Virtual reality stunning training tool
Did you know? Virtual reality technology has been shown to speed up and improve skill acquisition, and a training tool is being developed to teach stunning techniques in countries importing Australian cattle.
| Project start date: | 01 October 2022 |
| Project end date: | 01 February 2023 |
| Publication date: | 10 January 2023 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Relevant regions: | National |
Summary
Effective and ongoing training are important to ensure that animal welfare standards are maintained during the slaughter of livestock shipped overseas. This is a key component of the Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS).
Small abattoirs which only put through a few animals each day can pose a challenge when it comes to providing opportunities for new slaughtermen to get training and practice proper stunning techniques.
To help address this, a highly engaging and realistic virtual environment was developed for use in training.
The virtual reality (VR) tool will support workers to gain confidence and allow trainers to assess their competency before exposure to live animals, to ensure optimal welfare outcomes. It will also allow for repetitive practicing of technique.
This project was managed by the Livestock Export RD&E Program, a collaboration between LiveCorp and Meat & Livestock Australia.
Objectives
The objectives of this project are to:
• Create a highly engaging and realistic cattle stunning training resource for in-market abattoir personnel.
• Improve the accuracy of stunning for in-market abattoir personnel.
• Capture potential improvements to enhance future training across different markets.
Benefits to industry
The implementation and adoption of VR-based training will improve the training environment and ultimately encourage the improvement of animal health and welfare practices in market. It will also support the maintenance of high levels of compliance with ESCAS and its requirements for the humane slaughter of livestock.
Future research
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For more information Primary researcher: Virtually There Training Contact Project Manager: Nick Baker |
