Mining Publication: BG 4 Benching Training Software

• Closed circuit breathing apparatus
• Individual training
• Self contained breathing apparatus

Researchers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have been conducting research aimed at assessing the utility of virtual environments for teaching critical mine emergency response skills. As part of this, researchers developed the Draeger BG 4 Benching Trainer software. The software allows mine rescue benchmen and other team members to inspect, assemble and test a BG 4 mine rescue breathing apparatus in a virtual environment. The software is ideal for benchmen and other mine rescue team members to use to mentally practice benching the apparatus during or between regular training sessions. Mine rescue instructors can also use the BG 4 Benching Trainer software as a supplemental method to introduce new team members to the apparatus, and to provide targeted training to team members who may have difficulty with one or more segments of the BG 4 benching process.