Russia has approved a GOST for tubing slides.

      Rosstandart has approved a new GOST that defines requirements for the design, installation, operation and maintenance of such winter attractions. The document regulates the parameters of descent and run-out tracks, barriers, braking zones and visitor safety. Requirements for the tubing sleds themselves — their design, marking and materials — are also set out. Special attention is paid to minimizing risks associated with collisions and injuries, reports the newspaper Kommersant. The standard describes testing methods that will allow verification of whether a slide meets the established norms. “The new standard takes into account the specifics of operating such infrastructure,” said Rosstandart head Anton Shalaev. The GOST initiative was discussed back in November: in the State Duma it was proposed to put the document into effect immediately upon signing, without waiting the usual six months.