AU2016101232A4 - Interactive safety training and assessment - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for training and assessing workplace health and safety to one or more users, comprising: one or more client devices in communication with a server and featuring a display; wherein the system is adapted to execute an application on the client device; and wherein the application is adapted to perform the steps of: loading in memory an information button that links to a display that describes the requirements of the application; loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one video; loading in memory of the client device from a data store a plurality of images depicting one or more hazards in a scene; wherein the plurality of images represent the surfaces over 4rr steradians of a three dimensional environment; presenting the plurality of images via the display of the client device and receiving, as input from the user, the user's identification or non-identification of one or more of the hazards; maintaining in memory of the client device a record of results of hazards correctly and incorrectly identified by the user; and receiving from the user the user's an indication of one or more remedial actions to be taken to control the hazards. Figure 6

Description

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to training and assessment systems for workplace health and safety.

Background [0002] Effective work health and safety training and assessment delivery is difficult to achieve because it is bound by complex legislation and traditional training and assessment methods. Interactive training and assessment methods that are based on adult learning techniques begin to overcome this problem.

[0003] Traditional classroom training delivered at workplace inductions as well as specific safety training (for example, working at heights, hazard perception and manual handling) rely on content aimed at the group and typically use slide presentations made up of a high number of slides. This method of training fails in a number of ways.

[0004] First, the training is not engaging and workers ‘switch off often very early in the session in the belief that they have heard the content in the past. For example, in the case of safety inductions, the training content becomes ‘white noise’ as workers encounter ‘induction deafness’ (Bahn, S., 2012, ‘Workplace hazard identification: What do workers in mining know?’, Journal of Health, Safety and Environment, 28(3), pp. 371-382; Bahn, S., 2013, ‘Workplace hazard identification and management: The case of an underground mining operation’, Safety Science, 57, pp. 129-137). Furthermore, the training does not generally encourage interaction or participation.

[0005] Second, there is an expectation that workers have a competent level of hazard awareness that is required to understand the training content. This assumption is false because research has shown that perception of the risk of workplace hazards varies from person to person (Manuele, F.A., 2010, ‘Acceptable risk: Time for SH&E professionals to adopt the concept’, Professional Safety, May, 30-38) and workers often fail to recognise even obvious workplace hazards (Bahn, 2012; 2013) and suffer from ‘risk blindness’ (Frosdick, S., 1997, The techniques of risk analysis are insufficient in themselves’, Disaster Prevention and Management, 6(3), 165-177).

[0006] Third, training activities about workplace hazards are often focused on very particular risks and their individual treatment, rather than taking a holistic view. It is only when a worker starts work that they encounter some solutions such as job safety analyses that expect a holistic assessment of workplace risk. However, the repetitive nature of these once again can result in automated, unconsidered (‘tick and flick’) compliance, rather than engaged acceptance of risk and how that may affect the individual.

[0007] Fourth, conventional training requires English language and literacy competency. However, in Australia 40% of workers are only functionally literate (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2012, 1301.0—Year Book Australia). This lack of competency impedes the flow of knowledge transfer in the complex realm of safety training and assessment.

[0008] Finally, the large contingent of migrant workers per head of population in Australia (27% in 2011; Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2012, 2071.0—Reflecting a Nation: Stories from the 2011 Census, 2012-2013) can bring with it workers with a poor familiarity with English as a second language. Furthermore, some workers are migrating from countries with a poorer health and safety culture than Australia (International Labour Organisation, 2005, ‘Report on the Regional Tripartite Workshop on National Occupational Safety and Health Programmes’, Proceedings of Regional Tripartite Workshop on National Occupational Safety, Thailand) that in turn can undermine work health and safety performance.

[0009] Adding to the problem, traditional assessment measures are often paper based and can become merely ‘tick and flick’ exercises particularly when literacy and English language competencies are low. They often fail to indicate the learning that has occurred. Furthermore, there is no evidence of the transfer of this learning into the workplace other than lag indicators such as workplace injury, disease and fatality rates and there is little or no follow up assessment to refresh the training and identify any learning gaps to reinforce good practice.

[0010] Compounding these issues is the reality of very few interactive products (for example, training and assessment tools) that deliver safety inductions and specific safety training. Those that are available consist of in-house training content and assessment criteria delivered once at induction. These tools are generally paper-based or slide-based in nature, very dense in content, fail to engage the worker, delivered in a classroom setting with little or no recognition of worker literacy deficiencies. Workers are failing to engage in training in health and safety because it is generally delivered poorly with a re-statement of complex and complicated legislative requirements (workers are talked at, rather than encouraged to participate). Consequently, these activities are viewed as merely an exercise in compliance.

[0011] Each document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is expressly incorporated herein in their entirety by reference, which means that it should be read and considered by the reader as part of this text. That the document, reference, patent application, or patent cited in this text is not repeated in this text is merely for reasons of conciseness.

[0012] Reference to cited material or information contained in the text should not be understood as a concession that the material or information was part of the common general knowledge or was known in Australia or any other country.

[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a practical proposal that at least seeks to address these and other limitations to existing approaches of workplace health and safety training and assessment.

Summary of the Invention [0014] The present invention in a first aspect provides a system for teaching and assessing workplace safety to one or more users, comprising one or more client devices in communication with a server and featuring a display; wherein the system is adapted to execute an application on the client device; and wherein the application is adapted to perform the steps of: loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one video depicting a scene of hazardous/non-hazardous work practices; loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one additional image, audio file, video, supporting document that provides training for one or more hazards in a scene; loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one image depicting one or more hazards in a scene or one scenario describing an issue in a scene; presenting the image via the display of the client device and receiving, as input from the user, the user’s identification or non-identification of one or more of the hazards; and maintaining in memory of the client device a record of results of hazards correctly and incorrectly identified by the user.

