Low-Frequency Playground Inspections: Long-Term Safety and Maintenance The safety and maintenance of playgrounds are essential to providing a secure and enjoyable experience for children. One crucial component of playground maintenance is the low-frequency playground inspection. Let’s discuss what low-frequency playground inspections entail, why they are essential, and how they contribute to the long-term safety and... Continue Reading
Annual Playground Inspections Playgrounds are more than just recreational spaces; they are a vital hub for children's physical and social development. Whether located within school grounds or community areas managed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs), playgrounds are places where children learn, grow, and make memories. However, ensuring their safety requires diligent care and attention. One crucial... Continue Reading
What is a High-Frequency Playground Inspection? Playgrounds are a sanctuary for children, offering an environment where they can engage in physical activity, socialize, and foster their imaginations. However, ensuring these spaces remain safe requires diligent oversight and maintenance. This is where high-frequency playground inspections play a crucial role. A high-frequency playground inspection involves regular and... Continue Reading
Playgrounds are often a hub of joy and activity for children, offering a space where they can run, jump, and play freely. However, as temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with hot surfaces on playgrounds. The scorching heat of the sun can turn slides, swings, and other equipment into potential hazards, causing burns and... Continue Reading
Playground Safety Standards: What Every Inspector Should Know Children consistently discover creative and imaginative ways to engage with playground equipment. While this type of play is beneficial for their imagination, it may not always prioritize their safety. Although minor incidents like bumps, bruises, and scrapes are inevitable, it is crucial to proactively take measures to... Continue Reading
Playground Regulations and HOAs: What You Need to Know Certain homeowner associations provide additional space for a variety of amenities, such as a park, tennis court, pond, or water feature. Some also include playgrounds for children as one of their features, offering a range of play apparatus to choose from. Whether a playground has been... Continue Reading
Spotting Wear and Tear: Signs Your Playground Needs an Inspection As a certified park inspector, ensuring the safety of all park visitors, particularly children using playground equipment, is of utmost importance. Playground equipment serves as a vital component of any community park, providing a secure space for children to play, exercise, and develop essential social... Continue Reading
Playground Surfaces Most often, playground surfaces fall into two major categories of surfacing: loose-fill and unitary. Loose-fill material is commonly applied manually to establish a flat surface across the entire playground. Although loose-fill material boasts lower initial costs and easy installation, it necessitates more frequent maintenance to comply with safety and ADA guidelines. Examples of... Continue Reading
Monkey bars are a beloved playground staple that offer children the opportunity to strengthen their upper bodies, improve grip strength, and develop coordination skills. It is essential to regularly inspect monkey bars to ensure they are safe for children to use. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to inspect... Continue Reading
An entrapment hazard on a playground refers to situations or features that can lead to a child getting trapped or stuck, potentially causing injury. These hazards can vary in nature and may involve body parts, clothing, or accessories becoming caught in openings or spaces within playground equipment. Common Entrapment Hazards on Playgrounds Playgrounds are designed... Continue Reading
Playgrounds are a source of joy and fun for children, providing them with opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play. However, harsh winter weather can take a toll on the playground equipment, requiring immediate repairs to maintain a safe environment for the little ones. In this blog post, we will discuss common winter... Continue Reading
As the temperature drops and snow begins to blanket our surroundings, children often find themselves cooped up indoors, deprived of the joy and benefits of outdoor play. However, with winter-ready playgrounds, kids can continue to enjoy their favorite activities all year round. In this blog post, we will delve into the numerous benefits of having... Continue Reading
Playgrounds have long been a cherished space for children to enjoy the great outdoors, learn essential social skills, and engage in physical activity. However, ensuring that playgrounds are safe and secure for kids is a paramount concern for parents, guardians, and those responsible for designing and maintaining these play spaces. The good news is that... Continue Reading
Autumn's vibrant foliage and the playful rustling of leaves are synonymous with the season. However, as leaves fall from the trees and carpet the ground, they pose a unique challenge for playground safety. Wet leaves, in particular, can create slippery and hazardous conditions for children at play. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why it's... Continue Reading
