Playground Accessibility Assessment
Playground Accessibility Assessments help you identify potential barriers and improve access to your play area. Our team follows industry standards, including ADA guidelines and the latest IPEMA Accessibility Checklist, to deliver actionable recommendations for enhancing accessibility.
What Our Accessibility Assessment Covers
Pathways & Entry Points
- The accessible route leading to the play area must be at least 60” wide, with a maximum running slope of 1:20 and a cross slope of 1:48.
- In smaller play areas under 1,000 sq. ft., the accessible route must be at least 44” wide with the same slope requirements.
- Any slope over 1:20 (5%) is considered a ramp and must have handrails and landings for safety.
Surfacing
- Playground surfacing should comply with ASTM F1292 standards for impact attenuation, ensuring safe fall protection.
- All accessible routes, clear floor spaces at play components, and turning spaces must comply with ASTM 1951 for accessibility.
- We assess whether surfacing is well-maintained, stable, and slip-resistant to accommodate mobility devices.
Play Structures & Equipment
- Transfer platforms must be between 11-18” high with a minimum 24” width and 14” depth to facilitate movement between ground and elevated structures.
- Transfer steps should be no more than 8” high and include handholds to aid mobility.
- Elevated ramps must be at least 36” wide with a maximum slope of 1:12 and landings every 144” (12 feet).
- Play areas must include a minimum number of accessible play components based on the total number of elevated structures, ensuring that children with disabilities can fully participate.
General Design Considerations
- Elevated play components should be connected by ramps or transfer systems to ensure at least 50% accessibility.
- Ground-level play tables and sensory components must meet reach range standards for different age groups, ensuring interactive features are within an accessible-height range.
- Play areas should provide a variety of inclusive play experiences, including interactive, sensory, and social play elements.
Partner With Playground Guardian
Our team provides detailed reports and expert recommendations to help you create a more inclusive play environment. Whether you're designing a new playground or improving an existing one, our Playground Accessibility Assessment ensures your space is welcoming to all children.
Are You a Playground Inspection
Do-It-Yourselfer?
If you already have a maintenance staff or people that manage your facilities and playgrounds, Playground Guardian offers the Park Protector app.