[0015] Preferably, the application receives from the user an indication of one or more remedial actions to be taken to control the hazards.

[0016] Preferably, the application receives from the user an, at least, partial indication of the critical control action to control the hazards.

[0017] Preferably, the application receives from the user an, at least, partial ranking in order of priority of the hazards according to severity or the actions required upon entering the scene.

[0018] Preferably, the application operates to synchronise the image and produce a record of the results between the server and the data store of the client device.

[0019] Preferably, the server is operatively in communication with the client device via a communications medium, wherein the server can be accessed by a Content Management System (CMS) to perform at least one of: add content to the application; add modules to the application; access individual reports; access overall reports aggregated across users; export results; view the results in a visual analytic format; or manage users’ profiles.

[0020] Preferably, the application further performs a step of displaying to the user an indication of which hazards, controls, critical controls or ranking were correctly identified.

[0021] Preferably, the application provides additional teaching materials to support the management of the hazards in the images or scenarios describing an issue in the scenes.

[0022] Preferably, the application further performs a step of providing to the user an audio commentary to accompany visual instructions in a multi-lingual format if required.

[0023] In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for presenting training and assessing workplace safety to one or more users, comprising one or more client devices in communication with a server and featuring a display, wherein the application is adapted to execute an application on the client device for performing steps of: loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one video depicting one or more hazards in a scene; loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one image depicting one or more hazards in a scene or scenarios describing one issue in a scene; presenting the image via the display of the client device and receiving as input from the user, the user’s identification or non-identification of one or more of the hazards; maintaining in memory of the client device a record of results of hazards correctly and incorrectly identified by the user; receiving from the user at least partial indication of remedial actions to be taken to control the hazards; and receiving from the user at least partial indication of critical remedial action to be taken to control the hazards.

[0024] In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for training and assessing workplace safety to one or more users, comprising one or more client devices in communication with a server and featuring a display, wherein the application is adapted to execute an application on the client device for performing steps of: loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one video depicting one or more hazards in a scene; loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one image depicting one or more hazards in a scene or scenarios describing one issue in a scene; presenting the image via the display of the client device and receiving as input from the user, the user’s identification or non-identification of one or more of the hazards; maintaining in memory of the client device a record of results of hazards correctly and incorrectly identified by the user; receiving from the user an, at least, partial ranking in order of priority of the hazards.

[0025] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for teaching hazard perception to one or more users, comprising one or more client devices in communication with a server and featuring a display, wherein the application is adapted to execute an application on the client device for performing steps of: loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one image depicting one or more hazards in a scene or scenarios describing one issue in a scene; presenting the image via the display of the client device and receiving, as input from the user, the user’s identification or non-identification of one or more of the hazards; maintaining in memory of the client device a record of results of hazards correctly and incorrectly identified by the user; and synchronising the image and record of results between the server and the data store of the client device.

[0026] In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for training and assessing workplace health and safety to one or more users, comprising one or more client devices in communication with a server and featuring a display; wherein the system is adapted to execute an application on the client device; and wherein the application is adapted to perform the steps of: loading in memory an information button that links to a display that describes the requirements of the application; loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one video; loading in memory of the client device from a data store a plurality of images depicting one or more hazards in a scene; wherein the plurality of images represent the surfaces over 4π steradians of a three dimensional environment; presenting the plurality of images via the display of the client device and receiving, as input from the user, the user’s identification or non-identification of one or more of the hazards; maintaining in memory of the client device a record of results of hazards correctly and incorrectly identified by the user; and receiving from the user the user’s identification or non-identification of one or more of the controls.

[0027] Advantageously, the application trains and assesses workplace health and safety to individual workers across all industry sectors using a holistic methodology. Providing self-paced, engaged health and safety training developed using adult learning principles can be expected to reduce the incidence of workplace injury, deaths and disease. In order to achieve an objective of health and safety performance improvements, targeted training that delivers fundamental safety knowledge and increased hazard perception skills and improved mental health strategies across a diverse population has been recognised as a positive way forward. The application engages the user through visual, audial, and tactile responses that immerse them interactively in the content that encourages an emotional connection, resulting in effective learning transfer and positive behavioural change.

[0028] The application delivers the essential workplace safety training and assessment using a gaming methodology and multiple platform delivery. The application delivers preferably a short video scenario followed by a photographic scenario depicting a number of typical workplace hazards that requires the user to touch on the tablet or click on the computer screen where they think there is a hazardous example. From there the user works through teaching material that addresses this hazard (for example, additional photographs of correct control devices such as fire extinguishers, information about chemical use (Safety Data Sheets), the relevant workplace procedure, etc.). From there the user is asked to select a number of control options to control the hazard. After which they select the critical control to best control the hazard according to the procedures of their organisation. From there the user is returned to the photograph and is asked to work through the remaining hazards. Any hazards that the user fails to select are displayed and the user is asked to select a number of control options to control the hazard. After which they select the critical control to best control the hazard according to the procedures of their organisation. A score of their achievement is displayed.

[0029] From there the user is asked to work through a series of hidden hazard examples that apply to the photograph. From there the user works through teaching material that addresses this hazard (for example, additional photographs of correct control devices such as fire extinguishers, information about chemical use (Safety Data Sheets), the relevant workplace procedure, etc.). From there the user is asked to select a number of control options to control the hidden hazard. After which they select the critical control to best control the hidden hazard according to the procedures of their organisation.