Playgrounds are vital spaces for children to engage in physical activity, develop social skills, and have fun. However, these spaces can also pose significant safety risks if not properly maintained. To ensure the safety of children, several states in the United States have implemented regulations that require regular inspections of playgrounds. In this blog post,... Continue Reading
Playgrounds are spaces where children's laughter and joyful adventures fill the air. However, beneath the excitement lies a critical aspect of safety: the playground surface. Did you know that a staggering 70% of all playground injuries result from falls to the safety surface? To ensure the safety of our little ones, rigorous safety standards... Continue Reading
Playground Audit vs. Playground Inspection: Which is Right for You? Playgrounds are spaces where children embark on adventures, learn, and create cherished memories. Ensuring their safety is paramount, and that's where playground audits and inspections come into play. At Playground Guardian, we believe in the importance of understanding the differences between these two essential processes... Continue Reading
Are Playground Audits and Inspections Confidential? Playgrounds are essential spaces for children to play, learn, and develop crucial skills. Ensuring the safety of these areas is of paramount importance to protect our little ones from potential hazards. Playground inspections and audits play a pivotal role in maintaining playground safety standards. But have you ever wondered... Continue Reading
Playground Fall Heights: Ensuring Safety Through Evolving Design Trends Playgrounds are an essential part of childhood, providing a space for children to explore, have fun, and develop important physical and social skills. Over the years, playground design trends have been evolving to include higher and more complex structures. However, with these advancements comes the need... Continue Reading
Playground slides offer children endless fun and excitement, but it's crucial to prioritize their safety. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and adherence to safety guidelines are essential for preventing accidents. This is an in-depth guide on inspecting and testing playground slides. We'll also explore different types of slides, including roller slides, spiral slides, straight slides, embankment... Continue Reading
Playgrounds are vibrant spaces that provide children with opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play. When planning a playground build, prioritizing safety is paramount. From selecting the site to choosing equipment and maintaining the playground, numerous factors must be considered to create a safe and enjoyable environment for children. Let's explore some essential... Continue Reading
Playgrounds are often considered a safe haven for children to have fun, socialize, and engage in physical activity. However, it's important to be aware that certain playground equipment can pose risks and lead to accidents if not used properly or maintained adequately. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most dangerous playground... Continue Reading
Skateboarding is a popular activity that requires skill, balance, and coordination. As skateparks become more common across the world, the need for proper maintenance and inspection also increases. In the United States, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has developed guidelines for inspecting skateparks to ensure the safety of skateboarders. A Certified Playground Safety Inspector... Continue Reading
Metal slides were once a common sight on playgrounds around the world. These slides were made of steel or aluminum, with a shiny finish that glistened in the sunlight. Children would climb the ladder, often feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation, before sitting down on the hot metal surface and sliding down at breakneck... Continue Reading
As a community or organization responsible for maintaining a playground, safety should always be a top priority. Playground safety is not just about having fun but also ensuring that children are not exposed to any hazards while playing. Regular inspections of the playground are essential to keep it safe, and the process of inspecting the... Continue Reading
Playgrounds are an essential part of the community, providing a safe and fun space for children to play and socialize. However, maintaining these play areas is equally important to ensure the safety and longevity of the equipment. Whether you are a school, HOA, church, or any other organization with a playground, developing a maintenance plan... Continue Reading
As a certified park inspector, it's important to ensure the safety of all park visitors, especially children who use playground equipment. Playground equipment is a critical component of any community park, providing a safe place for children to play, exercise and learn critical social skills. However, even the best playground equipment can wear out over... Continue Reading
Winter can be tough on outdoor playgrounds, and de-winterize your playground is an essential task to ensure that it's safe and ready for children to use again. Our team at Playground Guardian has put together some important steps to follow when de-winterize your playground. In this article, we’ll cover: Inspecting the Playground Equipment Common Items... Continue Reading
