Recreational use of trampolines in the home setting is a popular activity among children and adolescents. Trampolines were originally designed as a training tool for acrobats and gymnasts and subsequently promoted for military aviator training. Recreational use of trampolines has been an increasing phenomenon , driven primarily by the increased availability of relatively inexpensive trampolines marketed for home use.
Historically, the incidence and severity of trampoline related injury raised safety concerns for the user. These concerns led child injury prevention bodies, consumer organisations and injury researchers to lobby for safer products and develop safe use information for users, which ultimately led to the development of the Australian Standard AS4989 Trampolines – Safety aspects.
The standard is currently under review and sets out the minimum design requirements to reduce the frequency and severity of injuries related to domestic trampoline use. The Standard includes requirements for manufacturers and or suppliers for the safety of the product as well as requirements for instructional material for assembly, maintenance and safe use. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has tips on Trampoline safety and has completed a Proposed regulation of domestic trampolines – Draft regulation impact statement which is anticipated to lead to consumer protection regulation mandating part or all of the Standard.
CFA representative Sue Wicks is on the Standards Australia Technical Committee developing and revising the Standard; the committee is mindful of the need to encourage participation in physical activity while managing the risks that are inherent in trampoline use.
If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a CFA Standards Representative please contact the Standards Coordinator standards@consumeraction.org.au