The main objective of the project was to develop an innovative and interactive training approach for workers in the construction sector. This was driven by the high-risk nature of the sector and the challenges associated with a multicultural workforce, where many workers face language barriers and limited access to effective safety training. The specific objectives included: Creating and implementing a cutting-edge training course, utilizing a serious video game and a comprehensive toolkit designed for both workers and trainers in the construction sector. Developing a model of best practices to promote innovation in safety training, applicable at local and European levels. Generating long-term positive impacts on participating organizations and the education and vocational training sector. The main results of the project were: A manual outlining EU safety standards; A serious video game for immersive training and knowledge assessment; A toolkit comprising a video tutorial, a user manual for the video game, and PowerPoint presentations to facilitate knowledge transfer.
We decided to participate in this project to address an urgent need: improving safety training in construction sites, a high-risk sector characterized by a significant number of accidents and increasing challenges in communication and training, especially with the growing presence of foreign workers. In 2019, over one-fifth (22.2%) of all fatal workplace accidents in the EU occurred in the construction sector (Eurostat). These numbers emphasize the importance of effective and engaging training. However, capturing workers’ attention and keeping them motivated during training is a challenge, especially when it comes to workplace safety. Our project is based on the concepts of gamification and playful learning, which transform training into an active and participatory experience.By utilizing an immersive video game and an innovative toolkit, we aim to simulate on-site training, enhancing skill acquisition and participant engagement. We believe that every effort to reduce accidents in the construction sector is a necenecessary step toward a safer and more inclusive work environment.