Montessori playgrounds offer children a unique and stimulating environment for play and exploration. With a focus on natural materials and developmentally appropriate activities, these playgrounds are becoming increasingly popular in schools and outdoor learning centers. Today we're covering everything you need to know about Montessori playgrounds, including what they are, how they differ from traditional... Continue Reading
If you’re planning on installing a new playground, you may be wondering if you need to install a fence around it, just like you would with a pool. Today we’re taking a look at whether or not you need a playground fence, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of installing one. So, Do I... Continue Reading
If you are looking to install a new playground, you’re likely wondering what the best mulch for playground equipment is. We’re here to help you understand your options and the safety benefits they provide. What Is the Best Mulch for Playgrounds? Many people are familiar with mulch as a popular playground surface. However, traditional wood... Continue Reading
Establishing playground rules is one of the best ways to prevent accidents and injuries on the playground. By posting rules and reviewing them regularly, children will have a better understanding of the behavior expected of them on the playground. Here are our tips for creating effective playground safety rules and knowing what to include on... Continue Reading
A safe playground surface is key to preventing injuries and accidents. But unfortunately, the budget doesn’t always allow for the top-of-the-line options that you hope for. Today we’re taking a look at the most affordable playground surfaces that provide a safe play space and effective impact absorption. Factors for Playground Surface Pricing If you’re looking... Continue Reading
Active playground supervision is one of the most overlooked safety factors for outdoor play. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure safe playground supervision and prevent injuries and accidents. Here are eight tips to get you started! 1. Practice Active Playground Supervision While it may be tempting to sit down,... Continue Reading
Playground ziplines (also known as trackrides), are being added to playgrounds across the country. They seem like a fun way to bring the feel of a theme park to your neighborhood, park, or school. But, they may not be as safe as they seem. Today we’re diving into the potential safety issues of ziplines/trackrides and... Continue Reading
Installing a new playground at a park, school, church, or community center is an exciting endeavor! However, it can be difficult to know how to choose safe playground equipment that is right for your community. Check out our tips for what to look for in new commercial grade playground equipment depending on your needs. What... Continue Reading
Playing outdoors with friends or classmates is a cherished memory for many – but did you know that outdoor play can help with everything from social and motor skills to sleep? Check out the benefits of outdoor play to see why playgrounds are such an important part of children’s early years. 1. Outdoor Play Improves... Continue Reading
Regular playground inspections ensure the safety of children at play and prevent serious injuries. But, just how often is “regularly?” Today we’re answering the hotly-debated question – how often should outdoor play equipment be inspected? Routine vs. Periodic Outdoor Play Equipment Inspections Before we get into the factors that affect your inspection frequency, it’s important... Continue Reading
Public playground safety isn’t any one person’s responsibility – it takes many people to keep the children in our communities. We’ve broken down playground safety into three key groups: owners and operators, parents and teachers, and the children themselves. Check out the actionable steps you can take to improve playground safety with our handy guide.... Continue Reading
Whether you care for a neighborhood playground or manage an entire park system of structures, understanding your liability is key. Today we’re answering some of the most frequently asked questions we get about playground insurance and liability. Please note: this blog is not intended to provide legal or insurance advice of any kind. Always consult... Continue Reading
If you own or operate an older playground, you may wonder if your equipment is safe for the children who use it. The truth is, many old playgrounds feature dangerous materials and surfaces. Today we’re looking at five common outdated features and the safe playground materials they should be replaced with. 1. Wood Mulch One... Continue Reading
A playground maintenance plan is the best way to set yourself up for safety and success. Appropriate maintenance can prevent injuries, limit liability, and extend the lifespan of your playground equipment. Here’s everything you need to know about creating a maintenance schedule and keeping your playground in tip-top shape. Why Do I Need a Playground... Continue Reading
If you manage a school playground, summer is the perfect time to tackle maintenance and ensure your playground is safe and ready for another year of use. Here is everything you need to know to tackle summer playground maintenance with ease and keep students happy, healthy, and safe. 1. Schedule a Playground Inspection The first... Continue Reading
If you own or manage a playground or park, regular inspections are a must. But when playground owners and managers learn about the need for inspection, the first question they typically ask is “how much does a playground inspection cost?” Today we’re tackling that question head-on, with price ranges as well as other affordable alternatives.... Continue Reading
