By Peter Martell ISI

We have recently learned that the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) is once again preparing to propose "industry standards" for ice hockey playing facilities that could, if adopted, have a significant impact on future design, construction, maintenance, operations, use of and litigation involving ice arenas.

You may recall that a number of years ago a subcommittee of ASTM's F08 Committee on Sports, Equipment and Facilities drafted, proposed and eventually published a "Standard Safety Guide for Ice Hockey Playing Facilities." The drafting and editing of the original standard guide took years and had the benefit of substantial input from various industry group representatives and experts. Since being published in 2004, Standard Guide F 1703-04 has been used by attorneys and expert witnesses as a reference in law suits involving ice arenas and their patrons. Following the adoption of F 1703-04, the Subcommittee on Ice Hockey Playing Facilities was disbanded.

Now, apparently, several past members of that committee have formed a "task group" on ice skating facilities. It is this task group that is drafting and proposing the new standard guide. To my knowledge, none of these ASTM members have any personal experience in or knowledge of operating ice skating facilities. In addition, as far as I know, no established and recognized ice skating industry organizations have been consulted or involved in the drafting of this new document.

As a member of ASTM and the previous Subcommittee on Ice Hockey Playing Facilities, the Ice Skating Institute is disappointed and concerned about this new attempt to "regulate" the ice skating business without the knowledge, input or advice from those who know our industry best. Consequently, the ISI will actively and aggressively address the newly proposed standard and is soliciting your advice and assistance in doing so.

Attached below is a link to the proposed draft for your review and commentary. In reviewing the document, please consider the potential impact that its adoption would have on your facility design and operation, management and staffing, equipment selection, operation and maintenance, and conduct of on and off-ice programs and activities.

You can send your written comments to me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or directly to the ASTM Task Group Chair, Mr. Lew Barbe at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Thank you in advance for your time and attention to this important matter and, should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Link: http://www.astm.org/DATABASE.CART/WORKITEMS/WK28746.htm

Congratulations to the Plymouth Ice Arena for being the recipient of the 2010 James Padgett Award that was presented at the Minnesota Ice Arena Manager's Spring Conference on May 4, 2010 at Mariucci Arena in Minneapolis, MN. This award is the highest distinction a member facility can receive.

The annual award is presented to an ice arena that has distinguished itself as a leader, innovator and contributor to the ice arena industry. The Plymouth Ice Center is recognized for its forward thinking, revenue streams, learn to skate program and energy efficient programs. The MIAMA Board of Directors were very impressed with the operation of the Plymouth Ice Center and what your staff has accomplished in this very challenging industry.

The City of Plymouth and its residents can be proud of the Plymouth Ice Center by providing a quality maintained, managed and programmed facility. Congratulations to Bill Abel and the entire Plymouth Ice Center staff.