The Balfour Beatty Vinci JV is developing the online training tool with BIM and digital twin specialist 3D Repo and 4D consultancy Freeform.

Funding has been provided by Innovate UK for the new tool to replace generic training videos and presentations with live walkthroughs of site-specific 4D visualisations based on existing BIM models.

Dr Jozef Dobos, CEO at 3D Repo said: “Inductions and onboarding in UK construction are usually delivered using generic PowerPoint slides, pre-recorded videos and printed questionnaires.

“Our new training solution will enable site personnel to quickly and easily generate engaging site-specific induction materials that are easy to comprehend and therefore reduce accidents and near-misses through better quality training.”

Dan Fawcett, Head of Innovation & Transformation at Balfour Beatty Vinci said: “Our number one priority is to be ‘Be Safe and Well’ when constructing HS2, and BBV’s work on 4D Constructability Reviews with 3D Repo to date is a great example of innovating to improve health and safety.

“Introducing further collaboration with Freeform and HSE to build on this work is yet another step forward in ensuring no injury, ill health or incident is caused by our work activities.”

James Bowles, Founder of Freeform, added: “4D models use graphical and non-graphical project information including time, resource, and logistics management to create more predictable, robust plans and sequences.

“With 3D Repo, we are developing a novel online tool which allows for simple planning and visualisation of intricate tasks to improve health and safety not only on HS2, but for the entire construction industry.”