VR for HAZMAT Decon Facility Training

The team explored the potential of Virtual Reality (VR) for training in a simulated HAZMAT decontamination facility. 

The study involved 11 participants who underwent a decontamination scenario in VR, followed by a semi-structured interview. The findings highlight the potential of VR for providing a safe and immersive environment for HAZMAT training, with participants reporting a positive experience and perceived benefits for learning and safety.

It was found that mass decontamination training is crucial for hospital staff to effectively respond to large-scale chemical or radiological emergencies. Conventional training methods involve resource-intensive and time-consuming on-site simulations in open decontamination facilities (ODFs). A VR system would address these challenges, simulating decontamination workflows, casualty scanning, and prioritisation under emergency conditions.