designing a playground:
installation & safety standards

Inclusivity

Design the playground to be accessible to children of all abilities. This includes wheelchair-accessible paths, sensory play elements, and equipment suitable for various physical capabilities.

Assessing Needs

Understand the needs of the community and the age group of the children who will use the playground. This will guide the selection of equipment and design features.

Adherence to Standards

Ensure the design adheres to relevant safety standards such as the Australian Standards for Playground Safety (AS 4685 series). These standards cover various aspects, including equipment safety, fall zones, and material safety.

Risk Assessment

Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and design the playground to mitigate these risks. This includes assessing the site for natural hazards, potential for overcrowding, and line-of-sight issues for supervision.

Age-appropriate Equipment

Choose equipment that is appropriate for the age and development level of the intended users. Equipment for younger children should focus on low heights and easy accessibility, while equipment for older children can offer more challenge and complexity.

Spacing and Layout

Proper spacing between equipment pieces is essential to prevent overcrowding and collisions. The layout should also allow for easy supervision by adults.

Impact-Absorbing Surface

Select appropriate surfacing materials like sand, rubber, or mulch, which are essential for cushioning falls. The depth and quality of this material should comply with safety standards based on the height of equipment.

Maintenance of Surfacing

Plan for the regular maintenance of the surface material to ensure it retains its shock-absorbing properties.

Professional Installation

The installation of playground equipment should be carried out by qualified professionals according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards.

Post-Installation Inspection

After installation, a certified playground safety inspector should assess the playground to ensure it meets all safety standards.

Regular Maintenance

Set up a schedule for regular maintenance checks to ensure equipment remains safe over time. This includes checking for wear and tear, structural integrity, and the condition of surfacing materials.

Record Keeping

Keep detailed records of all maintenance activities, inspections, and any repairs or modifications made to the playground.