The WPBO is reminding everyone that chinstraps are mandatory.
The WPBO states that, “…goggles must meet or exceed EC & ASTM Standards. Among other things, the EC & ASTM Standards outline the mandatory use of the chin strap for safety reasons. In order to make this part of the Rules clear for everyone, we remind all the players that using EC & ASTM approved goggles fitted with the manufacturer’s chin strap is mandatory.”
That is the first that I have ever heard of chinstraps being a part of EC and ASTM standards. It does make sense though seeing as every paintball mask now comes with a chinstrap, either installed or in the box.
WPBO Rule 5.2.1 – The goggle systems used by players and all others must be manufactured for paintball use, in good repair and with undamaged lenses. These goggles must meet or exceed EC & ASTM Standards. Goggle manufacturers must submit independent laboratory test results to the league at least 10 days prior to the start of a tournament demonstrating that the goggle system meets or exceeds EC & ASTM standards for any goggle system such manufacturer wishes to be allowed for use during that tournament.
If the WPBO is going to enforce rule 5.2.1, and make chinstraps mandatory, that means that in just four short days at the Millennium’s World Championships chinstraps will be required. The Millennium Series uses the complete WPBO rule book. Four days…they could have at least given warning a bit earlier. Some teams are already in country preparing for the event.
The NXL on the other hand while a partner with the WPBO, do have its own set of rules. The NXL rule book also states the ASTM standards are met. ASTM standards have been on the rules book for a very long time and chinstraps have never been required. If you, the NXL are going to enforce there rule 6.2.1 to the letter, please tell us now, so we are not left hunting for chinstraps at the event.
NXL Rule 6.2.1 – The goggle systems used by players and all others must be manufactured for paintball use, in good repair and with undamaged lenses. These goggles must meet or exceed ASTM Standards. Goggle manufacturers must submit independent laboratory test results to the league at least 10 days prior to the start of a tournament demonstrating that the goggle system meets or exceeds ASTM standards for any goggle system such manufacturer wishes to be allowed for use during that tournament.
These talks all came about because of an incident where Trevor Resar of Infamous’s mask came off and was shot in the face at very close range.
UPDATE 9-12-16:
Millennium Series Statement:
We would like to bring to your attention that the use of the chin strap supplied with all goggles is mandatory.
The news is a little bit too close to Chantilly’s event, we apologize for that. But following a number of recent potential accidents the WBPO are advising that the use of chin straps is mandatory for obvious safety concerns.
But don’t you worry, even if you have lost the chin strap from your goggle for any reasons, you will be able to sort this on the event! All our goggle manufacturers are informed already and will have plenty of the chin straps in stock!