As playground equipment ages, it can start to show signs of wear and tear. Colors fade, plastic cracks, metal rusts, and your playground may not have the same appeal it once did. If you’ve also noticed decreased traffic on your playground, you may think it’s time to tear it down. However, there’s a new way... Continue Reading
If you’re looking to replace your existing surfacing or to install surfacing for a new playground, you’ve likely been bombarded by dozens of rubber playground surface options. While they may all seem quite similar, there are a few major differences you’ll want to keep in mind when making your selection. To help you make your... Continue Reading
Each year, thousands of children are injured while playing on playgrounds. And the truth is, insufficient playground surfacing causes many of these injuries. The good news is that you can accurately and affordably test your playground’s surface to avoid injuries and create a safer environment for children at play. Here’s everything you need to know... Continue Reading
At Playground Guardian, we focus on ensuring that playgrounds are structurally sound and free of hazards for children at play. But there are a number of other risks that children face on the playground, including the sun. If you manage a public playground, we highly recommend posting signage on-site to spark conversations about playground safety... Continue Reading
Creating safe, outdoor spaces is the goal of any parks and recreation department. But maintaining a high level of safety with regular public park inspections and maintenance can be costly and time-consuming. At Playground Guardian, we believe maintaining playgrounds should be simple, affordable, and accessible to every park, no matter the size! Today we’ll be... Continue Reading
What is a Certified Playground Safety Inspector? What does CPSI training involve? And are there alternatives to becoming a CPSI that still ensure safe inspections? Keep reading for answers to all of these questions and more! What Is a Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI)? A Certified Playground Safety Inspector is someone who has gone through... Continue Reading
Safe surfacing is one of the best ways to prevent accidents and injuries on the playground. But most surfacing requires upkeep to ensure its safety and longevity. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your surface safe, from inspection and cleaning to playground surfacing repair. What Type of Playground Surface Do You Have? There... Continue Reading
If you’ve recently bought or started managing an indoor play space, you may be wondering how to clean indoor playground equipment. While inspection and sanitization are often overlooked in indoor play spaces, maintaining them is actually quite easy. Here’s everything you need to know about how to inspect and clean your indoor play equipment. Do... Continue Reading
Playground repair and maintenance can be daunting. Without regular inspection, there are a number of factors that can make a fun outdoor experience on the playground a dangerous one. Half of the battle is knowing what to look for when it comes to playground safety and repair. Here are eight of the most common hazards... Continue Reading
Cleanliness and sanitization have always been important. And, with the COVID-19 pandemic fresh in our minds, proper cleaning has never been more top of mind. But what are we doing to protect little ones, not only from COVID, but from colds, the flu, and more? Today we’re digging into how to clean playground equipment... Continue Reading
Over the past two years, businesses around the world have reevaluated their cleaning and sanitizing processes to keep people healthy and safe. The same is true when it comes to playground sanitization at schools, in neighborhoods, and more. If you’re looking to improve your playground cleaning procedures, here’s everything you need to know about sanitizing... Continue Reading
These days, many schools, communities, and public parks are building playgrounds with ADA accessibility in mind. But, the goal of ADA compliance can seem out of reach. This is especially true if you have an older existing play structure that is still in good condition. Here are our tips on how to update and adapt... Continue Reading
A playground can provide fun and enjoyment for children of all ages. But it can also become a liability for businesses, neighborhoods, and organizations if not maintained properly. Regular playground inspections are the best way to keep your equipment in working order and keep children at play healthy and safe. In addition to inspections by... Continue Reading
There are a number of severe weather events that can affect the safety of your playground equipment, including: Heavy rain and flooding Strong winds from tropical storms and hurricanes Snow, blizzards, and freeze-thaw cycles Natural disasters like earthquakes and tornadoes Knowing how to properly inspect your play equipment after a severe weather event and perform... Continue Reading
When your playground starts looking old and faded, your first instinct may be to start shopping for a new one. But did you know that you can renew and refinish your existing playground so it can be used for years to come through a process called playground refurbishing? Here’s everything you need to know about... Continue Reading
