VR Technologies in Personnel Training: Practices of LLC ZARUBEZHNEFT-Dobycha Kharyaga

A well-known Russian proverb says: "Better to see once than to hear a hundred times." And this is a scientifically proven fact. According to various data, between 60% and 70% of information is received through sight.

In addition, as mentioned in one of the previous articles, a person remembers new material most effectively if they apply the acquired knowledge in practice independently. But what if such an opportunity is not always available in production? Moreover, the cost of an error is high, and from an industrial safety perspective, an error is fundamentally unacceptable.

As part of implementing a risk-oriented approach at LLC ZARUBEZHNEFT-Dobycha Kharyaga, the "Electronic Technical Digital Passport" project was launched, and a digital 3D model of the Oil Treatment and Collection Point was developed.

During operations at this facility, process unit operators perform routine tasks daily (oil and gas sampling, switching vessels and pipelines, starting pumping and compressor equipment) as well as non-standard, "one-off" tasks: commissioning new equipment, draining, purging, and steaming pipelines for future tie-ins or modernization.

Step-by-step instructions have been developed for every type of work and piece of equipment. These are integrated into a universal VR simulator for practicing correct actions in a virtual environment. The system accounts for all process requirements, from well production entering process pipelines to the transport of commercial oil to the sales system. Training is mandatory before starting independent work, during annual knowledge assessments, and before scheduled maintenance and repair shutdowns.

An important component of this system is the tool for selecting personal protective equipment (PPE). Depending on the nature of the work, the operator must classify hazards and identify harmful and dangerous production factors at the workplace.

Another vital tool is the ability to virtually explore equipment from the inside — disassembling it "to the last screw," which is impossible during normal operation without stopping the process.

The use of VR-based training has allowed LLC ZARUBEZHNEFT-Dobycha Kharyaga to increase material retention by an average of 30% and hone the skills for safe work performance among unit personnel.

The implementation of these projects marks another major step for the Company in developing a safety culture and has significantly reduced the risks of incidents.