Mostly, the standards require that the ride have restraints appropriate to the ride actions and to the expected passengers. There is also a requirement for a manual restraint release. Not that any reasonable designer would honestly consider building a ride without one.

Roller coaster restraints serve two primary functions: mechanical containment and occupant positioning. From an engineering perspective, restraints are designed to keep the rider's center of gravity within the "envelope of safety" during high-speed maneuvers, inversions, and "airtime" hills. Lap bars and over-the-shoulder harnesses prevent "ejection" when the coaster experiences negative G-forces (which pull you up) or lateral G-forces (which push you sideways). In 2026, restraints have evolved into two main types: ratchet systems, which lock into place at specific increments, and hydraulic systems, which allow for a "custom" snug fit to any body type. Beyond physical safety, restraints play a psychological role by providing a sense of security that allows riders to enjoy the thrill without genuine fear of falling. Modern coasters also use "redundant" locking mechanisms; even if one hydraulic cylinder were to fail, secondary mechanical pins ensure the restraint cannot open while the train is in motion. Each restraint is also fitted with a "limit switch" that prevents the ride from starting unless every single harness is verified as safely closed by the computer system.