Indoor Playground Safety
By Fran Wallach
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3. The CPSC Handbook identifies tripping hazards as concrete footings, horizontal bars at the bottom of flexible climbers, and for environmental obstacles (rocks, roots). ASTM calls for the installation of anchoring devices for flexible climbers to be installed below ground, but the only tripping point it actually identifies is the support posts for balance beams.
4. The CPSC Handbook calls for brightly colored contrasting cables, wires, ropes, etc., to be suspended between components within 45 degrees of horizontal at a height of seven feet. ASTM adds a minimum dimension of one inch at the widest cross-section dimension of the flexible components, which may be suspended below seven feet.
5. The CPSC Handbook recommends that rung ladders, climbing nets, arch climbers and tire climbers not be used as sole access to preschool equipment. ASTM requires that net, chain or tire climbers not be used as sole means of access to any equipment, but does allow flexible climbing devices for preschoolers as long as the user can bring both feet to the same level before continuing the ascent.
There is clearly a learning process in store for us all, and it will not be an easy task to debrief ourselves on the 1981 Guidelines, and understand the differences between the 1991 CPSC Handbook and the ASTM Specification 1487-93. Not only will we need to know the differences between the two, but we will need to explain the reasons for these differences and their impact on product.
Probably the most valuable service which the 1991 Handbook provides is the clarification of what kind of depth of surface is needed under play equipment for reducing injury severity in falls. For the first time it is possible to determine which loose bulk surface would be best for specific pieces, depending on the height of the equipment. And the CPSC tells us how to measure the "critical fall height" from equipment (from the platform itself, if a protective barrier surrounds the platform, or from the top of the guardrail, if the guardrails are used).
One area not included by CPSC is addressed by ASTM, and that is the issue of safety while providing accessibility to the physically challenged. Note should be taken of the fact that, as of this printing, there are no federal compliance regulations, under the Americans With Disabilities Act, that address playground equipment. There is, however, a compliance requirement to make the playground surfaces accessible, and that requirement has been in place for many years.
The U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board has established a Recreation Advisory Committee, which is in the process of developing recmmendations for playgrounds and play equipment accessibility, but the ASTM Standard F147-93 does include an entire section on playground equipment accessibility.
The concern for children's safety has been escalating over the last few years, but the response and strategies for providing that safety have also been increasing. And the uniquely cooperative work of the three organisations most concerned with safety- NRPA, CPSC and ASTM- have made possible the success with which we are now improving our play areas so that they will provide both a safer and accessible environment in which our children can play, learn and grow.
Written by Fran Wallach,Ed. D
Total Recreation Management Services Inc.
395 South end Ave Suite 29J
New York, NY 10280 |
