Australian Playground Safety Standards: Ensuring Safe and Exciting Play

At Moduplay, safety is our absolute priority. We know that minor bumps and scrapes are a natural part of playtime, but we’re dedicated to making sure every child leaves our playgrounds happy, invigorated, and most importantly, safe.

Australia boasts some of the world’s most rigorous playground safety standards. These standards have evolved over the years to strike the perfect balance between challenge and safety. They encourage exciting play experiences that allow children to explore and push their boundaries while minimising the risk of serious injury.


Key Australian Playground Standards You Should Know

Our equipment is meticulously designed, manufactured, and installed in accordance with the following Australian standards:

  • AS 4685:2014: The core standard outlining general safety requirements and testing methods for playground equipment and surfacing.
  • AS/NZS 4422:2016: This standard focuses on the specifications, requirements, and testing methods for playground surfacing materials.
  • AS/NZS 4685.0:2017: Covering the development, installation, inspection, maintenance, and operation of playgrounds and their equipment.
  • AS 1428.3:1992: Addressing design requirements for access and mobility for children and adolescents with disabilities.

These standards delve into many aspects of playground design, including:

  • Minimum Space: The essential space needed for safe play, encompassing the equipment itself, falling space, and free space.
  • Free Height of Fall: The maximum vertical distance a child could fall from a piece of equipment, which influences the type and depth of impact-absorbing surfacing required.
  • Impact Area: The ground beneath and around equipment where a child might fall, which must be covered in a compliant impact-absorbing surface to cushion falls.
  • Entrapment Hazards: Potential areas where a child’s body or clothing could get caught or trapped, which are strictly regulated and designed against.

We understand that safety is an ongoing process. That’s why we strongly advocate for regular safety audits and inspections of all play areas. These checks help ensure that equipment remains in top condition and complies with safety standards over time.

If you need guidance on playground safety standards or assistance with regular safety audits, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can connect you with reputable companies who specialise in playground safety inspections.

Let’s work together to create safe, fun, and exciting play environments for children across Australia & the world.

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