Playground Hazard Assessment
Playgrounds are filled with potential hazards that put children's safety at risk. Playground Guardian is committed to identifying and mitigating these hazards through our Playground Hazard Assessment.
Why Identifying Playground Hazards is Crucial
Each year, over 200,000 children in the U.S. are treated in emergency rooms due to playground-related injuries. Of these injuries, approximately 45% are classified as severe, including fractures, concussions, and even amputations, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These statistics highlight the importance of regular playground inspections to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
Playground hazards can be classified into several categories, including:
- Fall Hazards: Falls are the leading cause of playground injuries, accounting for nearly 70% of incidents. Inadequate surfacing materials, insufficient use zones, and elevated structures without proper guardrails contribute to these risks.
- Entrapment Hazards: Openings in equipment that are too small or improperly designed can trap a child's head, neck, or limbs, leading to severe injuries or even fatalities.
- Protrusion and Entanglement Hazards: Protruding bolts, hooks, or gaps in playground equipment can catch on children's clothing or hair, leading to choking or strangulation incidents.
- Maintenance Hazards: Worn-out equipment, rust, loose bolts, or broken components can compromise the safety of a playground.
Playground Hazard Priority Rating System
At Playground Guardian, we use a detailed hazard priority rating system to ensure the highest levels of safety for your playground. Our approach focuses on two key factors:
- Age & Wear: We assess the condition of equipment based on its age and visible signs of wear. From new to severely worn, our ratings help identify which equipment poses a greater risk and needs urgent attention.
- Risk Level: We evaluate the potential for life-threatening or severe injuries, rating hazards from 1 (highest risk) to 5 (lowest risk). This helps prioritize which hazards need immediate action to keep children safe.
Partner with Playground Guardian for Safer Playgrounds
Playground Guardian is your trusted partner in creating safe and enjoyable play environments. Our team of certified inspectors and consultants is dedicated to helping you maintain playground safety and comply with industry standards. Contact us today to schedule a playground inspection or learn more about our consulting services.