roofing, air conditioning, and landscaping. Christine Crawford from Corrections highlights the programme’s success in boosting participants' confidence and skills.

Amanda Nicolle, MSD's Director of Industry Partnerships, applauds the initiative for bridging skill gaps and simplifying the hiring process.

Site Safe Chief Executive Brett Murray believes this partnership is transforming lives and making a lasting impact on the industry.

“The VR environment allows learners knowledge to be assessed at key points of learning as they move through the course.”

For more information on the Site Safe Foundation Passport VR courses, click HERE.