Playground Equipment and Surfacing Standards Guide · 2019. 6. 15. · BS EN 1177:2008 Impact Attenuating Playground Surfacing Determination of Critical Fall Height. BS 7188:1998+A2:2009

Playsafe Consulting Ltd | Playground Safety Specialistswww.playsafe.co.nz [email protected] 021 720 490

Standards GuideGuide to the NZS 5825:2015 Standard

Playground Safety Specialists

New Zealand

Playground Equipment and Surfacing

V2

e [email protected] w www.playsafe.co.nz p 021 720 490

Playsafe Consulting Ltd

Adam StrideLevel 3 RPII Outdoor Annual Inspector

Level 4 RPII Indoor Play InspectorCompliance Consultant

Surface Impact SpecialistLevel 2 Training Facilitator

Playsafe Consulting Ltd is a professional services provider that specialises in providing playground safety inspections, design consultation and standards training throughout New Zealand. Playsafe’s aim is to ensure children enjoy themselves, grow and develop through safe play.

Playsafe Consulting Ltd inspectors are internationally accredited to the Register of Playground Inspectors International (RPII). Playsafe inspects to the NZS 5828:2015 / EN:1176 Playground Safety Standards. We provide inspections, compliance consultancy, HIC surface impact testing and are one of the few approved RPII Level 2 examination centres in New Zealand.

Playsafe was formed in 2014 by Adam Stride, Managing Director Park Supplies Ltd. Playsafe Consulting Ltd is operated as a separate consulting entity to clearly identify services relating to play safety, compliance, testing, training and inspections.

Playsafe Consulting Ltd has the unique added benefit of being able to access Park Supplies Ltd resources of replacement parts, repairs and maintenance and hand them onto its clients as a full end to end solution.

Adam Stride

Playsafe Consulting Ltd1

Playsafe’s aim is to ensure children enjoy themselves, grow and develop through safe play.

Adam is the Principal Inspector of Playsafe and is also the Managing Director of Park Supplies Ltd, having over 15 years of playground design and manufacturing experience as well as an extensive engineering and construction background.

In May 2010 Adam enrolled with the Register of Play Inspectors International (RPII) and is one of a select group who are qualified to examine inspectors enrolling with the RPII.

Adam is one of the most knowledgeable people around the industry with regard to the different types and properties of impact absorbing surfaces.

Adam’s personal expertise, passion and focus lies in solutions based playground safety, compliance and training.


Accessibility Barriers and Guardrails Barriers Cableway: Dimensions Cableway: Free Space Cableway: Impact Areas Cableway: Safety Chains Climbing Ropes DefinitionsEarly Childhood: GeneralEarly Childhood: Swings Entrapment: Test of all Users Entrapment: Clothing Entrapment: Feet and Legs Entrapment: Fingers Entrapment: Wedge (neck) Entrapment: Whole Body Falling Space Protection Fibre Ropes Free Space General Safety Grip and Grasp Handrails Introduction Ladders Legal Background Management: Documentation Management: Foundations Management: InspectionManagement: Checklist Management: Installation Management: Maintenance Management: Safety Management: Staff Marking Materials Means of Access Minimum Space

Overhead Upperbody Obstacles Obstacles (free space) Product Information Probes Ramps Rigid Circular Openings Rockers: Definitions Rockers: Falling Space Rockers: Safety Requirements Rockers: Surfacing Requirements Rockers: Types Ropes and Chains Carousels: Definitions Carousels: Free Space Carousels: Protective Skirts Carousels: Safety Carousels: Specific Requirements Carousels: Surfacing Slides: Definitions Slides: Free Space Slides: Run-Outs Slides: Safety Requirements Slides: Surfacing Spatial Networks Stairs Surfacing: Definitions Surfacing: DimensionsSurfacing: Information Surfacing: Loose-Fill Surfacing: Safety Requirements Suspended Beams Suspended Ropes Swings: Definitions Swings: Free Space Swings: Requirements Swings: Siting Swings: Surfacing Wire Ropes

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Contents 2


Disclaimer:The interpretations within this guide are those of Playsafe Consulting Ltd. Other interpretations are

possible. Where there is a question or dispute, reference should be made to the published Standard

available from Standards New Zealand. Playsafe does not accept any responsibility for use or incorrect application of standards information within

this document.

An Essential Guide to NZS 5828:2015

This guide summarise’s the main requirements of the standard for the interested lay person. It does not replace the standard. In the event of legal claims or disputes, reference should be made to the full standards, copies of which are available from Standards New Zealand - Ref: NZS 5825:2015. Where additional information is felt to be helpful these are included as Author’s Notes.

The Standard recognises the developmental importance of play and risk. It is felt that children need to experience risk and the Standard is designed to prevent injuries with a disabling or fatal consequense. It cannot remove all possibility of injury. Parental or care-giver supervision is crucial in reducing injuries to children.

4


Two main standards for playground equipment were used which includes implementation of EN 1176 Parts 1 - 7 and 10 - 11:2008 and EN 1177:2008.The standard also includes an adoption of BS 7188:1998+A2:2009.

NZS 5825:2015Playground Equipment and Surfacing.Part 1: Part 2: Part 3: Part 4:Part 5:Part 6:Part 7:Part 10:Part 11:

General safety requirements and test methods.Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for swings.Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for slides.Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for cableways.Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for carousels.Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for rocking equipment.Guidance for installation, inspection, maintenance and operation.Fully Enclosed Play Equipment is outside the scope of this document.Additional specific safety requirements and test methods for spatial networks.

BS EN 1177:2008Impact Attenuating Playground Surfacing Determination of Critical Fall Height.

BS 7188:1998+A2:2009Impact Absorbing Playground Surfaces: Performance Requirements and Test Methods. EN 1177 solely concerns the testing of impact absorbing surfaces. All other requirements and recommendations have been transferred to NZS 5825:2015.

The NZS 5828:2015 / EN 1176 Playground Standard 5

The standard is intended to promote and encourage the provision and use of playgroundsthat are well designed, well constructed, well maintained, innovative, and challenging. Play is essential to the healthy development of children. Through independent or cooperativeplay, children are able to learn about themselves and their environment, while stimulatingtheir creative, emotional, and physical development.

Children interact with playground equipment in a way that will vary depending on the child’s age and level of development. The primary aim of any playground should be to stimulate a child’s imagination, provide excitement and adventure in safe surroundings, and allow scope for children to develop their own ideas of play. Ideally playgrounds should encourage development of motor skills and present users with manageable challenges to develop physical skills and to find and test their limits.

Abbreviations:Critical Fall HeightFree Fall HeightBritish Standards InstituteSeverity Index

CFCFHFBSI SI


NZS 5825:2015 is not retrospective or, currently, a legal requirement in New Zealand but represents good practice in the event of an accident claim. Their limitations should be recognised: mere compliance will not automatically create a safe playground or give immunity from legal proceedings. Like previous playground standards they are intended to be used intelligently as part of a risk assessment.

Equipment produced before NZS 5825:2015 should meet a previous standard or have undergone third party testing and risk assessment.

Where there are differences between the new and old standards, our advice is DON’T PANIC! Equipment that has been perfectly safe under previous standards and have not suddenly become dangerous the day after publication of the current standard, risk assessment should also prevail in this instance.

All new equipment should meet NZS 5825:2015. The same applies to the provision of impact absorbing surfaces.

Some elements of NZS 5825:2015 are open to opinion. In the event of a dispute, advice, information and guidance on interpretation may be sought from knowledgeable parties such as a Level 3 Playground Inspector or the RPII - Register of Playground Inspectors International.

Some deviations from the standard have become industry accepted as experience was gained from practical implementation on site. Commonsense and risk assessment will remain a good guide.

Legal Background6


The official definitions may be found in the Standard - the explanations which follow attempt to explain them in every day terms. The definitions selected are primarily for the purchaser: Others that affect the manufacturer or supplier have not been included. Additional definitions are included in each part of the additional requirements.

Playground Equipment: Items provided for outdoor play such as swings, slides, roundabouts etc. It does not include staffed and fully fenced adventure playgrounds although its general principles are a useful guide. Equipment produced for the home is not covered by this Standard. Climbing Equipment: Items on which children cannot stand unaided but must hold on, requiring three points of contact unless moving.Playing Surface: The surface at which the play equipment commences.Forced Movement: A movement to which a child is committed by the design of the equipment (i.e. a swing, slide or fire man’s pole).Free Space: The space which children are forced to use by the action of the equipment (i.e. slide, swing or fire man’s pole).Falling Space: The space through which the child falls from the point of fall.Free Height of Fall: The greatest vertical distance measured from the highest clearly intended body support to the impact area.Collective Use: Use by more than one user at a time.Ladders, Stairs and Ramps: Means of access or egress, the difference between them being detailed on Page 8.Impact Area: The area where the child will strike the surface or another item or part of equipment (see Section on Surfacing Page 13).Grip and Grasp: A part which the child needs to support their weight will require grip and a part the child uses for balance would require grasp.Obstacle: An object that protrudes inside the space occupied by equipment. Family of Products: Modular or multi-play equipment.Easily Accessible: Protection against falling is required where there are ladders, stairs, ramps or tiered platforms (less than 600mm height difference) which fail to allow time for the intervention of a parent or care-giver.Cluster: Two or more separate pieces of equipment installed no greater than 500mm apart to provide continuity. e.g trail of stepping stones.Steep Play Equipment: Access/egress play element of a gradient greater than 45˚ from the horizontal.

Definitions 7


Probes should be applied to all accesses. All means of access should have no entrapments; be securely fixed. It does not refer to steep play elements used as an access i.e. arched climbers, scramble nets. (see page 20)

LaddersLadders should:1. Have rungs and/or sides up to 60mm diameter (grasp) or have handrails 16-45mm (grip). - Near verticle ladders i.e within 10˚: apply grip requirements to the rungs.2. Be evenly spaced (not between top rung and platform and bottom rung and ground).3. Be non-rotating and equally spaced. - Timber fixing methods should be secrued against removal. - There should be a clear space behind the rung or step, when measured from the tread centre line, of more than 90mm when measured at 90˚ to the ladder. - Ladder sides may be higher than the platform.

StairsStairs should:1. Have at least three risers.2. Be evenly spaced.3. Have a minimum tread depth of 110mm.4. A 30mm maximum gap between tread front and next tread back (See diagram 1).

• Stairs over 2m in verticle height should have intermediate platforms at less than 2m intervals, the same width and be over 1m long. They should change direction by 90˚ or be off-set (no off-set on free-standing slides up to 2.5m).• Guardrails and barriers should have 600mm high handrails from the first step and meet grasp requirements.• Barriers are required above 600mm.• Guardrails should be provided from the first step .• Guardrails and barriers should meet grasp requirements and handrail requirements.

Ramps(Inclined surfaces up to 38˚ from the horizontal with a constant angle).Ramps should: • Have slip-resistant measures if accessible to all ages i.e footholds.• Guardrails and barriers should have 600mm high rails from the first step and meet grasp requirements. • Barriers are required above 600mm.• Guardrails should be provided from the first step. • Guardrails and barriers should meet grasp requirements and handrail requirements.

Means of Access8


Definitions• Handrail: A rail to help the child balance.• Guardrail: A rail to prevent children falling. • Barrier: A guardrail with non - accessible infill.

Grip and GraspA part which the child needs to support their weight will require grip and a part the child uses for balance would require grasp.Grip requirements: Holding of the hand round the entire circumference of a support, between 16-45mm diameter (See diagram 2).Grasp requirements: Holding of the hand round part of the circumference of a support not exceeding 60mm diameter (See diagram 3).

Handrails Where required they should be between 600mm and 850mm above the foot position.

Guardrails and Barriers• Platforms up to 600mm - no barriers required + impact absorbing surface over 600mm (can be grass up to 1.5m, but see note on grass in Surfacing section Page 13).• Equipment over 600mm requires a 600-850mm barrier.No bars, infills or steps that can be used as steps. Tops should discourage standing or sitting.

Open Sided Platforms• At the access and exit openings to play items from a platform (i.e a fire pole) the space in the barrier shall be 500mm, unless there is a guardrail.• Width for stairs, ramps and bridges should be the same as the access item.• For play elements with an inclination over 45˚ which are not easily accesible (e.g scramble net) the opening is 1200mm max.

Handrails, Guardrails and Barriers

Diagram 2 Diagram 3

Grip Diameter16-45mm

Grasp Diameter60mm Max

StairsTread Projection

Diagram 1

9


MaterialsMaterials and product finishing treatments should meet Standard requirements if available or be suitable for their purpose.

Flammability: Use flame resistant materials.

Timber: Timber should be resistant to ground decay by selection of the correct species, construction method or preservatives. Metal fastenings should not be corroded by the timber species used, by any paint or preservative. Metal: Metals should be protected against corrosion by severe climate, special natural conditions (salt water) or environmental pollution (Suppliers can advise on specialtreatments). Metal producing toxic oxides/flaking must be protected by a non-toxic coating. Authors note: Incompatible metals may cause corrosion. Toxic Materials: Such materials must not be used where children can access them.

Finishing • Timber species and synthetics should prevent splintering. • There shall be no protruding nails, projecting wire rope terminations or pointed or sharp-edged components.• Protruding bolt threads within any accessible part of the equipment shall be permanently covered, e.g. dome headed nuts (See diagram 4).• Nuts and bolt heads that project less than 8 mm shall be free from burrs (See diagram 4).• Welds should be finished smooth. • Corners, edges or projecting parts should have a min 3mm radius (See diagram 5).• No crushing or shearing points between moving and/or stationary parts of the equipment• Where equipment comes to a stop, it should be cushioned (i.e dampers on rocking items).

Materials and Finishes 10

Under 8mmProjection

Rebated Rebated & Capped

Dome HeadFastening

Cap Assembly

Diagram 4 Diagram 5


Minimum Space

The minimum space around equipment is made up of three elements:

1. Space occupied by equipment.

2. Free space (only applies where there is ‘forced’ movement and this distance should be stated by the supplier).

3. Falling space (surfacing area). Free spaces may not overlap, falling spaces may overlap but free spaces + falling spaces may not overlap (other than for cluster items).

• The free space is measured vertically as well as horizontally (see diagram 1).

• The measurements for the free space are:Standing A: 1000mm B: 1800mm (See diagram 7).Sitting A: 1000mm B: 1500mm. Hanging A: 500mm B: 300mm (above the hanging position) (See diagram 6).

• Some equipment may have different distances set by the supplier.

Minimum Space / Freespace

Diagram 6Diagram 7

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Protection Against Injuries in the Free Space• No obstacles in the free space (other than structures to assist, support or safeguard the user, for example, platforms with fire poles or hand-rails).• Clearance between pole and take-off platform: 350mm minimum.• Fire poles should meet the grip requirements (See diagram 2).• Traffic flows should not go through the free space.

Protection Against Injuries in the Falling Space• Free height of fall should not exceed 3m.• No obstacles in the falling space (i.e rigid bar at base of angled nets).• The impact attenuation of the surface should meet the requirement for the corrresponding free fall height of the equipment.• Dimensions are as given in surfacing section (See diagram 9 and 9.1).• Adjacent platforms with difference in height of more than 1m require impact attenuation.

Protection Against Injuries Due to Other Types of Movement• No unexpected obstacles.

Falling Space

Extent of Falling SpaceUnless otherwise specified, the extent of the falling space shall be at least 1.5m around elevated parts of the equipment, measured horizontally and extending from the vertical projection plane below the equipment (See diagram 9 and 9.1). The falling space shall increase for free heights of fall above 1.5m together with the extent of the impact area. In most cases there may be overlapping of falling spaces including impact areas. Unless specified in other parts of this standard, overlapping of the falling space where forced movement exists should not occur (See diagram 8).

Key1 Impact Area2 Falling Spacex Extent of Falling Spacey Height of Falling Space

Diagram 8

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Surfacing should be tested and certified to meet HIC requirements. EN 1177 refers only to methods of test. BS 7188: Impact Absorbing Playground Surfaces: Performance Requirements and Test Methods . Other requirements are in Part 1 of NZS 5828:2015.

Definitions• Free Height of Fall: The greatest vertical distance measured from the highest clearly intended body support to the impact area.• Measurement From:

• Standing (from foot support to surface below). • Sitting (seat to surface below).• Hanging (hand support height to surface below). • Climbing (when body support is a combination of feet and hands. ie a fire pole).

NB. Climbing items should not give access to a free fall height of over 3m.• Impact Area: The area which can be hit by the falling user.

InformationSurfacing suppliers must supply:1. Correct installation instructions.2. Maintenance instructions. 3. Inspection procedures.

Safety Requirements • Loosefill surface materials should be installed at 100mm more than the depth required to compensate for displacement during use (See diagram 9, 9.1 and 9.2).• Hard surfaces should only be used outside the impact area.• Tested impact attenuating surfaces should be used where falls over 600mm or where forced movement is possible. • No requirement under 600mm CFH and with no forced movement, but still some form of protective surface is recommended.

Surfacing

Use of GrassGrass may be used up to a fall height of 1.0m providing the risk assessment includes the following criteria:• A depth test of 150mm should indicate very few stones or any hard objects. • Areas of wear are strengthened (eg scuff mat).• The use of the grass surface is monitored.• A good upper layer sward is maintained.

13


Surfacing continued

Falling Space / FallzonesFor Static (non-moving equipment only) not applicable for swings, rockers or cableways.Unless otherwise specified, the extent of the falling space / fallzone shall be at least 1.5m around elevated parts of the equipment, measured horizontally and extending from the vertical projection plane below the equipment.

Diagram 9

Diagram 9.1 Diagram 9.2

14

Note - Under 600mm FHFFalling space is still required under 600mm FHF, min 1.5m fallzone required, however this can be reduced around cluster equipment (see page 7)

Loosefill Surface MaterialsFallzones

Falling Space / Fallzones


This section covers climbing ropes, chains and nets.

Connections• Connections shall be secured so that they cannot come loose of their own use.• Connections should not be able to be undone without the need for tools.

Chains • Maximum opening of individual links: 8.6mm in any one direction.• Connecting links between chains must be less than 8.6mm or over 12mm.

Ropes Fixed at One End• Not combined with swings in the same bay.• Less than 2m long: Over 600mm from static parts, over 900mm from swinging parts. • 2m - 4m long: Over 1000mm from any other part or component.• Rope diameter: 25-45mm.• Ropes should not form loops.• A stiffer rope, depending on its diameter and construction, will make it more difficult to create a loop, thus reducing the risk of strangulation. However, it will still allow good grip.

Ropes Fixed at Both Ends (Climbing Ropes)• Anchored at both ends.• For a rope fixed at both ends, typically for climbing up and not part of a larger net structure, it shall not be possible to make a loop in the rope that is wide enough to let Probe C pass through.• Rope should meet grip requirements - Grip diameter: 16-45mm.• The rope should be rough enough to allow for a good grip and should be stiff enough to reduce the risk of strangulation.

Heavy Suspended Beams Deemed heavy when they have a mass of over 25 kg: (i.e, logs, tree trunks, planks)• Ground clearance of 400mm minimum at all times. • Changes in profile: 50mm minimum radius.• Range of movement should be less than 100mm and shall not go beyond the support poles.

Ropes, Chains and Connections 15

Heavy Suspended Beams


Definitions• Entrapment: A place from where children cannot extricate themselves unaided. • Crushing Point: A place where the equipment moves to entrap a child.• Shearing Point: A point where the equipment moves to create a cutting injury.• Bound Opening: An opening the periphery of which is broken.• Non-bound Opening: An opening with three sides (i.e a space between a platfrom and two verticals).

NB. Head, neck and torso entrapments start at 600mm above the ground or standing surface.

There are Six Probes: The Torso Probe (C), the Large Head Probe (D), the Wedge Probe and the two Finger Probes. A new probe (E) tests bound flexible openings. The tests for children under three have been removed. There is also a toggle test to reduce the dangers of clothing and toggles being caught and a ring gauge for use on rocking equipment only. Full details of the test methods may be found in the Standard. Dimensions are given on the inside back cover.

Entrapment of Head and Neck in Completely Bound, Partially Bound, Shearing or Moving Openings• No head or torso entrapments whether entering head or feet first.

Tests for All Children (Rigid or Flexible Openings)• All cases: If the Torso Probe (C or E) enters then the Large Head Probe (D) must also pass through to its full depth, not including the handle.• The probes are not rotated and the taper should be ignored.• If the C or E probes fail to enter to its full depth, there is no entrapment.• If probe E is used on a flexible bound opening a pull of 20k is required to access the opening where entrapment is suspected.Author’s note: Steel cored rope will stretch in use, particularly when new. Re-testing may be advisable.

Wedge EntrapmentsThe basic test is: If Portion B can be inserted level or to an angle of up to 45˚ to a greater depth than the thickness (45mm) then Portion A should touch the bottom without touching the sides. Angles between 45˚ and 90˚ have a second test: If Portion A can be inserted to less than Portion B it passes.

Entrapments16


Toggle TestsThis is to assess whether clothing can be trapped and is used only where there is freespace. There are tests for slides, fire poles and accessible roof ridges. This does not refer solely to anorak type toggles.NB. The chain length has been decreased and the stand base has a size.

Slide For narrow slides, place on centre line, move forwards keeping pole vertical - toggle or chain should not be caught. Do not use force, the test is where the chain or toggle can be caught naturally. For wide slides, position the pole at both sides of chute surface. The test is applied for the whole chute length and height of the test pole.

Fire Poles1. Position the device vertically at the edge of the platform nearest the pole - there should be no entrapment of the toggle.2. Remove toggle and chain, hold 1.8m above platform and re-test.3. Continue test down the pole to height of 1.2m from the ground.

RoofsRemove chain and toggle and apply to any openings in the apex or surface in a downward motion to test for entrapment.

Non-Rigid Members (i.e Rope and Chains)• Overlapping must not create an entrapment.

Bridges The space between the flexible bridge and rigid sides should not be less than 230mm (See diagram 11).Authors note: Wire rope will stretch in use and may lead to an entrapment.

Entrapments continued 17

Playsafe has probe kits and wear guages available for

purchase, visitwww.playsafe.co.nz


Entrapment of the Whole BodyEquipment should be constructed so that the following hazardous situations, which might cause entrapment, are not created:a. Tunnels into which children can crawl with their whole body (See Table 1).b. Suspended parts which are heavy or have rigid suspension.

Tunnels shall conform to the requirements given in Table 1.

Entrapment of Feet and Legs Surfaces intended for running/walking shall not contain gaps likely to cause foot or leg entrapment. Gaps in the main direction of travel shall not be greater than 30mm when measured across the direction of travel (See diagram 10).

Entrapments continued18

Diagram 10


Fingers EntrapmentsThese may occur in:1. Gaps where the movement of the child may cause a finger to become stuck. 2. Open-ended tubes. 3. Moving gaps.

• Openings within the free space or with a lower edge over 1200mm above the playing surface should be below 8mm in any one direction (i.e a slot). • If the 8mm probe enters, the 25mm probe should also enter (not chains). • Probes should not encounter other entrapments when inserted to 100mm.• Tube ends should be securely enclosed and removable only with tools. • Moving gaps should not close less than 12mm.• Diagram 12 shows entrapment distances.

Entrapments continued 19

Diagram 11

Diagram 12


NZS 5825:2015 / EN 1176 Probe Set

Entrapment Probe Dimensions

20

Playsafe has probe kits and wear guages available for

purchase, visitwww.playsafe.co.nz


These requirements refer only to the four types of swing identified.

Definitions• Swing Height: Distance between pivot centre and ground surface.• Swing Suspension: Distance between pivot centre and seat surface. • Ground Clearance: Distance between lowest part of seat and ground.• Seat Height: Distance between top of seat and ground.

TypesType 1: Traditional classic swing. Type 2: Swing with restricted movement. Type 3: Single point swing.Type 4: Contact (Hexagonal) swings.

Requirements• Two seats per bay maximum. • Cradle and flat swing can be mixed in the same bay. • Type 3 swing chains should not twist round each other. • Type 3 swings require a secondary bearing means of suspension (eg, snag hook etc). • Type 4 swings should discourage children falling forwards, for example, by seat design.

Dimensions• Swing Seats (Belt and Bucket) minimum ground clearance at rest: 350mm.• Swing Seats (Belt and Bucket) no maximum seat height however we recommed 550mm.• Basket Swings minimum ground clearance at rest: 400mm.• Vertical Tyres minimum ground clearance at rest: 100mm.• Distance between seat and frame: 20% of swing suspension + 200mm.• Distance between seats: 20% of the swing suspension + 300mm. • If tilted at an angle of 30˚ the upper edge of a cradle seat should be level with or behind the leading the edge of the seat base unless impact requirements are met.• Pivot splay (separation distance) at crossbar: Width between fixing seat fixings + 5% of swing suspension length.

Siting • Swing sets for young children should be separated from those for older children and sited to avoid cross traffic. • Enclosures should be at least 1.5m from the swing seat edge.

Freespace • The free space is 500mm from seat centre line measured horizontally to the front and 1000mm either side with the seat at 60˚ to vertical. • For synthetic surfaces barriers or other obstacles must be 500mm from the surfacing area in the main direction of movement.

Swings 21


Surfacing Side Width Type 1, Type 2 and Type 4 Seat width no greater than 500mm: 1.75m minimum. (i.e 875mm each way from seat centre - 50% each side from seat centre). Seat width greater than 500mm: 1.75m minimum + difference between seat width and 500mm (50% each side of seat centre).Areas for two seats in one bay: May overlap providing the distance between seats is 20% if the swing suspension + 300mm. Surfacing Side Width Type 3Circular area with a radius equal to the Forward and Backward figure for Type 1 or 2 swings.

*Length of suspension member (pivot to seat surface at 635mm from ground).

Swings continued22

Surfacing RequirementsFree Height of Fall• FFH is calculated from the centre of the stationary seat surface at 60˚ (half swing suspension length + height of swing seat at rest).

Forward and back Different areas for synthetic and loose-fill surfaces in a box or pit. • Synthetic: 0.867 x length of suspension member + 1.75m • Loose-fill: 0.867 x length of suspension member + 2.25m

Surfacing Distances for SwingsMinimum surfacing distance from seat centre to edge.


Definitions• Slide: A slope that contains and guides the user. • Embankment Slide: A slide where the majority of the chute follows the land contours.• Attachment Slide: A slide that has access from other items (i.e a platform).• Starting Section: The section where the child gets onto the slide. • Sliding Section: Where there is forced movement.• Run-Out: Section where the speed is reduced. • Guarding Section: Protection against falls from the starting section.

Safety Requirements• Free-Standing Slides: The maximum vertical height which a stairway can reach without a 90˚ change of direction is 2.5m.• Minimum length of starting section 350mm minimum. NB. This can be the platform for attachment slides.• If the starting section is over 400mm long, barrier requirements apply.• The opening to the slide is the same width as the starting or guarding section.• For attachments slides over 1m FFH there should be a guarding section if the starting section protrudes beyond the platform with a height of at least 500mm at one point. • For attachment slides over 1m FHF there should be a guardrail across the entrance to the slide at a height of between 600-900mm.• Free-Standing slide starting section should have a guarding section equivalent to barrier requirements. • Free-Standing slides over 2m easily accessible requirements apply.

Sliding Section• Maximum angle: 60˚ at any point and an average overall of 40˚.• Angle changes over 15˚ should be radiused (curved). For the first 2m in height the radius is 450mm and for the remainder the radius is over 1000mm.• The width of open and straight slides over 1500mm long should be less than 700mm or greater than 950mm.• Spiral or curved slides should have a width less than 700mm.

Free space• 1m radius centred on the mid-point of the slide.

Surfacing requirementsNormal distances except for the run-out should be: (See Table 2).• Type 1: 1m each side and 2m beyond.• Type 2: 1m each side and 1m beyond.

Slides 23


Lateral Protection and Profile• Chutes should have a side height of:

• Fall height up to 1.2m: 100mm minimum.• 1.2m - 2.5m: 150mm minimum. • Over 2.5m: 500mm minimum.

• Maximum side angle from slide bed: 30˚. • Tops of sides should be rounded or radiused to at least 3mm.

Run-outs• Run-outs of at least 300mm are required if the sliding section is under 1.5m long (See table 2). Additional requirements if over 1.5m long:

• Type 1: Short run-out slide. Over 1.5m and under 7.5m: Equal or greater than 500mm with a radiused end of 50mm. Over 7.5m: greater than 1500mm with radiused end of 50mm.

• Type 2: Long run-out slide (all lengths over 1.5m). The run-out is a minimum of 0.3 x sliding length.

• Average angle of run-outs:• Type 1: 10˚. • Type 2: 5˚ (both downwards).

• Height of run-out:• Less than 1.5m sliding length: Maximum 200mm.• Great than 1.5m sliding length: Maximum 350mm.

There is no minimum run-out height.

Slides continued24


This refers only to wire cable systems and not to trackway systems.

Definitions:• Traveller: The trolley and suspension mechanism holding the seat or handle.

Safety Requirements • The cable height of seating type cableways, shall be 2100mm minimum if the trolley is unshrouded. If the trolley is shrouded then the cable height can be reduced to 1800mm minimum (if the moving parts of the traveller are enclosed) are not accessible by the user and there is no possibility of finger entrapment.• Stopping the traveller and the suspension element shall not swing through an angle of more than 45°.• The traveller shall be constructed so that it cannot slip out of place. • Travellers shall be provided with means to prevent accidental access.• Suspension mechanism should be flexible and exclude the risk of strangulation. • A tail may be provided under the seat for pulling the traveller back to the start but should prevent risk of entrapment or strangulation.• Maximum loaded speed is 7m per second. • If two cables are placed parallel the minimum distance between them in 2m. • The falling space and impact area at least 2000mm to each side of the cableway at least 2000mm beyond the end of the swinging position.

Cableways (Flying Fox) 25

Impact AreaFree Height of fall


Definitions• Spatial Network: Climbing equipment as geometric 3-dimensional assembly of flexible elements, which by its design will yield.

The requirements are: (See Fig 1 for examples)• Flexible elements can be e.g. ropes, chains, etc.• Ropes must conform to Grip requirements (between 16-45mm diameter).• Because of the way in which climbing equipment is used, if the user were to fall, this would be a vertical downward fall into the structure. Therefore, structural elements outside the net are not considered to be in the falling space.• For Type A or B Nets, there should be no straight path through the structure with a diameter greater than 650mm.• If this exists the surface must meet the CFH requirements of the highest point.• For horizontal nets (Type C) the mesh size should be less than 420mm diameter. • The FFH is from the highest point of direct fall to the surface beneath.

Spatial Networks26


Definitions• Carousels: Items that rotate around a vertical axis or one included up to 5˚. TypesType A: Rotating chair.Type B: Traditional platform roundabout.Type C: Overhead rotating item with hanging grips.Type D: Track-driven roundabout.Type E: Large revolving inclined discs.NB. Rotating items under 500mm diameter are excluded.

Safety Requirements• Maximum free height of fall: 1000mm (For Type C: 1500mm-3000mm).• Maximum speed at periphery of mechanically driven roundabouts under reasonable use: 5m per second. As no method is given, this cannot be tested to NZS 5825.2015. BSI are testing items by the test method in the former BS 5696 and issuing approval for reconfirming items. Author’s note: In our opinion such tests should be accepted. • Hand grips should be between 16-45mm.

Specific RequirementsType A: • Maximum diameter: 2000mm.• Ground Clearance: 400mm minimum. • Minimum of three seats, spaced equally. • All components should be free from burrs and rounded with a minimum 5mm radius.• Seats should conform to swing seat requirements for impact absorbency.

Type B: • Platforms should be circular and enclosed.• All parts should revolve in the same direction.• No super-structure over the edge of the platform.• Underside should be smooth and continuous.• Mechanism should be enclosed. • If set flush in ground, there should be a maximum 6mm gap between the edge and the ground and a vertical difference (trip hazard) of less than 20mm. • If not set flush, ground clearance more than 400mm or 60-110mm maintained for 300mm from edge.

Protruding bolts underneath are covered by the protrusion requirements.

Carousels (Spinners) 27


Roundabouts with Protective Skirts • Protective skirts should be of rigid material and have no burrs or other defects. There are further detailed requirements listed in the Standard.

Type C: • Handgrips must be the same height and, if below 1.8m, flexible.

Type D: • Pedals and cranks should be free-wheel. • All mechanisms should be enclosed. • Any openings in the enclosure should be less than 5mm. • Distance between crank arms and other components should be at least 12mm. • No shear points.

Type E: • Clearance of underside at lowest point: 300mm.• Maximum platform height: 1m.• Free space: 3m. • The upper surface should be continuous, smooth and with no handles or grips.• Underside should be continuous, smooth and without any radial variations (i.e spokes) or indentations.

Rotating Items Under 500mm DiameterIf the spinner has a diameter of less than 500mm, it is exluded from the requirements of carousels and only needs a 1500mm surface impact area applied.

Carousels (Spinners) continued28


Definitions• Rocking Equipment: Which can be moved by the user and is pivoted from below.• Damping: Any movement restricting device. NB. Springs are treated as self-damping.

TypesType 1: Traditional single central pivot up and down seesaws. Type 2a: Typically a single spring rocker with main movement in one direction.Type 2b: Typically a single spring rocker moving in more than one direction.Type 3a and 3b: As 2a and 2b but with multi-springs.Type 4: A multi-pivot rocking item. Type 5: Sweeping seesaw (with vertical and horizontal movement - ie a Mobilus or Waltzer).Type 6: Overhead single-axis seesaw (i.e rocking beam with hanging seats).

Safety Requirements

Rockers 29


*Ground clearance not required when there is damping or motion mainly in a horizontal direction.• Throughout the range of movement gaps in all accessible parts of the suspension mechanism should not be less than 12mm. • Progressive restraint at extremity of movement is required (not for spring rockers and not when damped).• Foot rests should be provided where the ground clearance is less than 230mm. • Hand grips should be provided for each seat or standing position.• Foot rests and hand grips should be firmly fixed & non - rotating.• Hand Supports should have a ball end or similar of min 44mm diameter. • Hand grip diameter: 16-45mm (For toddler items: 30mm maximum recommendation).• Right-angled corners on moving equipment should be 20mm radius minimum.

Movement Type 1: Maximum horizontal movement: 140mmType 3a: Maximum sideways movement: 5˚

Type 4: Maximum horizontal movement: 600mmType 6: Free-fall height should not exceed 2m when seat angle is at 20˚

Falling Space 1000mm fallzone required, measured at the items full extent of movement. Author’s note: We recommend this is increased to at least 1250mm.

Rockers continued30


General This provides additional requirements to the adoptions of EN 1176 Parts 1 – 7 and Parts 10 – 12, EN 1177, and BS 7188 contained within this standard and provides the maximum free height of fall for overhead upper body equipment.This appendix does not apply to early childhood education services.

Free Height of Fall Overhead Upper Body Equipment, or part of the equipment, from which suspension is intended from the hand(s) without foot support, for example monkey bars, parallel bars, turning bars, horizontal ladders, track rides, and other suspended style equipment shall have a maximum free height of fall of 2200 mm.

This excludes the following equipment:a. Cableways (also known as flying foxes). b. Spacial Networks (also known as space nets). c. Single vertical climbing ropes.

Overhead Upper Body Equipment 31


This provides additional requirements for supervised early childhood education services (ECE).

Definitions• Moveable equipment: Range of equipment that is not permanetly fixed in place, and can be moved on a regular basis to extend play opportunities. Free Height of Fall For early childhood education services, the maximum free height of fall shall apply:

Moveable Playground EquipmentMoveable playground equipment shall be used only under supervision. When not in use, moveable playground equipment shall not be accessible.

Moveable playground equipment includes:a. Climbing boxes or similar.b. Timber planks and jouncing boards, ladders. c. ‘A’ frames with a trestle ladder.d. Cargo nets from 12mm minimum diameter rope.e. Ropes from 12mm minimum diameter.f. Slides.g. Other attachments for accessing climbing boxes or static platforms. h. Swing attachments.

Supervised Early Childhood32

Play Equipment Type Free Height of Fall

Moveable Boxes 1200mm

Movable Box Activities (Monkey bars, bridge rails) 1500mm

Fixed (permanent) Play Equipment 1500mm


Requirements A minimum fall zone of 1500mm shall apply for moveable play equipment items that measure more than 600mm from ground level. Moveable play equipment items do not require handrails, guard rails, or barriers. The other clauses of NZS 5828:2015 standard shall apply to moveable play equipment.

Moveable playground equipment shall have attachments that connect securely and are unable to move or slip out while in use.

Moveable playground equipment with a free height of fall over 600mm shall have an approved impact attenuating surface.

The surfacing used beneath playground equipment having a free height of fall not exceeding 600 mm, should have some impact attenuating properties.

When setting up play experiences using moveable playground equipment, the supervisor shall ensure that the equipment is placed in such a way as to prevent the equipment tipping or falling while in use and to prevent entrapment.

A further useful tool for Supervised Early Childhood Playground Information is: Supervised Early Childhood Handbook SNZ5828;2006 HB.

Supervised Early Childhood 33

Gates (this is an RPII recommendation, excluded from the standard).• Gates should open and close properly. • Should not contain pinch / shear points.• Striker plates should have a rubber buffer (or dampening effects, i.e magnalatch).• Clearance gate of at least 12mm around the gate frame, maintained throughout the full range of motion.• Closing speed from 90˚ should be within 4-8 seconds.


Table 3 - Swing seat separations, pivot dimensions, free height of fall and fall zones.

Supervised Early Childhood Swings33

Swings• Swing frames may have more than two swings per bay.• Swings may be of different types and may be combined with swinging ropes and other suspended equipment. • Fall zones of swings shall not overlap fall zones of any other equipment. • The fall zone of the swing shall be determined by using the 60˚ angle in 4.10.2 of EN 1176-2 and extending by only 1500mm in lieu of 1750mm or 2250mm stated. • Swing seat separations, pivot dimensions, free height of fall, and fall zones for Early Childhood shall be as given in Table 3 Supervised Early Childhood Swings.


Safety• Appropriate safety systems must be established by the operator.• No access should be allowed to unsafe equipment or areas.• Records of safety management should be kept by the playground operator. • Effectiveness of safety measures should be assessed annually (a risk assessment and annual inspection).• Signs should give owner details and emergency service contact points. • Entrances for emergency services should be freely accessible. • Information on accidents should be kept.• Staff and users should be safe during maintenance operations. • Single post equipment requires special attention.

InspectionsA post-installation inspection should be carried out by an independent organisation such as Playsafe Consulting Ltd. Manufacturers will recommend the inspection frequency although high-vandalism or high-use sites may need a more frequent check.

Routine Visual Inspections: Identification of hazards from vandalism, use or weather conditions. We recommend a recorded daily or weekly inspection according to the risk assessment (see checklist example page 38).

Operational Inspection: Every 1-3 months or as recommended. Checks operation, stability, wear, sealed for life parts etc. (see checklist example page 38).

Annual Main Inspection: Check long-term levels of structural stability, wear & tear, safety, entrapment and compliance. (Contact Playsafe for this inspection)

Installation, Inspection, Maintenance and Operation 34

www.playsafe.co.nz | Ph: 021 720 490

• Level 1 Routine Outdoor (Visual)• Level 2 Operational (Wear & Tear)• Level 3 Annual Outdoor (Compliance)• Level 4 Enclosed Play Indoor• Surface Impact Testing• RPII RoSPA Playground Inspector Training• Compliance advice / Build consultancy

Playsafe Inspection ServicesWe specialise in playground safety inspections, surface impact testing and training. Our core services are as follows:


Author’s note: An Annual Inspection should be carried out by an inspector qualified by the Register of Play inspectors international - see www.playinspectors.co.uk. Examinations are also available from the Playsafe Consulting Ltd, for staff carrying out the Routine and Operational Inspections.

• An inspection schedule should be prepared for each playground, listing components and methods.• Appropriate action should be taken if defects are noted.

Staff• Competence of personnel should be appropriate to the task. • Training is necessary. Playsafe Consulting Ltd can advise. • Adequate information about equipment and about their responsibilities should be given to staff.

DocumentationPlayground records should include:1. Certificates of tests or compliance with standards. 2. Inspection and maintenance instructions. 3. Operating instructions from the supplier. 4. Operator’s own inspection and maintenance recommendations. 5. Design and tender documents.

Routine Maintenance • Basic routine maintenance details should be supplied by the manufacture and include security of fixings, painting and staining, surfacing maintenance, lubrication and cleaning.

Corrective Maintenance• This covers remedial work and repairs as required. • Alterations should be only be carried out after consultation and agreement with the supplier or a competent person.

Installation, Inspection, Maintenance and Operation continued35


Installation, Inspection, Maintenance and Operation continued

Equipment should be permanently marked and include:

1. Manufacturer, distributor or agent.2. Year of manufacture.3. Equipment reference.4. Basic level mark.5. Number and date of the standard NZS 5828:2015

Equipment Marking

36

Installation• Equipment should be installed safely to appropriate national building regulations and to the manufacture’s instructions.

Foundations• Should not present a hazard. • In loose-fill surfaces, foundations should be 400mm below the surface or, if tapered for water shedding, 200mm or, be covered by the equipment. There are no specific requirements for synthetic surfaces (Diagram 13).

Diagram 13


Information to be provided by the manufacturer/supplier of playground equipment.

InformationThe manufacturer/supplier shall provide the following instructions in the appropriatelanguage(s) of the country in which the equipment is to be installed and used.

Pre-Information 1. Minimum space requirements.2. Surfacing requirements (including free height of fall and extent of surfacing).3. Dimensions of largest part(s).4. Mass of heaviest part/section (in kg).5. Target user group for this equipment (age, etc).6. If the equipment is intended for indoor or supervised use only. 7. Availability of spare parts. 8. Certification of conformity with NZS 5825:2015.

Installation Information9. Minimum space requirements and safety clearances. 10. Equipment and spare parts identification. 11. Erection sequence (assembly instructions and installation details). 12. Need for any special tools/lifting devices or assembly aids. 13. Constructional space required/orientation in relation to sun and wind. 14. Details of foundations/footings under normal conditions. 15. Free height of fall (for impact attenuating surfaces needs). 16. Painting or treatment requirements/details.17. Removal of assembly aids/details. 18. Manufacture to supply necessary details for inspections prior to first use.

Product Information37

LOCATION: DATE OF INSPECTION:

INSPECTED BY: DATE OF NEXT INSPECTION DUE:

ITEMS TO BE ASSESSED FOR POTENTIAL HAZARDS: WHAT IS THE HAZARD:RISK LEVEL VH-H-M-L

WHAT ACTION TAKEN,WHEN, BY WHOM?

SURFACING:Pay particular attention to equipment high use/wear areas.

LOOSE-FILL MATERIAL:Check depth is 300mm, rake back worn areas?Any broken glass, rocks, foreign objects to cause physical injury?Any borders enclosing loose-fill not secure?

SYNTHETIC MATERIAL:Is synthetic material in good condition, secure with no trip points?Any fouling of surface or chewing gum, foreign objects, rocks?

EQUIPMENT PLATFORMS, STRUCTURES AND FRAMES:Any obvious physical damage or missing parts, vandalism?Cracked or damaged plastic or wood panels?Are there any protruding screws, nails or bolts?Have any loose items such as ropes, rocks or logs been brought into the playground?Are surfaces free from moss, mould, unhygienic matter?

ROPES, CABLES, NETS, CHAINS:Check that ropes, cables, nets and chains are in good condition.Check for wear, cuts, and loose fittings.

SWINGS:Check for smooth swing actions, seat damage or vandalism andwear to clevis’ and fittings.

ROTATING ITEMS:Check for smooth rotation and visible damage or vandalism.

SLIDES:Check for damage, vandalism or foreign objects on slide bed/sides.

ROCKING ITEMS:Check for looseness in movement or damage.

FLYING FOX / MONORAILS:Check trolley for smooth operation and end stops. Check cable/track for wear.

ACCESS AND ENTRANCE:Are all access ramps, entrances free of slipping or tripping points?

SANDPITS:Any sign of pooling water or drainage issues?Is sand raked daily to remove any foreign objects, fouling, glass?

GENERAL SITE LAYOUT:Are paths around playground clear of hazards, cracks, vegetation?Is playground environment in good condition, free of rubbish?Are seating, fencing, rubbish bins in good condition?

*The level of risk of a hazard is dependent on factors includingthe likelihood of occurance and potential for causing injury or death.

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PLAYGROUND INSPECTION CHECKLIST (DAILY OR WEEKLY)

Phone: 027 720 490 Email: [email protected] Web: www.playsafe.co.nz

PO Box 62-048, Sylvia Park 1644Play Safe Auckland, New Zealand

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Playsafe Consulting Ltd | Playground Safety Specialistswww.playsafe.co.nz [email protected] 021 720 490

www.playsafe.co.nzPlayground Safety SpecialistsNew Zealand

Documents

Playground Equipment and Surfacing Standards Guide · 2019. 6. 15. · BS EN 1177:2008 Impact Attenuating Playground Surfacing Determination of Critical Fall Height. BS 7188:1998+A2:2009