Children’s playground safety in Australia is not merely a function of the site’s initial design and the choice of equipment.
If safe spaces for kids to play independently are to be maintained, they must be managed continuously and high-quality inspection and maintenance programmes must be offered.
Although there is no special legal obligation to conduct inspection and maintenance programmes, the Health and Safety Executive, suggest using such measures. In addition to having a duty of care to the children utilising the playground, playground supervisors are also required by law to should be followed inspections.
Playground for the unit
The project officers have expertise in landscape architecture, workplace health and safety, and children’s services. Project officers hold a Certificate IV in Training and Education and have expertise performing playground inspections as certified Comprehensive Playground Inspectors.
Aims
The aim is to expand playground safety Australia and dynamic play areas that adhere to Australian Standards for playgrounds. It engages in the following actions to fulfil this goal:
- encourage everyone to engage in recreational and physical activities
- Promote inclusive play area design that complies with
Inspections
Inspections must include the entire site, not just the machinery. Walks, fences, benches, etc. must all be inspected can provide additional details on inspection procedures as well as training if required.
routine inspection
Playground inspectors examine the general health of the system, including any flaws brought on by recent damage. Such inspections should be written on a basic document or book and can be performed by the manager or a member of their team. A checklist should be provided by the equipment supplier; if needed. The frequency will vary depending on the location and local usage, but at the very least, it should be weekly.
operational assessment
This examines the machinery in further detail, focusing primarily on vandalism and some sort of minor deterioration. The management or playground inspectors may conduct these inspections, and they ought to be documented. The quarterly check may not be required if there is a good, regular hands-on check linked to the annual inspection.
annual assessment
A specialist unaffiliated with the management or operator of the playground should handle this. In essence, it examines vandalism, moderate and severe wear, structural issues over time, modifications to standard compliance and design practises risk evaluation, etc. Insurance firms, playground equipment manufacturers, commercial businesses, and safety organisations all provide these inspections.
quality assurance
It is beneficial to have an impartial random check performed by an independent organization, where inspections are conducted by commercial companies. This is especially important for inspections that are hired out to outside parties, like a gardener. Larger organisations could find benefit from an internal systems audit.
Maintenance
No inspection programme is worthwhile unless a system is in place for fixing problems and replacing broken items. There should be a system in place for tracking and verifying repairs. If they are accessible, original components from the manufacturer ought to be used.
Manufacturer’s guidelines
Without information on inspection and maintenance requirements, playground equipment should not be acquired. Before the expiration of the warranty, a particular check should be performed, and the equipment’s age should be recorded.