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Alpine Skiing

Olympians Rely on Standards for Safety in Alpine Skiing Events

Alpine skiing events will be a highlight for many viewers at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. With downhill, slalom, giant slalom, super G, and super combined competitions taking place from February 13-27, recreational skiers will have a blast watching their professional counterparts take to the slopes. Thanks to standards, Olympians and casual athletes alike can enjoy the trill of cruising down the mountain with confidence.

High-quality equipment is critical for the safety and performance of skiers. Several standards by ASTM International, a member and audited designator of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), provide guidelines for skis, boots, bindings, and more:

• ASTM F1063-09
  Standard Practice for Functional Inspections and Adjustments of Alpine Ski/Binding/Boot Systems

• ASTM F1722-09
  Standard Test Method for Determining Mass and Moment of Inertia of Alpine Skis

• ASTM F1061-08
  Standard Specification for Ski Binding Test Devices

Ski equipment used by recreational athletes in rental facilities is also addressed by ASTM, in ASTM F1064-07, Standard Practice for Sampling and Inspection of Complete and Incomplete Alpine Ski/Binding/Boot Systems in Rental Applications. These guidelines help to assure the safety of skiing gear that is rented from a ski lodge, sports shop, or similar facility.

Whether leisurely or professional, skiing requires special goggles and shields to protect the face. ASTM F659-06, Standard Specification for Skier Goggles and Faceshields, guides equipment that protects skiers against foreign objects that could strike the eye, causing irritation or damage. The standard also offers guidelines that minimize fogging and vision restrictions that distract or handicap the skier and could cause accidents.

As fans worldwide tune in this week to watch their favorite athletes hit the slopes, standards are in place to enhance performance and provide protection during the 2010 Winter Olympics.

To learn more about Alpine skiing events in the 2010 Winter Olympics, visit the official 2010 Vancouver Olympics website.

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