AAMA’s VR Connect Virtual Reality Equipment Sanitation Guide Integrated into ASTM International’s Industry Standards

Cary, Illinois, January 27, 2026 – The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) is proud to announce that its VR Connect Virtual Reality Equipment Sanitation Guide for Location-Based Entertainment Businesses  was a key document utilized by ASTM International in the development of two new industry standards which were published in 2025.  In addition, the document will serve as a how-to reference guide for businesses adopting these standards.  This significant achievement marks an important milestone for both the amusement industry and location-based entertainment (LBE) businesses, establishing comprehensive hygiene practices for virtual reality (VR) equipment in entertainment settings.

ASTM International, formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, is renowned for developing and publishing voluntary consensus technical standards for a broad range of materials, products, systems, and services worldwide.  ASTM is one of the largest and most respected standards organizations in the world, whose standards have served as benchmarks for quality, safety and reliability for 125 years.  The recognition and utilization of AAMA’s VR Connect document underscores the increasing focus on safety and cleanliness in high-contact entertainment experiences, particularly for those integrating XR experiences.

"We are truly honored to have contributed to the industry is such a meaningful way.  We will continue to update the AAMA VR Connect Virtual Reality Equipment Sanitation Guide “ said Pete Gustafson, Executive Vice President of AAMA.  "This is a testament to AAMA’s  dedication to promoting best practices for entertainment venue operators and to ensuring safe, enjoyable experiences for consumers."

As the first sanitation guide of its kind to come out of the amusement industry, the document provides detailed recommendations on cleaning protocols, maintenance, and the safe use of VR equipment in location-based entertainment venues. The guide helps businesses ensure the health and safety of guests while meeting growing public demand for rigorous hygiene standards.

In recognition of the rapid expansion of immersive technologies beyond traditional virtual reality, AAMA has renamed its VR Committee to the XR and Immersive Technology Committee. The updated name reflects the committee’s expanded scope, encompassing virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (XR), as well as immersive attractions and related technologies such as emerging hardware form factors, haptics, wearable systems, and integrated display technologies. The change better aligns AAMA’s internal structure and industry representation with how immersive experiences are defined and deployed across location-based entertainment.

The adoption of this guide by ASTM International is a significant step forward in setting global standards for hygiene in VR entertainment spaces, particularly as the use of VR equipment becomes increasingly common in various industries beyond just entertainment, including education, healthcare, and training.

AAMA will continue to support industry-wide efforts to prioritize the health and safety of guests and employees in all aspects of location-based entertainment.

To read the AAMA VR Connect Virtual Reality Equipment Sanitation Guide for Location-Based Entertainment Businesses, visit the AAMA website here.

About The AAMA 

The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) is an international not-for-profit 501(c)6 trade organization representing the manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, professional service providers and location owner/operators for the coin-operated amusement industry. Our mission is to make the industry better through collaboration, education, advocacy and networking.  We never stop playing!

About ASTM International

ASTM International is a globally recognized leader in the development and delivery of voluntary consensus standards. ASTM standards are used worldwide to improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade, and build consumer confidence.