This presentation addresses innovative simulation technology used to increase effectiveness of radiation training in the nuclear power industry. For more, go to www.gses.com and follow GSE on Twitter @GSESystemsInc.

1. VIZRADTM – Evolving Simulation in
Radiation Training
info@gses.com

2. 2
Introduction
• Enhancement of the practical experience for trainees and
instructors
• Optimizing results-based training
• Simulation presented in various forms for decades
• Hands-on training raises preparedness and the manner in
which performance and safety are measured.

3. 3
Background
In the nuclear power industry:
• Use of simulation in training began in earnest following the accident
at Three Mile Island.
• Started with initial licensing and continuing training for licensed
control room staffs
• Then moved into the realm of radiation protection training using live
sources with actual meters (still used today)
• Use of emulators - modified radiation detection equipment sensitive
to very small levels of radiation but represented as larger levels
• Then…use of chemicals, ultra sound magnetics and radio frequency
(RF)

4. 4
Approval
Several roadblocks:
• Capital
• Change
• Physical concerns in implementation
• Being “first on the block.”
• “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

5. 5
Acceptance
Regulatory acceptance
• Expectations
• High level of hands-on activities
• Support job task analysis
Workforce acceptance
• These aren’t real meters
• How much more hands on training?
• Evaluation method

6. 6
Acceptance
Through peer review, formal and informal meetings
and sheer bravery, we learned that training
departments desire:
• An un-coached learning environment
• High levels of hands-on training
• No prompting through visual or written cues
• Provide positive feedback on results and
techniques

7. 7
Area Survey Detection
• Simulate area surveys using microwave, ultra sound
and RF
• Indoor positioning systems in a pre-established
location
• Remote control allows for indoor and outdoor
capabilities
Dose Simulation
• Estimated based on scenario
• Remote control provides for realistic results
• Includes dose and dose rate alarms

8. 8
Contamination Detection
Early training used:
• Chemical sprays
• Fluorescent materials
• Powders and black lights
• Remote control
– Indoors/outdoors
– Personnel
– Equipment
– Vehicles

9. 9
What Is VIZRADTM?
VIZRADTM is a combination of:
• Interactive 3D visualization and simulation
• Hardware simulation
• Location sensing (to the centimeter level)

10. 10
What Does VIZRADTM Do?
VIZRADTM permits:
 Virtual radiation situations with responsive meters
 An interactive radiation detection training experience
 Real-time corrective guidance to trainee actions
 Hands-free, scenario based instructor operation
 Training and evaluation modes with historical playback

11. 11
Benefits of VIZRADTM
• Capture and safeguard “best practice” knowledge
• Boost efficiency by improving time to training competency,
retention and performance levels
• Immerse trainees in interactive training simulations
• Permits trainees to drill and practice routine functions
• Train and perform job tasks, infrequently performed tasks
• Job performance evaluations, dynamic learning activities
• Provides training with positive feedback
• Provide the trainee with immediate, objective and
quantifiable feedback

12. 12
Conclusion
With an aging workforce in the nuclear industry
being replaced by a younger population, it is
imperative to provide simulation in a manner in
which trainees are comfortable and knowledgeable.
This will allow for the capture of tribal knowledge
and a workforce ready to assume their positions.

13. For more information:
Go to: www.GSES.com
Call: +1 800.638.7912
Email: info@gses.com
Follow us on:
Twitter @GSESystems
Facebook.com/GSESystems