As children begin to spend more time outdoors, it is the opportune time to clean play equipment and conduct a thorough safety check. Look for loose screws and bolts, and make sure any wood is in solid condition with no cracking or rough edges that can cause splinters. Touch up paint, if necessary, and check that swings are secure.
Our policy regarding play areas require 9 to 12 inches of hemlock shavings under play equipment. Take some time to rake the shavings under play equipment where low points have developed, most commonly under swings and at the bottom of slides. If you feel that your play areas don’t have enough shavings and you need to purchase more, please contact your property supervisor.
OTHER PLAYGROUND SAFETY GUIDELINES
- S hooks should be closed
- Wood chips appropriately cover all zones of at lease 6 feet in every direction
- Footholds firmly in place
- Handrails are sturdy
- Any paints used are playground approved
- No sharp objects sticking up
- No ropes
- Swing seats are made of rubber or canvas
- Free of standing water or debris
- Area is pest free
- Only property purchased and installed play equipment is used