Every skier and snowboarder must behave in such a way that they do not endanger or harm others.
FIS - Rules
2. control of speed and driving style
Every skier and snowboarder must ski on sight. They must adapt their speed and riding style to their ability and the terrain, snow and weather conditions as well as the density of traffic.
3. choice of lane
Skiers and snowboarders coming from behind must choose their lane in such a way that they do not endanger skiers and snowboarders in front of them.
4. overtaking
You may overtake from above or below, from the right or from the left, but always at a distance that allows the overtaken skier or snowboarder enough space for all his movements.
5. entering, starting and driving uphill
Every skier and snowboarder who wants to enter a slope, start again after a stop or swing or ski uphill must make sure that they can do so without endangering themselves or others.
6. stop
Every skier and snowboarder must avoid staying in narrow or unclear places on a slope without need. A skier or snowboarder who has fallen must clear such a place as quickly as possible.
7. ascent and descent
A skier or snowboarder ascending or descending on foot must use the edge of the slope.
8. observe the signs
Every skier and snowboarder must observe the markings and signaling.
9. assistance
Every skier and snowboarder is obliged to provide assistance in the event of an accident.
10. identification requirement
Every skier and snowboarder, whether witness or participant, whether responsible or not, must provide their personal details in the event of an accident.
What?
The FIS rules are ten internationally recognized rules of conduct for skiers and snowboarders that were established by the International Ski Federation (FIS) in 1967.
For what?
They serve as a basis for safe and responsible behavior on the ski slopes by providing clear instructions on topics such as consideration, speed control and right of way rules.
Together
THE FIS RULES: THE CORNERSTONE OF SAFETY ON THE SLOPES
The FIS rules have formed the international foundation for safe skiing since 1967. These ten elementary rules of conduct, adopted by the International Ski Federation (FIS) in Beirut, are based on the fundamental principle of mutual consideration.
Historical development
Originally developed from the “Eigenregeln des Skilaufens” by the German lawyer Rudolf Nirk, the FIS rules have continuously evolved. Significant adjustments have been made:
- 1990: Extension of the right-of-way rules
- 2002: Integration of snowboarders and carving techniques
LEGAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE FIS RULES
The FIS rules have a special legal status in Austria:
- No formal law, but authoritative standard of conduct
- Recognized by the Supreme Court (OGH) as a summary of the duty of care in skiing
- Transferring the principle of trust to the ski slope
Practical effects:
- Skiers can rely on others to follow the rules
- Possible legal consequences in the event of violations
- Creating legal certainty in skiing
The FIS rules thus form a binding code of conduct that ensures the safety of all winter sports enthusiasts and serves as a basis for judgment in the event of a dispute.