[0030] Once all hazards (both obvious and hidden) have been identified or failed to be identified the user is asked which hazard they would tackle first, ordering all hazards by priority according to severity or the actions required upon entering the scene. The top hazards (in any order) are awarded a score. The user is shown the correct top hazards accompanied with an audio explanation as to why they are considered as such. In one embodiment four correct hazards are displayed but variations on this number is envisaged.

[0031] The application provides short descriptors fully supported with extended audio tracks to support users with limited English language and literacy skills. If a user has difficulties reading the text they can complete the test solely through audio instructions. In addition the audio track can be multi-lingual should this be required. The application can include both English text and audio content in multiple languages. The application can also link to Australian health and safety training competencies with a view to making the application transferable across organisations to any particular workplace field.

[0032] User test results, longitudinal individual results and company results are accessed online via a CMS accessible at the server for the administrators and by downloading test histories for individual users while playing the games across the application. The CMS test results reside on a cloud database and are password protected to ensure security for each client device and established as an enterprise account to ensure the client’s data is protected. Results are detailed to show the pass rate of individual users, the hazards the users found, the controls and critical control that the users choose correctly and the correct rankings that the users determined. The reporting of the results to this level of analysis is provided by the CMS and displayed in both a data and visual analytic format.

[0033] Fundamentally, the Tap into Safety application delivers the essential content of complex and dense health and safety regulations in a simple, fun and interactive way that engages users and is fully customised according to an organisation’s procedures and aligned with a particular corporate culture. The Tap into Safety applications may be used flexibly and regularly at safety induction training, as a pre-employment safety assessment, to assess hazard awareness skills, to train and assess emergency response, to train and assess supervisors in their leadership skills, to train and assess accident reviews, and to train and assess worker wellbeing. The assigning of final scores for user performance both provides evidence of knowledge gaps from which to deliver additional training and supports competition among employees to improve performance (which is expected can significantly improve the culture of workplace safety and consequently reduce workplace injury, disease and fatalities).

[0034] An extension of the above 2D features in the application is panoramic functionality. The photographic scenario is extended to a 360/180 degree panoramic view that allows the user to swipe the tablet or click on the computer screen to travel around the scene. The extended view includes depiction to the right hand side, left hand side, behind, above and underneath the user. This photographic scene is stitched together from multiple photographic scenes and includes a number of typical workplace hazards. The hazard ‘hot spots’ are attached to the moving grid that supports the panoramic functionality. The user is required to touch on the tablet or click on the computer screen where they think there is a hazardous example. From there the user works through teaching material that addresses this hazard (for example, additional photographs of correct control devices such as fire extinguishers, information about chemical use (Safety Data Sheets), the relevant workplace procedure, etc.). From there the user is asked to select a number of control options to control the hazard. After which they select the critical control to best control the hazard according to the procedures of their organisation. From there the user is returned to the photograph and is asked to work through the remaining hazards. Any hazards that the user fails to select are displayed and the user is asked to select a number of control options to control the hazard. After which they select the critical control to best control the hazard according to the procedures of their organisation. A score of their achievement is displayed.

[0035] From there the user is asked to work through a series of hidden hazard examples that apply to the photograph and ranking requirements as with the 2D version of the application.

Brief Description of the Drawings [0036] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a client-server architecture for a system for training and assessing workplace safety according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic representation of components of a software application used with the system for training and assessing workplace safety according to the first embodiment;

Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a server used with the system for training and assessing workplace safety according to the first embodiment;

Figure 4 is a schematic representation of an administrator interacting with the server of Figure 3 and a client device;

Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a client device interacting with the server of Figure 3;

Figure 6 is a flowchart of an example of an interactive safety induction process used with the system for training and assessing workplace safety according to the first embodiment;

Figure 7 is a schematic representation of applications that can be used in the interactive safety induction of Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a flowchart of a supervision/leadership training and assessment process used with the system for training and assessing workplace safety according to the first embodiment;

Figure 9 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 10 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 11 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 12 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 13 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 14 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 15 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 16 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 17 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 18 is a screen shot from one of the applications of Figure 7;

Figure 19 is a screen shot from a second embodiment of system for training and assessing workplace safety;

Figure 20 is a screen shot from a second embodiment of system for training and assessing workplace safety; and

Figure 21 is a screen shot from a second embodiment of system for training and assessing workplace safety.

[0037] In the drawings like structures are referred to by like numerals throughout the several views. The drawings shown are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the present invention.

Description of Embodiments [0038] In broad terms, the present invention provides integrated or realistic (real-world) scenario training and assessment that better reflects the nature of actual workplace situations—rather than a vertical, silo or category approach which is formulaic, and does not correspond to what workers encounter during daily duties. As an example, a realistic scenario may envisage a worker having to deal with an emergency such as a gas leak, while working in a confined space, on slippery surfaces, on debris and trip hazards, with moving machinery behind him and overhead, all at the same time. Another example is the analysis of how to control such a situation and the order in which control measures should be engaged. By ‘control’ what is intended is a suggestion of suitable corrective or remedial action that controls or mitigates the hazards under consideration in this scenario. In this emergency there is the need to ensure an adequate breathing apparatus is worn, other workers are informed of the gas leak, barricades are placed around the confined space, housekeeping is performed to clean up the site, moving equipment to sound warning horns and use warning lights, etc. The decisions made when assessing these hazards in a holistic work area can be entirely different from those that would be made if training and assessing individual hazard controls. Furthermore, the way in which a worker responds is a reflection of the safety procedures that are trained and assessed in the safety induction and other safety training, illustrating the learning transfer to form the culture of that organisation.

