ASTM's Role in Standards Development: Supporting Amusement Ride Safety

The world’s leading amusement ride standards are created and updated using the ASTM International consensus process, which gives all participants an equal voice. More than 20 active voluntary standards in this area help enhance the safety of rides and related devices.

About 900 ASTM International members from close to 30 countries are part of Committee F24 on Amusement Rides and Devices. This includes manufacturers, engineers, designers, technicians, park owners and operators, regulators, inspectors, biodynamic experts, industry association representatives, consumer advocates, and others.

The committee’s subcommittees maintain standards that address areas such as design, manufacturing, terminology, maintenance, inspection, operations, special attractions (e.g., bumper boats, go-karts), adventure attractions (e.g., ziplines, trampoline parks, inflatables, etc.), and water-related rides.

Due to the expertise that this committee has attracted over many years, ASTM standards in this area are broadly recognized for their high quality. Examples of key standards include:

• core standards that have universal application, such as the Standard Practice for Design of Amusement Rides and Devices (F2291) and the Standard Practice for Operation Procedures for Amusement Rides and Devices (F770);
• helpful guides such as the Standard Guide for Auditing Amusement Rides and Devices (F2974); and,
• ride-specific standards such as the Standard Practice for Design, Manufacture, Operation, and Maintenance of Inflatable Amusement Devices (F2374) and the Standard Practice for Classification, Design, Manufacture, Construction, and Operation of Water Slide Systems (F2376).

While the standards are voluntary, they have been incorporated (by reference) into amusement laws and regulations in many U.S. states and around the world. The standards also serve as the basis for requirements, contracts, and purchase orders for many businesses in the fixed, portable, and mobile amusement industries.

With twice-yearly meetings and constant collaboration, the committee and its subcommittees continually monitor data and update standards accordingly with a strong focus on prioritizing safety of riders and the public.

For more information about Committee F24 on Amusement Rides and Devices and/or to become a member of ASTM International, contact Katerina Koperna (tel +1.610.832.9728).

For media inquiries, contact Nathan Osburn (+1.610.832.9603)