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Playgrounds are a great place for kids to get exercise and socialize with friends. While it is natural for children to fall from playground equipment, the possibility of injury can be reduced with proper surfacing under and around the equipment. Make sure that the playground has impact-absorbing surfaces such as wood chips, sand, mulch or shredded rubber. Avoid paved surfaces like asphalt and concrete. Also, steer children to age-appropriate equipment.
Impact-Absorbing Surfaces
Children are naturally rambunctious and often fall down when playing, which is why playgrounds need safe surfaces to cushion the blow. Generally, the best surface choice is one that can be tested to meet ASTM F1292 standards for peak G-max and HIC levels. These tests use an instrumented hemispherical headform to measure the force of impact at different points on the equipment. The results are then compared to the ASTM standard. A variety of factors can affect the test results, such as box size, temperature, and compression.
When choosing a safety surfacing material, consider cost, accessibility, and maintenance needs. Unitary surfaces, such as rubber tiles, are more expensive to install but require less maintenance over time. Loose-fill materials, such as Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF), are a cheaper alternative but degrade over time and may contain loose hazards. Moreover, they must be replenished regularly to maintain safety standards.
Climbing Platforms
Climbing structures are a great way for children to burn off energy and practice their motor skills. However, kids should be taught how to use these structures safely. They should also be aware of the risks associated with climbing structures that are eight feet or higher. Kids who fall from this height could suffer serious injuries. In addition, they should be careful not to climb over fences or other equipment that may cause them to fall off the structure.
In addition, kids should avoid wearing drawstrings, purses or other items that can get caught on climbing equipment. They should also wear sunscreen to protect against sunburn. Inspecting 안전놀이터 equipment regularly is also important. Look for signs of damage, such as loose bolts or screws, cracks, or holes in the surface. Also, check for debris such as glass, rusty metal, poisonous plants, or other dangerous materials. Also, make sure that no children are crowded on the structure.
Safety Rails
Children can suffer serious injuries when playing on playground equipment, especially if they fall. This is why it’s important for parents to keep an eye on their kids while they’re at the playground and report any problems immediately. Safety rails in a playground help prevent accidents and provide protection for children. They’re also an attractive addition to any playground design.
Ensure that the surfacing around all equipment is at least 12 inches deep and includes materials such as wood fiber mulch or chips, shredded bark, pea gravel, sand or safety-tested rubber mats. The surfacing should extend at least 6 feet in all directions around equipment. Check for head entrapment spaces, such as openings in guardrails and between ladder rungs, which should be less than 3.5 inches or 9 inches wide. Also look for sharp points and edges, protruding bolt ends or “S” hooks, which can strangle children. Make sure that your child wears clothes without drawstrings or cords, which can get caught on equipment and lead to strangulation. Many children have died because their hoods or neck drawstrings got caught on the equipment.
Supervision
Supervision in a playground is an active process that requires adults to be alert and aware of the children they are watching. It also involves knowing safe play rules and recognizing environmental and equipment risks. In addition, it is important that playground supervisors have a means of communicating with each other, such as a walkie-talkie or approved cell phone. One of the most common causes of playground injuries is falling from climbing play equipment, like monkey bars and trampolines. This is especially true for preschool and elementary school-age kids, who are still developing their physical coordination and judgment.
Another factor that can contribute to injuries is distracting conversations between adults. While it is not always possible to eliminate distractions, it is a good idea to establish supervision zones so that you can focus on certain areas at a time. You should also avoid talking or texting while you are monitoring kids. This is not only rude, but it can also reduce your ability to react quickly if an injury occurs.
Final Word
Kids love to climb and explore on playground equipment — it’s great for their physical, social and cognitive development. But falling from equipment can lead to injuries. Injuries can be prevented with age-appropriate equipment, proper maintenance and close adult supervision.