[0039] To implement the system for training and assessing workplace safety, the present invention uses a client-server architecture, in which client devices are connected via the internet to a server, in particular an internet storage or ‘cloud’ service, and the client devices execute applications which rely on data (images, data) retrieved from the server. The server can be administered as required to update operation and content of the application to reflect requirements at hand and operational changes in the work environment.

[0040] The application, as referred to herein in relation to a preferred embodiment thereof, is known as the Tap into Safety™ (Tap into Safety’) application, and uses a game-style format to interact with users or users using the application. The methodology within the invention has application across at least, but not being limited to, seven product variations, for example safety induction training and assessment, pre-employment safety assessment, hazard perception training and review, emergency response training and assessment, supervision/leadership training and assessment, wellbeing awareness and assessment, and accident review training and assessment.

[0041] The system for training and assessing workplace safety of the present invention will now be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Referring to Figure 1, the system for training and assessing workplace safety according to a first embodiment includes a client-server architecture. The client-server architecture comprises a server 10 representative of a cloud computing platform. The server 10 may be used to execute application and/or system services such as a system and method for facilitating an electronic financial transaction in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The server 10 is connected to the internet 20 (indicated as The Cloud’), to which multiple client devices 30 connect during operation of the system.

[0043] The server 10 includes instructions that may be installed in ROM, RAM or disc drives and may be executed by a processor. There may be provided a plurality of communication links which may variously connect to one or more of the client devices 30. At least one of a plurality of communications link may be connected to an external computing network through a telecommunications network.

[0044] The client devices 30 are computing devices. The client devices 30 are commonly a tablet computer or smartphone. Examples of tablet computers include iPads supplied by Apple, Inc. The client devices 30 can also be, laptop computers, desktop computers or otherwise as would be understood by the skilled addressee.

[0045] Referring to Figure 2, specific components of a software application 31, namely the aforementioned Tap into Safety’ application, which is distributed to, and executing on, the client devices 30 are illustrated. These components comprise a Test Component 32, Results Component 34, Users Component 36 and Data Store and Sync Component 38. Each of these noted components interface with each other. The test component 32 is where a user takes one of the assessments of the present invention. The Results component 34 is where the user accesses the results of a test they have taken through test component 32. The Users component 36 is where user specific details and progress are accessed and updated. Data Store and Sync Component 38 enables test data or other details to be uploaded to a client device 30.

[0046] Referring to Figure 3, components of the server 10 are illustrated. These components comprise a Reporting Engine 11, Results Engine 12, Test Engine 13, User Component 14 and Data Sync Component 15. The Reporting Engine 11 interfaces with the Results Engine 12, and Users Component 14. The Results Engine 12 interfaces with the both the Reporting Engine 11, Test Engine 13 and Users Component 14. The Test Engine 13 interfaces with the Results Engine 12 and the Users Component 14. The Users Component 14, as described, interfaces with each of the Reporting Engine 11, Results Engine 12 and Test Engine 13, as well as the Data Sync Component 15.

[0047] Referring to Figure 4, the manner in which an administrator interacts via an Administrator workstation 40 with the server 10, and by extension client devices 30 is illustrated.

[0048] This interaction is performed via a Cloud based database. The administrator loads the software application 31 in a web browser on the workstation 40, and logs in using a username and password. The administrator then uses the software application 31 to enter test data (via modify/add/delete commands) for an existing or new test into the test component 32. This can include adding both text and images. When work is complete, the administrator saves their work, and relevant data is transferred from the workstation 40 to the server 10. Textual data is saved to a SQL server database stored in the memory (typically disk) of the server 10, and image data (typically images) and stored directly to the memory of the server 10.

[0049] When a user wishes to undertake a test, data must first be downloaded (synchronised) using the data store and sync component 38 on the user’s client device 30. The client device 30 makes a web service request to the server 10, and then loads data from the server 10, stored in the memory of the server as described above. Textual data is saved to a lightweight SQL database in the client device 30, and images are stored directly to the memory of the client device 30 or to a separate storage device.

[0050] Referring to Figure 5, the interaction of the client device 30 with the server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. A user opens the software application 31 distributed to and executing on the client device 30, and enters their first name, last name and password by way of user authentication. The application then loads data pertaining to the logged user account to memory, and checks the user’s presented authentication (password) against the stored details. If correct, application-specification information in the form of test information and history data is loaded to memory.

[0051] The user, operating the software application 31 on the client device 30 selects a test for the user to undertake and each time a user completes a test screen, the information the user has entered is transferred from memory to storage.

[0052] When the user completes a test they press a synchronisation/finish button, which transfers all data stored in storage (via an SQL database, or file system) to the server 10 via a web services connection using the Data Store and Sync Component 38. The server 10 loads and saves the data to storage, which as described is a SQL server database and an underlying file system.

[0053] Referring to Figure 6, a flowchart of steps involved in an Interactive Safety Induction Process used in the system for training and assessing workplace safety is illustrated.

[0054] At log in step 100 a user logs onto the Tap into Safety application for a test session. The user selects the language that they wish to use to complete the test.

[0055] A user listens to an audio soundtrack which is prompted at various junctions of the application as required, in audio instructions step 102. A user can refer to a ‘Units of Competency’ screen associated with this test by tapping on a designated button on the screen.

[0056] Immediately following audio instructions step 102, in test history step 104, a user is queried and requested to answer whether or not a user has completed the test previously.

