Playtime is crucial to every child’s life, creating experiences that are marked forever. As parents, caregivers, and playground administrators, your role is vital in ensuring the safety of your child’s playground. By having your checklists ready, you can empower yourself to create a safe environment for your child to enjoy and create core memories.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- GENERAL SAFETY
- EQUIPMENT CONDITION
- ACCESSIBILITY
- MAINTENANCE AND CLEANLINESS
- EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
- FACILITIES
- CONCLUSION
- GENERAL SAFETY
A study says that more than 200,000 children get injured that cause by playground equipment, says the United States Consumers Product Safety Commission. General safety is the visible signs that we can check as we step into the area, such as;
Fall Surfacing
According to research, 75% of playground injuries are from falling incidents, so checking the fall materials used in the playground area is essential. Fall surfacing is one of the most critical features of a playground. Common materials used are rubber mulch, woodchips, sand, and poured-in-place rubber, designed to absorb impact and provide a softer landing in case of falling from playground equipment. Proper maintenance can enhance its significance.
Structural
Securely anchored equipment with safe corners and edges and nontoxic playground equipment are essential for a safe play feature. Proper structural design for playground equipment layouts and prioritizing the well-being of the children can reduce the risk of accidents and inspected by the United States Consumers Product Safety Commission.
- EQUIPMENT CONDITION
Regular monitoring and maintenance of the equipment are vital to ensuring the safety of the children as they play. You can proactively prevent potential hazards by diligently checking and providing children with a safe and enjoyable playtime.
- Check for any signs of rust, cracks and splinters
- Check for the loose parts and tighten the bolts, screws, and fasteners.
- Check the condition of chains and ropes.
- Check the paint and coating to see if it is still intact and not peeling.
- Check the swing seats, chains, and hangers.
- Check that the slide surface is smooth without cracks or damage.
- Check the seesaw handles and seats are still securely attached.
- ACCESSIBILITY
An inclusive, accessible playground is where all children are welcome and can play, explore, and grow together. The playground must meet the rules of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Well-planned and designed features specializing in physical, sensory, and cognitive needs allow every child of all abilities to participate fully.
Ramps and pathways allow children of all abilities to navigate spaces independently and safely and provide access for children in wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices.
Clear signage is a crucial element of an accessible playground. It serves as a visitor’s guide to help them navigate the space effectively and safely. Signages must be placed strategically around the playground, providing vital information such as directions, safety guidelines, and age-appropriate areas.
- MAINTENANCE AND CLEANLINESS
A clean and regularly maintained playground keeps the space welcoming and enjoyable to all playground visitors. Regular monitoring can prevent hazardous materials, debris, trash, and overgrown vegetation that harm children.
Playgrounds are prone to germs that can quickly spread by touching equipment, so it is essential to implement regular sanitation and maintain the cleanliness of the playground and facilities to prevent illness and keep the playground healthy and safe for everyone.
Trash bins must be available in suitable spaces depending on the playground size to encourage visitors to keep clean. They must also be regularly emptied and correctly closed to protect the space from insects and pests.
Regular landscaping helps eliminate hiding spots and keep pests out. Pest control methods must be environmentally friendly and safe for children. In addition to landscape maintenance, surfaces must be free from dirt and vandals.
- EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Playgrounds must have emergency plans, facilities, and an equally knowledgeable staff regarding safety and emergencies.
- A playground must have first aid kits, a station, clear signage, and posted emergency contact numbers.
- A well-trained staff specializing in emergencies, such as first aid applications and safety implementations, is a vital asset a playground must have, and playground visitors must be appropriately oriented.
- An Emergency Exit must be clear and accessible to all abilities and planned carefully in times of emergency, such as fires or weather conditions.
- FACILITIES
In addition, all the essential factors of playgrounds are having facilities that are convenient to all playground visitors, such as;
A shade is installed with equipment to protect the children from the sun while playing. A shaded area with benches allows parents and caregivers to wait and children to rest.
Water fountains should be in the designated areas to keep the playground visitors hydrated throughout the stay.
Playgrounds must have a well-maintained number of comfort rooms depending on the size of the playground and the correct interval between spaces.
Playground Fences to prevent the children from getting out of the area and keep them safely exploring the play inside
- CONCLUSION
Safety is the best thing we can give children, and it’s free. With the features and factors stated above, you now know how to keep play safe and happy for the children and everyone concerned about their safety. A well-experienced, explored, and happy childhood creates a better society today and for future generations.
REFERENCE READING
Playground Safety Checklist: (nh.gov)
Public Playground Safety Checklist | CPSC.gov
Home – Non-Toxic Playground Rubber Mulch (jellybeanrubbermulch.com)
https://natural-playgrounds-toolkit.ready4school.info/book/text/06-11#monitoring-maintenance
https://metrorecreation.com/contact/
https://metrorecreation.com/how-to-maintain-clean-play-areas/