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Ensuring Child Safety: States That Require Playground Inspections

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

Understanding the Importance of Playground Surface Testing

  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?

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 Inspections and Audits Confidential?

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

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

Comprehensive Guide to Inspecting & Testing Playground Slides

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

Ensuring Safety: Key Considerations for Planning a Playground Build

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

The Most Dangerous Playground Equipment

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

Skatepark Safety Inspections

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

The Dangers of Metal Playground Slides

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

Developing a Playground Maintenance Plan

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

Signs That Your Playground Equipment May Need to Be Replaced

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

How to De-winterize Your Playground

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

Everything You Need to Know About Montessori Playgrounds

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

Do I Need a Playground Fence? Pros & Cons to Consider

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

Creating Playground Rules for Kids (With Examples!)

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

Our Top 5 Safe & Affordable Playground Surfaces

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

How to Promote Safe Playground Supervision

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: Safe? Or a Playground Safety Hazard?

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

How to Choose Safe Playground Equipment

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

6 Benefits of Outdoor Play for Children

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

How Often Should Outdoor Play Equipment Be Inspected?

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

Playground Guardian’s Guide to Public Playground Safety

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

Safe Playground Materials: 5 Alternatives for Outdated Playgrounds

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

How to Create a Playground Maintenance Plan

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

How Much Does a Playground Inspection Cost?

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

Get a Playground Facelift with Playground Guardian RENEW

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

What Is the Best Rubber Playground Surface?

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

What Is Playground Surface Testing?

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

Sun Safety Guidelines for Schools | Playground Guardian

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

Park Protector: The Future of Public Park Safety

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

How to Perform Playground Maintenance Following Severe Weather

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

What Is A Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI)?

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

How to Clean, Inspect, and Perform Easy Playground Surfacing Repairs

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

How to Clean Indoor Playground Equipment

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

8 Common Hazards That Require Playground Repair

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

How to Clean and Sanitize Playground Equipment Properly

  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

Make Sure Your Playgrounds Are Ready for Play With Playground Sanitization

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

How to Make Your Playground ADA Accessible

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

Playground Safety Tips for HOAs, Campgrounds, and Franchisees

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

How to Perform Playground Maintenance Following Severe Weather

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

4 New Playground Trends for 2022: A Focus on Fun & Playground Safety

Each year, fresh trends emerge from state-of-the-art equipment to new initiatives and focuses on outdoor play. From inclusive playground equipment to outdoor classrooms, here are our top four playground design and safety trends for 2022. 1. Inclusive Playground Equipment Over the past few years, we've seen an increased focus on inclusivity and accessibility across the... Continue Reading

Sanitizing Starter Kit

Sanitize your playground with a great starter kit to get you started. This includes: 1 case of Disinfectant Wipes 1 case surface cleaner 2 cases gallon size disinfectant sanitizing solution 1 Battery Operated Portable Foamer

The Pros & Cons of Different Playground Surfacing Options

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

Playground Maintenance For Safer Slides & Swings

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

NoTouch Lockbox + Liquid Playground Hand Sanitizer Station

This touchless outdoor hand sanitizer station includes a starter 1100 ml dispenser of hand sanitizer. It is a durable 14-gauge steel locking enclosure with keys. It ships with mounting post for in-ground installation. Usage instructions are on the front in English and Spanish. CAUTION: Only use sanitizer liquid on hands.

Playground Safety Inspection Software

How to Get Your Playground Ready for the 2021/2022 School Year

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

What You Should Know About Installing Your Playground

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

Happy National Playground Safety Week

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

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Playground Maintenance Tips for HOAs, Churches, & Communities

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

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Playground Equipment Usage: What You Need to Know

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

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What Should My Playground Inspection Checklist Include?

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

How to Keep Your Playground Properly Maintained

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

Give Your Playground a Facelift for 2021

Playground Repairs & Resurfacing As we kick off 2021, it’s important to remember that a new year is an opportunity for change--and that includes change for your playground! As playground equipment ages, it can show signs of wear and tear as well as other symptoms: fading paint, cracking plastic, and sometimes even rust or broken... Continue Reading

Not All Cleaners/Disinfectants Are Created Equal

Keeping surfaces clean is always important -- but now, during a pandemic, it is more important than ever. Amidst all the chaos, many companies have come out with “new disinfectants” with effectiveness claims that are misleading to the general public. In order to avoid falling victim to inaccurate claims, make sure to always ask for... Continue Reading

How to Keep Your Park, Pavilions, and Picnic Areas Safe

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

The Importance of Surface Impact Testing

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

6 Winter Playground Safety Tips for Colder Weather

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

How Do I Inspect My Skatepark?

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

How Can I Know My Playground Surfaces Are Safe?

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

Bleacher Safety Regulations & Inspection Guidelines

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

Playground Warning Labels Age 5-12

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).

What To Look For When Inspecting A Playground

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

What to Look for When Inspecting Playground Surfaces

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

Playground Warning Labels Age 2-5

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).

How To Re-Open Your Playground After COVID-19

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

Top 10 Tips for Playground Maintenance

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

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

Peroxigard® Surface Cleaner & Disinfectant Wipes

Peroxigard® Ready-To-Use Surface Cleaner and Disinfectant Wipes (6" x 7") in Large Canister. 160 wipes in each canister, 12 canister in each case. A simple way to clean and disinfect while dispensing a consistent and repeatable amount of disinfectant, minimizing variability and maximizing performance. By employing a disposable wipe protocol, you can be confident that... Continue Reading

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Why Choose Playground Guardian

Watch this short video about why choosing Playground Guardian can help your parks department or school district when it comes to playgrounds!

Inspecting and Maintaining Your Playground Investment

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

Inspecting Playgrounds After Severe Weather

As communities begin recovery after Hurricanes and other forms of severe weather, it’s important to inspect playground equipment. Here is a checklist for looking after your playground, particularly in areas that experience storm surge and/or flooding. Close and Inspect If you have significant, obvious damage, like trees falling on your equipment, or if the equipment... Continue Reading

Playground Safety is Important to Us All

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

Playground Equipment ASTM Safety Updates

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

Maintaining and Inspecting Your Parks and Playgrounds Made Easy

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

Why Choose Playground Guardian to Maintain Your Parks & Playgrounds

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