Case Study: National Ambulance Service Strengthening Driver Training Through Hazard Prediction
The Challenge
All new entrants to NAS are trained to the Emergency Services Driving Standard (ESDS), overseen by the Road Safety Authority in Ireland. This includes a three week practical course, preceded by an online module based on Roadcraft and the System of Car Control.
While this training prepares students for operational roles, NAS identified the importance of strengthening the human factors underpinning safe emergency response driving, particularly observation, forward planning and hazard anticipation.
“We wanted to address the human factors that can contribute to Collision risk. We were recommended to try a hazard prediction resource in place of a hazard perception one.”
The Approach
Following research and consultation with subject matter experts, NAS introduced EsituDrive’s hazard prediction resource on a trial basis in 2025.
The aim was to enhance training by providing a more objective, behaviour based method of assessing how drivers anticipate and respond to developing hazards.
To date, 150 trainees have successfully completed the training.
“Initially the intention was to introduce some form of hazard perception training, but having researched the topic and consulted with subject matter experts, we reached out to Esitu Solutions.”
Implementation
The hazard prediction resource was integrated into the ESDS training programme, initially focusing on Category C1 and motorcycle training.
The system provides trainees with realistic driving scenarios that require them to anticipate what will happen next, supporting the development of forward planning and situational awareness.
“At the moment we are trialing the product for Category c1 and motorcycles, and with a few exceptions, it appears to correlate with the students on the road hazard prediction skills.”
Outcomes and Impact
Enhanced identification of development needs
The resource has enabled instructors to identify trainees who would benefit from additional support.
“The training has assisted in identifying those learners that could benefit from additional development in fine tuning their observation and forward planning, and these learners have been provided with additional assistance.”
Accelerated development of key driving skills
Hazard prediction training supports the development of skills that traditionally take years of on road experience to acquire.
“While it has been estimated that it can take many years of driving experience to develop observation and forward planning skills, training such as that provided by this resource has been shown to assist in this process.”
Positive feedback from trainees and instructors
Both students and instructors have responded well to the introduction of the resource.
“The feedback from the students and the instructors , has been positive, and this resource has added another layer of objectivity in assessing the students progress.”
Improved learning through feedback
The system allows trainees to learn directly from their decisions, reinforcing effective hazard anticipation.
“The resource allows the students to learn from their mistakes and to lift their vision.”
Support and Delivery
The NAS highlighted the level of support provided throughout the trial.
“Online support when using the resource has been impeccable to date, with Vikki always available at the end of an email or phone call.”
Practical Considerations
The trial also provided useful insights into deployment:
Larger screens, 27” or above, improve immersion and usability.
A short orientation or practice session can help students understand the task before assessment.
“Recommendations for any one using this resource, would be to use a screen size of 27” or larger, for a more immersive experience.”
Future Development
NAS is already exploring how the approach can be extended further, including additional behavioural scenarios and VR based delivery.
“In conclusion, our experience with the resource to date has been positive and the next step being contemplated, would be to trial the VR module, with a suitable cohort of students.”
Summary
By integrating hazard prediction into its training programme, the National Ambulance Service has strengthened its approach to developing safe, effective emergency response drivers. The resource has added objectivity, supported targeted development, and enhanced the focus on the human factors that underpin collision risk.
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