When installing a playground, choosing an appropriate surface is one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make. In addition to prioritizing safety, you’ll want to select a surface that is affordable, durable, and low-maintenance. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of the two main playground surfacing options: loose-fill and unitary.... Continue Reading
Slides and swings are two key areas on the playground where playground maintenance is absolutely crucial. Mitigating entanglement risks, avoiding cramped use zones, and remediating inadequate surfacing are all parts of the upkeep process. Inspecting your space regularly and performing the necessary playground maintenance will keep your equipment safe and in working order for years... Continue Reading
This new school year is particularly exciting, as for many, it will mean a return to in-person learning. And one of the most thrilling parts of returning to school for many young students is spending time on the playground. But before your school is back in session, you’ll need to ensure your playground is safe... Continue Reading
Installing a new playground in your community is an exciting event. If you’ve made it through the budgeting and design phases, you know just how much time, money, and energy goes into the addition of a play structure. But, there’s one more massive step to take before your community can enjoy its brand new playground.... Continue Reading
National Playground Safety Week is officially upon us! While a playground is an important element of any community, neighborhood, or school, it’s even MORE important that the playground be both safe and fun! As we continue to welcome visitors to our playgrounds, it is important we take the appropriate steps to ensure that everyone has... Continue Reading
A playground is an attractive feature of any neighborhood, church, or community center -- it’s a great place for children and families to socialize and have fun. As important as a playground is to its community, it’s even more important that it is a properly-maintained, safe play space. So, what steps can you take to... Continue Reading
Playground Maintenance & Repair Your playground represents much more than a long-term investment -- it’s a safe, fun environment for kids and families alike! That said, it takes a lot of time and care to keep it that way. Over time, playground equipment and safety surfacing can be subject to damage, whether it’s regular maintenance... Continue Reading
Spring is coming, which means more time spent outdoors and, hopefully, more kids and families enjoying your park or playground! That said, there’s a lot of work to be done to help get your playground ready for warmer weather. It is important to conduct routine inspections of equipment and surfaces to ensure they meet safety... Continue Reading
Playground, park, and facility managers should always consider doing routine inspections and maintenance for their playground equipment. Properly maintained playground equipment and surfaces are vital to keeping children and families safe while having fun. Here are a few maintenance and inspection tips from the team at Playground Guardian: Schedule inspections and maintenance regularly Inspect and... Continue Reading
Parents and children deserve to know that their playgrounds, play equipment, and other facilities are safe. If your park has pavilions, picnic tables, and other facilities that are used by the public, make sure you keep them safe with regular inspections and audits. So, what is the difference between a playground inspection and an audit?... Continue Reading
Each year, thousands of children are injured while playing on playgrounds. The nature of the surfacing under and around playground equipment can play a big role in determining safety. Surface impact testing helps you ensure your surfaces are safe for children at play. What is Surface Impact Testing? Surface impact testing simulates a child falling... Continue Reading
Colder weather is on its way – but that doesn’t mean that playtime has to stop! Playgrounds are a wonderful resource for getting exercise and burning off energy during the wintertime. But, with colder temperatures, snow, and even hail, there are a few things you should consider to ensure the safety of your playground during... Continue Reading
Skateparks and playgrounds appear to be two very different structures. While there are many similarities between the two, there are also a number differences when it comes to inspection. Here's what you need to know about performing a skatepark inspection. Skatepark Inspection Basics The following items are high-frequency inspection items for skateparks. Keep reading beyond... Continue Reading
You may not know it, but a lot of science and study has gone into determining the best materials and specifications for playground surfaces. As a result of these efforts and studies, groups like the NSC (National Safety Council) have created recommendations for materials, care, and even depth for certain types of surfaces to keep... Continue Reading
At Playground Guardian, we spend most of our time helping playground owners and managers inspect and maintain their equipment. However, our expertise also extends to other park components like metal bleachers and benches, stadium and grandstand seating, and portable and collapsible bleachers. Today we’re discussing everything you need to know about bleacher safety regulations, from... Continue Reading
These playground age warning stickers (ages 5-12) are sold by the sheet. Each sheet contains 4 stickers (3.5 x 5 inches per sticker).
