News and Articles from Playground Guardian

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, and it is recommended that you ensure that your surfaces are safe through surface impact testing. So, what is surface impact testing? Essentially, various testing methods... Continue Reading

While the approach of winter means colder weather, that doesn’t stop playtime! As a result of snow and freezing conditions this time of year, unique hazards are possible on playground equipment and protective groundcovers. It is important to pay attention to changing weather conditions and monitor your playground regularly. Here are a few safety precautions... Continue Reading

Skateparks are a completely different kind of activity area from a regular playground. As a result, what is inspected and how things are inspected in skateparks must also be completely different. Of course, there are some standard safety items that cross over from one park type to another. Let’s take a look at some of... 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

With a name like Playground Guardian someone will make an easy connection as to why we talk so much about inspecting playgrounds and park amenities. However, an often overlooked area of inspection and maintenance is seating areas like bleachers and benches for sports fields. What kind of seating areas does this include? ● Metal bleachers... Continue Reading

Nothing can be more depressing to a facilities manager or someone who manages a park or playground than facilities and equipment that looks run down or worn out. While inspections and audits can catch safety issues and concerns leading them to be fixed, families may not feel as though a playground is safe if the... Continue Reading

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