J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. announced last week the release of virtual reality training, available in its J. J. Keller Training online solution portal. 

The company said in a Feb. 11 news release that the new training format, accessible with a compatible virtual reality headset, allows learners to navigate realistic simulations of safety and compliance situations they may encounter in their jobs.

A study conducted last year by the J. J. Keller Center for Market Insights found that 67% of managers surveyed would consider using VR training, representing significant interest and opportunity for this format.

J. J. Keller said its VR training offers various benefits that set it apart, most notably, it fits seamlessly into J. J. Keller’s existing training ecosystem. 

Customers can enroll learners in VR courses and track their performance in the J. J. Keller Training solution alongside online E-Learning, streaming video, and classroom program formats.

Customers can also use J. J. Keller’s standard training enrollments on VR training. This is the same type of enrollment used on J. J. Keller's other training formats. There is no need to purchase any kind of special enrollment at an increased price to enroll learners in VR courses.

The company says other key advantages to VR training include:

• Improved Engagement & Retention: VR programs offer a more engaging, immersive training experience that increases the likelihood of employees applying their knowledge and skills in the “real world.”
• “Freedom to Fail”: By navigating dangerous situations in a virtual environment, learners can make mistakes safely while still feeling that the consequences are real.
• Convenience: On-the-go or remote employees may rarely be onsite. VR training ensures employees receive the instruction they need, regardless of location.
• Cost-Effectiveness: No need to fly professional trainers in for training sessions. Virtual programs provide exceptional training while keeping costs down.

"Giving customers a choice in format is important to us,” said J. J. Keller President and CEO Rustin Keller.

“Innovating in a way that captures the learner's imagination and improves engagement is something we seek constantly. I'm really excited about this new option for trainers,” Keller added. “One demonstration and it's clear this changes the way people learn. It's fantastic.”

At launch, J. J. Keller offers 16 VR training programs: 

Workplace Safety & Health

• Arc Flash (Flashover)
• Confined Space Entry
• Electrical Safety
• Fire Safety (The Office)
• Hazard Recognition - Warehouse
• Hot Work
• Ladder Safety
• Lockout/Tagout
• Trenching and Excavation Safety

Transportation

• Brake System: Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
• Engine and Front Axle: Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
• In-Vehicle: Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
• Lights: Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
• Walk-Around: Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
• Road Safety Traffic Accident With Dangerous Goods

Human Resources

• Active Shooter Response Training for Civilians (Office)

J. J. Keller said it would regularly introduce new VR courses to its library for these and other markets.

“By adding virtual reality training to our offerings, we're providing our customers with an easy way to practice scenarios in a realistic, hands-on environment,” said J. J. Keller Executive Vice President of Technology Solutions Lacie Callan. 

“Whether in a confined space, working with machinery, or inspecting vehicles, virtual reality allows for self-paced learning in all types of situations that prepare employees to safety do their jobs,” Callan added.

To access these VR courses, learners must use the J. J. Keller Virtual Reality Training Headset (PICO Neo3). The headset is available from J. J. Keller and provides everything needed to start.

Learn more about J. J. Keller’s virtual reality training and take a free trial.