JD Irving using new Vortex Training Simulators to train heavy equipment operators, improve safety; 45 employees have been trained throughout northern New Brunswick using immersive simulators across 12 equipment types, like wheel harvesters, log loaders

J.D. Irving, Limited is improving safety training for its team with new Vortex Training Simulators. 

"By training heavy equipment operators across regions with a fully immersive simulator, sites and operators will be made safer. It will also allow for faster training, improved competency of operators and reduced machinery incidents," said Daniel Couturier, Senior Director of Health, Safety and Environment for Sawmills and Woodlands.

The training simulators are adaptable to train individuals on different equipment. They include up to five screens and a motion platform for maximum immersion and trainee engagement. An instructor operating station also allows the trainer to guide and monitor students by controlling exercises from their own dedicated interface, much like driving instructors in personal vehicles.

So far, 45 employees have been trained throughout northern New Brunswick using the Vortex simulators across 12 different equipment types, including wheel harvesters, forwarders, log loaders, dozers, excavators and more. This attention to in-depth training before a trainee steps into any heavy equipment machinery will result in safer operators and sites, faster training and better trained operators.

J.D. Irving, Limited constantly strives to make training and daily operation safer because nothing is as important as staff going home safe to their families and loved ones.