While playgrounds are great fun for children and families, inspecting playgrounds is serious business. Why? A well-inspected and maintained playground helps to keep those same children and families safe from potential harm. Here is a short list of things you should look for when inspecting a playground: Rusted or flaking metal Surface dirt and contamination... Continue Reading
Likely one of the most overlooked areas of playground maintenance and inspections is the play surface itself, but the condition of the playground surface can impact playground injuries and safety. It is very important to keep the play surfaces in good condition and, depending on the materials, at the right depth. Inspecting & Maintaining Mulch... Continue Reading
These playground age warning stickers (ages 2-5) are sold by the sheet. Each sheet contains 4 stickers (3.5 x 5 inches per sticker).
We are witnessing a crisis never seen in our lifetime. The disruption caused by COVID-19 is affecting the lives of billions across the globe, as we are required to adapt to new lifestyles for the unforeseeable future. One thing is certain and that is children and families are yearning to go outside and enjoy our... Continue Reading
The spread of COVID-19 has played havoc with both the health and economy of America, but certainly one universal impact was the closing of all schools in the United States. As state governments announce plans to re-open businesses, they have also begun to announce plans to reopen their schools. As primary and secondary schools prepare... Continue Reading
Playground managers, facility managers, and park directors should always consider regular maintenance and inspections for their park amenities and playground equipment. Regular inspection and maintenance are key factors that help keep children and families safe, playing, and having fun. Proper inspection and maintenance of amenities and play equipment and the surrounding areas is extremely important.... Continue Reading
How Do You Inspect A Playground? Playground inspections, whether performed by a trained Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) or by a local employee, is serious business. The obvious reason for an inspection is to keep the playgrounds or park amenities safe for the use of children and families. Because churches, schools, municipalities, and so many... Continue Reading
Watch this short video about why choosing Playground Guardian can help your parks department or school district when it comes to playgrounds!
Your playground not only represents a long term investment, but a safe haven for children of all ages and abilities. Playgrounds need to be inspected on a regular basis to insure equipment is safe for children to play on. Maintaining the equipment and safety surfacing is your responsibility, and will provide a better user experience... Continue Reading
Spring is here and kids are ready to hit the playgrounds again. We all have fond memories of playing with our friends at recess or going to the park with our families. Playgrounds are a great place to experience the great outdoors, develop our physical fitness skills and socialize. Spring is here and kids are... Continue Reading
With a new year comes new budgets, strategies, ideas and goals. Are you budgeting for inspections, playground upgrades, new playground or park equipment, or just committing to better maintain your parks and playgrounds. With the help of Playground Guardian, you can keep your commitment to safer playgrounds and make maintaining your parks easier this year.... Continue Reading
Recent changes were made to ASTM F1487-17 regarding playground equipment for public use. These changes to performance requirements, equipment, and layout will most likely affect planning, designing and maintaining your parks. However, the changes specifically relating to maintenance call for regular inspections of play equipment and fall surfacing, and makes it clear that the owner/operator... Continue Reading
Playground Guardian’s exclusive “Cloud” based inspection software, Park Protector, is benefitting park and recreation departments and school districts all over the United States. Park Protector inspection software is making park and playground maintenance easier than ever before. Park Protector inspection software isn’t just for inspecting playground equipment. Playground Guardian released an InspectALL add-on module allowing... Continue Reading
For over 50 years, the Cunningham family has operated a leading rep agency in the playground industry covering sixteen states. Cunningham Recreation is a full service organization that includes design, sales and installation of playground equipment and related park and recreation products. For the last several years, our customers have expressed a growing need for... Continue Reading