[0057] If the user’s answer indicates that they have taken the test before the user is queried and requested to answer if they wish to check their previous results in result check step 106.

[0058] Should a user elect to check their previous results, then they are directed to activate a “Test Screen History” icon at test history check step 108 which displays the user’s previous results.

[0059] Immediately thereafter, the user is queried on their desire to complete a new test in test query step 110.

[0060] Should the user answer the query of test query step 110 that they do not wish to complete a new test they are progressed to log out step 112.

[0061] If the user answers the query of test step 110 that they wish to complete a new test they are progressed to test file selection step 114. A user is also directed to the test file selection step 114 from test history step 104 if the user indicates that they have not completed a test previously. A selection is made as to which test is to be taken and a user touches the screen of the client device 30 according to register this selection in test file selection step 114 and thereafter proceeds to view video initiation step 116 where a video associated with the selected test is started.

[0062] A user is then presented with a 2D image in image hazard selection step 118 where the user identifies hazards by touching the display of the client device 30. Where the client device 30 does not include a touch screen, the hazards are identified using a cursor and cursor control device such as a mouse, light pen, trackball, touchpad or otherwise. Hazards and other features in the image are set as hotspots.

[0063] A user then moves through a number of frames that display image files, audio files and video files for identification of further hazards in additional frames step 120.

[0064] A user returns to the image and it is either confirmed that they have identified all hazards or have used all allocated attempts at identifying hazards in selection confirmation step 122. If it is identified that the user has not identified all hazards and they have not used all allocated attempts the user is returned to the picture to identify and select any remaining hazards at further hazard selection step 126. In hazard selection step 126 the user is also directed to select a control to control the hazard detected.

[0065] In step 132 the system verifies that the user has selected a control. In a preferred embodiment, the user is directed to select 3 controls from 6 options. The application 131 then compares and illustrates to the user the user’s selected 3 controls against the controls stored in the application 131 as correct.

[0066] In step 134, the user is directed to select which of the controls the user has nominated is the critical control, the control that best controls the identified hazard. In step 136, the user’s selection is queried to identify if the selected critical control is the same as the critical control nominated as correct by the system.

[0067] If the user has selected the critical control that corresponds to the critical control identified in the system the user is directed back to additional frames step 120 to review and test on additional images. If the user has nominated a critical control different to the critical control identified in the system, the user is directed to critical identification step 138 where the critical control identified by the system is revealed to the user. The user is then directed back to additional frame step 120 and selection confirmation step 122 to confirm that all hazards have been identified or the user has run out of allowed attempts.

[0068] If the system is satisfied that all hazards have been identified in selection confirmation step 122 or a user has used all the available ‘tries’ to find the hazards within the image then the system provides the user with data working through the hazards the user failed to identify and interacts with the hidden hazards in the test in hidden hazard step 124.

[0069] The system reviews the user’s inputs and determines whether or not a user has completed the hidden hazard scenarios in the test in hidden evaluation step 128. If all the hidden hazards have not been explored a user is directed to work through the remaining hidden hazard scenarios via the image at hazard selection step 118. Once all hidden hazards have been worked through a user moves to system ordering step 130 where the user is prompted to place all hazards in their correct order of priority.

[0070] A determination is made in priority evaluation step 146 as to whether or not the hazards are correctly prioritized. If so, the user is directed to priority explanation step 144 where the user listens to an audio recording explaining the correct priority order. If the user is assessed as not correctly ordering the priority of hazards in priority evaluation step 146 the user is directed to correct priority recitation step 148 where the priorities assigned to the hazards by the system are revealed. From priority recitation step 148 the user is directed to priority explanation step 144. From priority explanation step 144, the user is directed to review step 142 signifying the end of the test where a final score is displayed.

[0071] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the games available in the Interactive Safety Induction application. This may include a pre-employment safety assessment 150 including pre-employment assessment games 152. It may also include an interactive safety induction 154 with a variety of games associated with it. The games may include a working together game 156, a mobile plant game 158, a working with hand tools game 160, a manual handling game 162, a working at heights game 164, a working in confined spaces game 166, a working with chemicals game 168 or a general hazards game 170. The skilled addressee will recognise that these games are exemplary and that additional games may be included related to safety induction.

[0072] Figure 8 is a flowchart of steps involved in the Supervision/Leadership training and assessment process.

[0073] A user logs onto the software application 31 for a test session in log on step 172. At this step the user selects a language that they wish to use to complete the test.

[0074] The user listens to an audio soundtrack which is prompted at various junctions of the application as required, in log in step 172. A user can refer to a ‘Units of Competency’ screen associated with the test by tapping on a button on the screen.

[0075] In description step 174, a user is provided with a description pane describing several types of situational leadership styles. In the illustrated example four situational leadership styles are shown. The skilled addressee will recognise that alternate numbers of situational leadership styles are within the scope of this invention.

[0076] The user then, in photo scenario step 176, is presented with an image depicting an interaction between a worker new to a task and the Supervisor.

[0077] The user then moves to video step 178 where they view a video scenario that depicts the worker new to the task and the Supervisor acting out their interaction according to the situational leadership styles.

[0078] In leadership identification step 180, the user selects on the screen with a tap or a cursor from a list of options the positive and negative aspects of each leadership style in this interaction.

[0079] In choice step 182, the user is asked to select the leadership style that they would choose as the most appropriate.

[0080] In correction step 184, the correct leadership style is provided with an audio explanation of why this is the correct result.

[0081] A determination is made in completion query step 186 as to whether all the scenarios in the game have been completed. If not then a user returns to step photo scenario step 176 and continues to work through the test. If so, the user progresses to finish step 188, in which the test is complete and a final score is displayed.

