How Playground Surfacing Can Make Playtime Fun And Safe

When it comes to playground surfacing, much has changed in recent years

. The typical playground of today is far different when compared to the play areas of only a couple of generations back. Playgrounds in any public environment must now conform with stringent expectations, with potential liabilities in store for those who do not pay particular attention to the standard of the surface itself.

With correct surfacing, the type and severity of any injuries can be significantly decreased. Playgrounds must be surfaced carefully with attention to the type, as well as the installed depth. In particular, the surface around playground equipment is especially vulnerable to injuries. Swings and slides are potentially dangerous items of equipment, if the child should fall from a height onto a non-forgiving surface.

While public playgrounds almost invariably pay specific attention to the need for surface treatment, private playgrounds very rarely do. The number of injuries sustained here is significant, with most of those injuries resulting from a fall from equipment to a non-forgiving surface. Unfortunately, grass is not an adequate protector as it will invariably become hardened and compacted, especially during those very dry summer months.

Rubber mulch is one of the best playground surfaces you can get. It is made of durable bonded rubber and composed of old tires and other ingredients and it looks very similar to the mulch that you use around your flowers in the back garden. Do make sure that the rubber mulch has an independent test mark and conforms with BSEN 1176, so that it can absorb impacts correctly. This product has the advantage of being easy to put down and is almost maintenance free.

When it comes to a natural look, environmental responsibility and all weather suitability, few surfaces are as accommodating as rubber mulch. For example, you can still maintain grass, trees and plants in the playground area with little disruption.

Alternatively, why not take advantage of some of the latest technologies, which are designed to create a visually appealing surface as well as a safe environment. Known as Playsafe, this option can be rolled up like a carpet and placed on top of any surface including grass. It is all-weather and will stand up to a lot of normal wear and tear. Any number of colourful graphics can be incorporated within this product. For example, you could lay out a hopscotch course or other element designed to draw the children into playtime.

One other option is called Wetpour, which is a laid surface made up of rubber granules together with polyurethane resin. This option can also come in a variety of different colours and can be illustrated with a number of different graphics or shapes.

All options under consideration should have been tested to conform to the relevant standards and able to cater for that critical fall height of at least 3 m. Don't take any needless risks, especially when any one of these options can make your playground far more pleasing to the eye and a much better environment for your kids as well.

by: Nick Morgan

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