Making adventure accessible: Revised standard enhances safety and inclusion

Adventure experiences are for everyone.

Standards Australia has published revisions to AS 2316.2 – Parts 1 and 2, covering artificial climbing structures, flying foxes, and challenge rope courses. These updates aim to make outdoor adventure activities safer and more inclusive for people of all ages and abilities.

Last year, we shared how the SF-047 Artificial Climbing Structures committee was working to improve accessibility in adventure activities. That work has now been completed, and the updated standard includes two important changes:

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Benefit-risk assessment

The revised standard now includes methods for assessing both benefits and the risks of participating in activities like flying foxes and challenge courses. This approach helps operators balance safety with the positive outcomes of participation, such as learning, confidence-building, and personal growth.

Instead of focusing only on risk, the benefit-risk approach measures both sides, helping operators make informed decisions about acceptable risks and desirable benefits for different groups of participants.

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Universal Design principles

Universal Design means creating experiences that work for everyone from the start—not just adding accessibility later. The committee tested prototype harnesses, lifting systems, and wheelchairs to ensure that challenge courses can be enjoyed by people with different abilities.

For example, a wheelchair user should be able to move through a course independently, with optional support if needed. Purpose-built wheelchairs may be provided for safety and comfort, ensuring the experience is both secure and enjoyable.

David Eager, Chair of SF-047 committee, concluded:

“The revision of the standard was the most complex task I have undertaken in more than 28 years standards development. It was a truly collaborative team effort, and I was privileged to work with a group of dedicated people who were professionals in this quite specialised field.”

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Why it matters

Adventure activities should offer challenge and fun for all participants. By applying Universal Design and benefit-risk assessment, this standard helps operators create safe, inclusive environments that encourage learning and participation.

Access

• AS 2316.2 Part 1: Flying foxes and challenge ropes courses – Construction and safety requirements
• AS 2316.2 Part 2: Flying foxes and challenge ropes courses – Operation requirement

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