11 FEBRUARY 2016

Roads and Maritime Services and Ski Racing Australia have commissioned new research to improve safety and reduce injury risk in ski racing by improving water ski racing personal protective equipment (PPE).

David Hunter General Manager Boating Operations of Roads and Maritime Services said we’re providing $45,000 for the most significant research project ever undertaken for ski racing in Australia.

“McIntosh Consultancy and Research will conduct a two phase study into ski racing injuries and risk mitigation measures to inform and guide the development of better PPE,” Mr Hunter said.

“The project will assess the risks and hazards of the sport and respond by developing effective PPE as well as look at other approaches to reduce injury risk.

“The project will include reviewing serious ski racing falls and hospital admission data to understand how injuries occur, focus group meetings with key stakeholders including skiers as well as an objective review of PPE currently in use.

“The project is expected to take three to four months to complete and the results will be used to inform the design of improved PPE as part of the second stage of the project.

“The second stage of the project will focus on assessing and controlling risk factors, research workshops and talking to suppliers to develop better standards and PPE prototypes.”

Grant Cummin Chief Executive Officer of Ski Racing Australia said this is the most significant investment into the safety equipment for skiers in the history of the sport, and Ski Racing Australia thanks Roads and Maritime for its support through the provision of funds through a grant program which has allowed the project to begin.

Media: ROADS AND MARITIME SERVICES MEDIA UNIT 8588 5999 or media@rms.nsw.gov.au