Can immersive technology over traditional photography greater influence the number of hazards identified in a healthcare sector residential facility, and as a result influence the perception of risk

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore whether Virtual Reality (VR) can support hazard identification training in a healthcare residential facility and whether VR evokes a sense of presence and as a result increase perceived risk. This was done by comparing the same scene in a residential facility in two different formats, a 360 photograph through a VR headset and regular photographs. A comparative experiment was conducted with thirty Social Care Workers and Nurses the results of which show that VR can create a sense of realism in an alternate environment and can significantly support healthcare workers in identifying hazards, however, it does not increase the perception of risk. This experiment instigates literature in an area, where healthcare workers support people to take risks and live more fulfilling and independent lives.