Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 21, 2025
A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills
Published on: February 13, 2020
Proficiency based progression simulation training significantly reduces utility strikes; A prospective, randomized
Anthony G Gallagher1, Martin Hart2, David Cleary3
1Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Magee Campus, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.
Objectives:
We evaluated a simulation-based training curriculum with quantitatively defined performance benchmarks for utility workers location and excavation of utility services.
Background:
Damaging buried utilities is associated with considerable safety risks to workers and substantial cost to employers.
Methods:
In a prospective, randomized and blinded study we assessed the impact of Proficiency Based Progression (PBP) simulation training on the location and excavation of utility services work.
Results:
PBP simulation training reduced performance errors (33%, p = 0.006) in comparison a standard trained group. When implemented across all workers in the same division there was a 35-61% reduction in utility strikes (p = 0.028) and an estimated cost saving of £116,000 -£2,175,000 in the 12 months (47,000 work hours) studied.
Conclusions:
The magnitude of the training benefit of PBP simulation training in the utilities sector appears to be the same as it is in surgery, cardiology and procedure-based medicine.
Application:
Quality-assured utility worker simulation training significantly reduces utility damage and associated costs.
