USAR | Earthquake VR training
We helped USAR develop a VR training program that simulates earthquake scenarios, enabling teams to practice assessments, hazard detection, and rescue protocols in a safe, controlled environment before real-world deployments.
The Client
The Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team is deployed to disaster areas following earthquakes to locate and rescue trapped individuals. The first step in their operations is conducting a thorough situation assessment (ASR2) to gather critical information for decision-making. To enhance training for their team members, USAR sought a solution that would prepare them for these high-stakes missions using virtual reality.
The Question
The USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) team is dispatched to disaster areas when an earthquake has taken place and persons are trapped under the rubble of collapsed structures. The first step in the field is a thorough situation assessment that provides information needed to make initial USAR coordination decisions; ASR2. To help prepare and train team members, the organization was looking into virtual reality as a possible solution. VR Owl was asked to help develop a VR training program
The Solution
We created a VR training where different earthquake scenarios can be simulated. The trainer can determine the impact (scale of Richter) and time of day (day or night).
Each scenario consists of five worksites. By visually inspecting the worksite, talking to informants and listening closely for survivors, USAR students must make an assessment so that the correct label can be determined and therefore correct materials can be selected for rescue operations. The visual detection of possible hazardous materials is also included.
Additionally, users can practice making markings on buildings in line with international USAR’s protocol. So all teams are able to be informed on the work progress of that particular work site.
