New Standards Australia handbook provides guidelines for giant slides

Mindful of a rising number of injuries resulting from the use of giant slides in playgrounds, Standards Australia has released a new handbook with guidance that includes restricting slide use to children taller than 1.2 metres.

On their website, Standards Australia advise “giant tunnel slides are a big hit in Australian playgrounds, offering a unique play experience.

“However, accidents happen more often than we’d like (with incidents raising) 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’s newly released handbook, SA HB 244:2025, Supplementary guide to AS 4685.3:2021 - Giant tube slides, is designed to help councils, builders, and parents keep children safe while they enjoy these giant slides.

With recommendations covering slides over 7.5 metres in total length, the handbook includes:

• 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.

It highlights known hazards include tandem riding, braking during the slide and unintended access to higher parts of the slide, noting that “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, encouraging designers to consider all these factors to help reduce injury risks.

Australian Institute of Health Welfare report
A recent report by the Australian Institute of Health Welfare found playground equipment was the most common cause of falls among children nationwide with hospitalisation rates highest among children aged five to nine years.

The handbook’s guidelines are formulated to reduce potential injuries, but they are not mandatory.

Click here for more information on the newly released handbook, SA HB 244:2025, Supplementary guide to AS 4685.3:2021 - Giant tube slides

Image: Yellow giant tube slide in a children's playground. Credit: Standards Australia.