The Impact of Simulation Training at ArcelorMittal Gent

How Simulation Training Is Revolutionizing Crane Operations

In the world of crane operations, safety takes precedence. With the introduction of simulators, the way crane operators are trained has undergone a transformative change. Ilyusha Sierens, a trainer in the Cold Rolling Mill at ArcelorMittal Gent, highlights how simulation training and the use of Steel Sim VR Premium Simulator, enhances both the safety and the learning experience of future operators.

“The greatest strength of the simulator is that it allows for mistakes.” – Ilysha Sierens

Simulation training has not only reduced training time and risks, but also improved operator confidence and precision. It allows trainees to make real mistakes — safely — and build real skills before setting foot in the production hall. In this article we highlighted the results ArcelorMittal Gent achieved with the Steel Sim VR training simulator. In the full customer story, which you can request at the bottom of this page, we delve deeper into the impact of this technology on the training process and the results after one year of implementation.

Ilyusha Sierens during training sessions with new crane operators at the facility in Gent.

The Impact of Simulation Training

The data clearly demonstrates that incorporating simulation training into crane operator education offers numerous benefits across safety, training time, human resources, and cost. One of the biggest advantages of simulation training is that it provides a safe environment for learning. Simulation training often includes special exercises to teach safety. The simulator Sierens uses, for example, has ten exercises that train operators to handle emergencies. Sierens highlights this benefit: “These exercises focus on dealing with emergencies and staying safe,” says Sierens. The main goal is to help crane operators stay alert and aware of possible dangers at all times.

25% decrease of live equipment usage

The number of days trainees spend in the production environment during their training has decreased by 25%, allowing them to become operational faster and reducing the use of “live” equipment.

30% decrease in coil pick-ups

The number of physical coil pick-ups during training has been reduced by 30%, further minimizing wear and the risk of incidents.

Curious about cost savings and damage reduction?

Request the whitepaper and get full insights.

Read the full story, including insights into scenario-based training, its impact on motivation, and the role of objective performance measurement? Request the full customer story and discover how simulation training is shaping the future of crane operator education, and access all results in cost savings and damage reduction at the bottom of the page.

Cabin view footage, shot through Varjo XR-4

The Future of Crane Training

The impact of simulators on crane operator training is clear. Safety, efficiency, and trainee engagement have all significantly improved. For Sierens, it’s hard to imagine how training could function without this technology. Simulators offer a safe, flexible, and effective way to train operators, ultimately producing confident professionals ready to tackle real-world challenges.

In summary, simulation training has helped crane operators enhance their skills in a safe, controlled environment. This has not only led to safer workplaces but also to a more streamlined and efficient training process.

Stills from the Steel Sim VR simulator

Curious about how simulation is transforming crane operator training?

Request the customer story about the Cold Rolling Mill at ArcelorMittal Gent: “The Impact of Simulation Training on the Safety and Effectiveness of Crane Operators” and discover how safety, efficiency, and engagement are reaching new standards through the Steel Sim VR training simulator. In a conversation with Ilyusha Sierens from the Cold Rolling Mill, we explore the real-world results after one year of implementing the Steel Sim VR premium simulator. From reduced damage and shorter training times to measurable performance improvements—this story highlights how simulation training is setting a new standard in crane operator education.

Including: