Policy Details Page

Regulation 6510.1R

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Playground Equipment

Plans to install playground equipment, either temporarily or permanently at a school site, shall be reviewed by a committee appointed by the school principal and other appropriate staff members. Risk management shall be contacted prior to installation.

1. Equipment must meet the safety criteria listed below:
   1. All playground equipment must have an immediate ground surface, which limits the impact from a fall, in compliance with ASTM F-355-72. The safety surface must extend the maximum distance to which a fall could occur.
   2. Equipment is to be placed so as to take advantage of topography of surrounding terrain and far enough apart so that children will have safe, free movement with the least possible congestion.
   3. All equipment is to be free from hazardous protrusions, points and sharp edges.
   4. Exposed component materials are to be rust-free, clean and durable to use and weather with a minimum amount of splintering, flaking or other deterioration. Lead paint or creosote shall not be used.
   5. Equipment that is low to the ground with a six (6) foot maximum vertical limit is preferred.
   6. All moving parts are to be concealed and designed to minimize the chances of pinching or catching clothing or body.
   7. All equipment must be securely anchored according to the manufacturer's recommendations and installed by the manufacturer or authorized contractor.
2. Equipment should require a minimum of maintenance, specifically for replacement of parts and painting.
3. Equipment should be aesthetically appealing, and encourage active and creative use.
4. Equipment should be difficult to vandalize.
5. Unpadded cement or steel stationary poles should not be in areas intended for running games.

The maintenance supervisor shall coordinate installation of approved equipment with the school principal. Quarterly inspections will be conducted to review continued compliance with safety criteria.

Approved 2/19/02