[0082] A second embodiment of a system for training and assessing workplace safety is within the scope of the present invention. Figures 19, 20 and 21 illustrate screenshots from the second embodiment. The second embodiment is similar in how it operates to the first embodiment. The difference between the first embodiment and the second embodiment lies in the user being presented with a 3D or 360/180 degree panoramic image of the workplace rather than a 2D image in image hazard selection step 118 where the user identifies hazards by touching the display of the client device 30.

[0083] To capture the 3D/panoramic image for use in image hazard selection step 118, a panoramic camera is used to capture one or more images to record all visual features of a site around 360degrees in the horizontal. Images are also captured across 360 degrees around the z axis to capture and records the visual features around 360 degrees in the vertical. Having both these axis captures provides images captured in 4π steradians.

[0084] The panoramic camera used to capture these images can capture the images using a rotating tripod head, segmented photography, a catadioptric camera, 3D image capture or otherwise as would be understood by the skilled addressee.

[0085] With the 3D/panoramic images captures, the images are fed into software that generates a cube representing the workplace. On each face of the cube images captured using the panoramic camera are overlayed on the six faces of the cube. With the images overlayed on the six faces hazards and other features are designated as hotspots for recognition within the application and given coordinates.

[0086] The images overlaid on the six faces of the cube and the hotspot coordinates are uploaded into the Tap into Safety application through a Content Management System and stored in the database of the Tap into Safety application.

[0087] With the images stored in the database, the Tap Into Safety application uses the cubic representation of the images to display images of all 4π steradians of the three dimensional environment.

[0088] As a screen a user will be using is only three dimension a user can navigate through the three dimensional image by directing the image displayed on the screen to move to adjoining images. This can be done through dragging, icons, buttons or otherwise as understood by the skilled addressee.

[0089] Where the workplace includes adjoining areas/rooms, interfaces between the areas or rooms, such as doors, can be used to allow the user to transition between areas. When presented by the application the interface can act as a button that progresses the display of the workplace to the next area/room. Alternatively arrows or other transition representations can be used to move from one area/room to the next.

[0090] The hazards or hotspots of the application can be presented in the images of the 360/180 degree/panoramic image using augmented reality. This allows hazards to be altered, such as enlarged or reduced to assist with learning. This also allows other features, such as additional machinery, workers, tools, hazards etc., to be inserted into the image for teaching purposes.

[0091] Where a 3D camera has been used, the environment can be presented in a virtual reality setting.

[0092] Although the second embodiment has been described as capturing images of all 4π steradians of the three dimensional environment, it will be understood that only one axis and 360/180 degree capture can also be used and be within the scope of the second embodiment.

