Ask Ron Besuijen
We ask Ron:
What are some key components of maintaining a successful simulator training program?
Ron's Response:
Unfortunately, far too many simulators have become dust collectors after their initial installation. They may have been developed for the initial startup of a facility and then forgotten about. There are several ways to prevent this from happening.
The first is to have a dedicated trainer. They will be responsible for training the panel operators. This will include developing training scenarios and setting up a training schedule or a scheduling tool. A seasoned panel operator is the best fit for this position. The trainer will also be responsible for documenting problems that require maintenance and scheduling the appropriate people to complete the maintenance.
Maintenance of the simulator is an important factor to ensure the training is relevant. The simulator requires the same update whenever there is an update in the facility. One of the best ways to keep the simulator updated is when there is a project in the unit, the update to the simulator will be paid for by the project. This eliminates the need to justify another project to update the simulator. The control system specialists will also be required to install software updates and maintain the simulator hardware. It takes a team to maintain a simulator.
I recommend having access to the simulator’s engineering interface to allow small fixes to the model and to enable small tuning of the simulator. This is an ongoing process and enables minor changes to be managed promptly. Some training from the simulator supplier will be required. Remember to always save a backup of the model before making changes.
Leadership support is another crucial element for a simulator program. Leadership will approve the budget and make time available for the panel operators to attend their training. There are scheduling and financial aspects of this. It will take regular reminders of the benefits of the simulator program. Create a point form of the program benefits to share with executive leadership when they tour the facility.
A simulator program requires support from several disciplines and a dedicated trainer who will be the champion of the program.