Improving playground safety: new guidelines for giant slides

Giant tunnel slides are a big hit in Australian playgrounds, offering a unique play experience. However, accidents happen more often than we’d like. Incidents at the Shoalhaven giant tube slide and in Adelaide and Sydney have raised safety concerns, especially for slides that are five metres or higher. The main issues are high sliding speeds and slippery clothing.

To address these concerns. Standards Australia is releasing a new handbook, SA HB 244:2025, Supplementary guide to AS 4685.3:2021 - Giant tube slides, this Friday, February 14. This handbook is designed to help councils, builders, and parents keep kids safe while they enjoy these giant slides.

Key details in the handbook:

• Extra guidance on designing, verifying, certifying, testing, and inspecting giant tunnel slides.
• Updated signage recommendations for safe use, including height guidelines and no tandem riding.
• Balancing the fun and learning aspects of play with safety measures to prevent serious injuries.

Some known hazards include tandem riding, braking during the slide, and unintended access to higher parts of the slide. Adult supervision and appropriate design elements are crucial for safety.

The handbook also looks how usage patterns, surface wear, climate, and loose materials affect slide performance. Designers are encouraged to consider all these factors to help reduce injury risks.

🎙️Listen to our recent radio interview with ABC Illawarra on Breakfast with Melinda James and read the 📰 Australian Associated Press (AAP) news article published in the national media.