Example [0093] The following narrative describes in more general terms certain aspects of use of the software application 31, and in particular participation in playing the Interactive Safety Induction game. The following is an example of the use of the Tap into Safety application and should not be read as limiting the invention to that of the example. 1. Click on the Tap into Safety icon on the tablet by touching. Wait for the product to load. A splash screen appears with the Tap into Safety logo. Preferably, these appear on an orange and navy patterned background. 2. A statement appears at the top of the screen that states “The material and all filming and imagery used in this application has been conducted in a controlled environment and it has been staged in a safe way without compromising the safety of any person. By continuing to use this application, you agree to apply to its Terms of Use”. 3. On this screen there is a speaker icon with the label “Tap to hear” that shows that when you see this icon throughout the game that there is an audio file attached to allow the user to listen rather than simply ready the content. 4. There is a synchronising button that once tapped sends the completed test information to the Cloud to be stored and downloaded in the database. 5. There is a button that once tapped moves to a screen that displays the list of Australian Quality Framework competencies that the content aligns to as specified for each industry sector. A statement reads “Playing Tap into Safety Interactive Safety Induction can contribute to the following units of competency”. 6. There is a language button from which the user can choose the language to both read and listen to throughout the game. 7. There is a Rules button that once touched takes the user to an instruction pane. This screen is entitled “HELP”. This screen has three pictures to show how to play the game supported by audio files that can be selected to hear the instructions. There are three descriptive paragraphs that describe the need to touch on the area in the image where the user thinks there might be a workplace hazard. To exit the Help screen the user selects the “X” at the top right hand corner of the screen. 8. The user logs into the tool by typing in their first name, last name and password. As the user taps into the space for their user ID a keyboard appears to allow them to type in this information and the password. Once entered the use taps the ENTER button to begin playing the games. 9. On this screen there is a space for a company logo. 10. There is a “Test History” button. The user touches this button to view all past results that they have achieved in playing the games in the past. To return to the games screen they touch on the same button. 11. There is a log out button that when touched takes the user back to screen 2 where the user can log back in or exit the tool. 12. This screen displays the selection of games available to play. There are at least four games that are individually numbered appearing as a grid to select from. The user touches on a game they wish to play. 13. The user can select the Back Button and return to Screen 3 to select an alternative game or the user can select “Start” and proceed to playing this game. 14. This screen displays a video scenario of a work area. There is a play button and a pause button at the bottom of the screen. The user can select the Back Button to proceed to start the game. 15. This screen displays an information button that proceeds to a photographic display to describe the requirements of the user playing the game. An audio track plays the text. This button is not limited in the content it displays or the content of the audio track. 16. This screen displays a 2D or panoramic photographic scenario of a work area. The user is advised that there are 6 hazards in the 2D scenario and 10 hazards in the panoramic scenario and that there is a limit of 5 missed attempts to find all of the hazards in each image. 17. Once a hazard is selected the test shows the number of attempts the user has left as they move through the image selecting the hazard. The user touches the iPad screen or clicks on the computer screen and finds the first hazard. The identified hazard appears as a green translucent area on the image containing a tick mark in the area. No other hazards can be located in this defined area. A description text describes the hazard. An orange audio button sits alongside so that the user can listen to the description text. 18. The user is then taken through a series of supporting training materials that teach the procedures to address the hazard including, but not limited to, images, audio files, short instructional videos, job hazard analyses, safety data sheets and written procedures. 19. Once the user has worked through this material the user is asked to select the correct control measures to address the hazard, usually three out of a possible six ways of dealing with the hazard. The user is asked to choose three written options from six written options that are supported by audio files. The user selects an answer by tapping on the circle situated next to the control option. The circle becomes an orange solid colour as the selected answer. The user can change their mind by selecting an alternative number and the original will go back to the way it was before it was selected. Once a selection is made the user taps on the CONFIRM button. The user is then notified as to whether they have made a correct selection. If yes, they see a green and white tick next to their answer, if no then they see a red and white cross. The user selects CONTINUE. 20. The user is then asked to nominate the most critical control from the three correct control measures. Once a selection is made the user taps on the CONFIRM button. The user is then notified as to whether they have made a correct selection. If yes, they see a green and white tick next to their answer, if no then they see a red and white cross. The correct answer is then shown with a tick next to it. 21. The user continues to identify the other hazards in the image in the same manner. If the user touches and area where there is not a hazard present, a notification appears that states “Hazard Not Found” and the number of attempts left are noted. A red cross appears on the image to show that there are no hazards in this section of the image. 22. The number of hazards found is shown in a running total at the top of the screen. 23. The number of attempts remaining to find the hazards are shown as orange coloured icons, and a running score for the number of correctly identified hazards. 24. The user can use the zoom function through the magnifying glass symbol to enhance the photographic scene and return to the original image size by touching this icon a second time. 25. The user can touch the help icon depicted as an orange question mark in a white circle to move back to the instructions on how to play the game. 26. Once all hazards are selected in the scene or the user runs out of attempts to find them in the image the user is taken through any hazards they may have missed, including items 16-18 and then the screen moves onto the next part of the game. 27. The user moves to the Hidden Hazards part of the game that presents eight hidden hazards that could be linked to the photographic scenario. The user is asked to choose four hidden hazard options from eight hazard options that are supported by audio files. The user selects an answer by tapping on the circle sitting alongside the hidden hazard options. The circle becomes an orange solid colour as the selected answer. The user can change their mind by selecting an alternative number and the original will go back to the way it was before it was selected. Once a selection is made the user taps on the CONFIRM button. The user is then notified as to whether they have made a correct selection. If yes, they see a green and white tick next to their answer, if no then they see a red and white cross. The user selects CONTINUE. 28. The user is then taken through a series of supporting training materials that teach the procedures to address the 4 hidden hazards individually, including, but not limited to, images, audio files, short instructional videos, job hazard analyses, safety data sheets and written procedures. 29. Once the user has worked through this material the user is asked to select the correct control measures to address the hazard, usually three out of a possible six ways of dealing with the hazard. The user is asked to choose three written options from six written options that are supported by audio files. The user selects an answer by tapping on the circle sitting alongside each control option. The circle becomes an orange solid colour as the selected answer. The user can change their mind by selecting an alternative number and the original will go back to the way it was before it was selected. Once a selection is made the user taps on the CONFIRM button. The user is then notified as to whether they have made a correct selection. If yes, they see a green and white tick next to their answer, if no then they see a red and white cross. The user selects CONTINUE. 30. The user is then asked to nominate the most critical control from the control measures. Once a selection is made the user taps on the CONFIRM button. The user is then notified as to whether they have made a correct selection. If yes, they see a green and white tick next to their answer, if no then they see a red and white cross. The correct answer is then shown in with a tick next to it. 31. The user continues to work through the remaining hidden hazards in the image in the same manner until all four hazards have been completed. The user selects CONTINUE to move to the final part of the game. 32. This screen displays all of the HAZARDS FOUND. On each of the listed hazards there is audio support describing the hazard. 33. The user is instructed to drag each hazard and drop into the table in the order that the user would deal with them in terms of the most to least hazardous. The user can move hazards around in this pane until they are happy with their selections. The user can also move the hazards up and down using arrow icons. 34. Once all hazards are selected and ranked in the order that the user is happy with they touch on the SUBMIT button at the bottom of the screen. 35. The user is then shown the correct ranking order for the top 4 hazards together with an audio file explaining why they are ranked in the top 4. 36. The user touches the CONTINUE button at the bottom of the screen and moves to the FINAL RESULTS screen. This screen shows the number of hazards identified, the number of controls selected, the number of correct critical controls selected and the number of hazards that were ranked in the correct order. The user exits from this screen by touching the FINISH button. The user returns to Screen 3 (Item 14) to select another game or Log Out.

[0094] Figures 9 to 18 present various example user interface screenshots of the client device 30, as relate to the use of the Tap into Safety application by a user.

[0095] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a screenshot if pictures shown for hazard selection step 118. Figure 9 depicts a screen which presents to the user a site image of a hazardous scene by way of a photographic image. A running score 191 across the top of the image indicates that presently 2 hazards of 6 hazards implicit in the image have been identified. A progress bar 194 also indicates that the user has 2 attempts at hazard identification remaining depicted by two empty circles. The hazards identified appear as tick symbols 192 on the image, the failed attempts appear as crosses 190 on the image.

[0096] Figure 10 depicts a screen which presents to the user a site image of a hazardous scene by way of a photographic image. A dialog box 196 is provided in relation to one particular identified hazard. The hazard is annotated as Torn Harness’, with an accompanying audio recording 198. A running score 191 at the top of the image indicates that presently 3 hazards of 6 hazards implicit in the image have been identified. A progress bar 194 with white circles and white crosses also indicates that the user has 4 attempts at hazard identification remaining.

[0097] Figure 11 is a screenshot presented at hazard selection step 126 which presents the user with a number of controls to address the hazard and the user is asked ‘How would you control this hazard?’ the user is asked to select 3 controls. A written description of the hazard is provided supported by an audio track. The user is asked to tap or select with a cursor on the circles 200 next to the controls to make their selection. Each control has a written description and a supporting audio track. Once the selection is made the user taps on SUBMIT to continue.

[0098] Figure 12 depicts a selection of controls made by the user and the circles are displayed as coloured solid objects.

[0099] Figure 13 provides the results of the correctly selected critical control. The screen indicates that 1 of 3 critical controls were identified by the user. The screen indicates which particular controls were identified, and which were not. The identified critical control was ‘Check barrel contents’. Unidentified critical controls were: ‘Check for labels on barrel and if none are found, correctly label barrel contents’, and ‘Secure barrel with safety clips’. An audio commentary is available to provide an accompanying explanation of each control.

[00100] Figure 14 illustrates a screenshot provided at critical identification step 138. The correct answer is shown along with an explanation of the answer in the language of choice.

[00101] Figure 15 provides an example of an additional teaching document about personal protective equipment (PPE). The user can either touch the button marked ‘back’ to return to the last screen with additional teaching content or tap on the CONTINUE button to continue to the next screen to select the controls.

[00102] Figure 16 illustrates a screen presented at hidden evaluation step 128. Here the user is presented with 8 options for hidden hazards that could apply to the scenario associated with the image the user has been observing—4 of the 8 presented options actually apply to the presented scenario and the user is directed to select these options. The user is able to return to the image or submit their answers. The skilled addressee will recognise that an alternate number of options could be presented to the user than 8 and that an alternate number of options that actually apply to the presented scenario could be presented.

[00103] Figure 17 displays a screen presented at system ordering step 130. A list of all the hazards found within the game in a pane on the left hand side of the screen. Each hazard has a written description that is supported by an audio file. The user is asked to drag the hazards to the top of the screen in the order from most to least hazardous.

[00104] The user indicates the rank of each hazard by dragging each hazard into a placeholder in order of priority. The user can move the hazards around within that pane until they are happy with the order by dragging and dropping on the screen or using the arrows to move the selections up and down. Once they are happy with their selection they tap on SUBMIT.

[00105] Figure 18 is a screen presented at critical identification step 138 that shows the top four hazards from the ranking order selections made in Figure 17 accompanied by an audio explanation as to why these four hazards are the most important. The user taps on the CONTINUE button to view a final score for the game.

[00106] Referring to Figures 19, 20 and 21, screen shots 150 presented in the 360/180 degree/panoramic embodiment of the second embodiment are illustrated. A user is able to pan horizontally using panning buttons 142. A user can move horizontally to show features out of screen and not show features in the screen with horizontal skip buttons 144. A user can move vertically to show features out of screen and not show features in the screen with vertical skip buttons 146. A user can zoom in and out with the zoom buttons 148 and can make the screen interaction full screen with expand button 150.

Alterations and Modifications to the Embodiments [00107] Various additions, modifications and substitutions regarding design and construction can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[00108] Modifications and variations such as would be apparent to the skilled addressee are considered to fall within the scope of the present invention. The present invention is not to be limited in scope by any of the specific embodiments described herein. These embodiments are intended for the purpose of exemplification only. Functionally equivalent products, formulations and methods are clearly within the scope of the invention as described herein.

[00109] Reference to positional descriptions, such as lower and upper, are to be taken in context of the embodiments depicted in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the invention to the literal interpretation of the term but rather as would be understood by the skilled addressee.

[00110] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise”or variations such as “comprises”or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

Claims (5)

1. CLAIMS:

   1. A system for training and assessing workplace health and safety to one or more users, comprising: one or more client devices in communication with a server and featuring a display; wherein the system is adapted to execute an application on the client device; and wherein the application is adapted to perform the steps of: loading in memory an information button that links to a display that describes the requirements of the application; loading in memory of the client device from a data store at least one video; loading in memory of the client device from a data store a plurality of images depicting one or more hazards in a scene; wherein the plurality of images represent the surfaces over 4π steradians of a three dimensional environment; presenting the plurality of images via the display of the client device and receiving, as input from the user, the user’s identification or non-identification of one or more of the hazards; maintaining in memory of the client device a record of results of hazards correctly and incorrectly identified by the user; and receiving from the user the user’s an indication of one or more remedial actions to be taken to control the hazards.
2. 2. The system according to Claim 1, wherein the system receives from the user at least a partial ranking, in order of priority, of the hazards.
3. 3. The system as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, further comprising a server operatively in communication with the client device via a communications medium, wherein the server can be accessed by an electronic database to perform at least one of: add content to the application; add modules to the application; access to individual user reports; access to overall reports aggregated across user; export results; or manage users’ profiles.
4. 4. The system as claimed ion any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application further performs a step of displaying to the user an indication of which hazards, controls, critical controls or ranking were and were not correctly identified.
5. 5. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application provides additional teaching materials to support the management of the hazards in the images.