4
OVERHEAD OBSTRUCTIONS:
Overhead obstructions (for example, exterior obstructions such as tree limbs and interior lights) within
the use zones of play structures shall be a minimum 84 inches (2130 mm) above each designated play
surface outdoors and a minimum of 48 inches (1220 mm) above each designated play surface indoors.
All overhead utility line clearances above outdoor supervised and outdoor unlimited access settings
shall comply with all local, state, and national codes, such as the National Electrical Safety Code. For
specific equipment fall zone requirements, refer to the CPSC and ASTM F2373 and use the more
stringent of the two.
CATCH POINT & PROTRUDING HARDWARE:
There should be no dangerous pieces of hardware, such as protruding bolt ends and narrow gaps in
metal connections. Exposed hardware can cut or puncture skin and catch clothing drawstrings, which
could strangle a child.
All protruding nuts and bolts should be eliminated; sharp edges on pipes should be capped or removed.
Check for bent, broken, or severely worn pipe and replace. Examine play system for foreign objects,
holes, and rough edges.
TRIPPING HAZARDS:
There should be no exposed concrete footings, abrupt changes in surface elevations, tree roots, tree
stumps, and rocks, which can trip children and adults. Check for trip hazards, such as the balance
beam support posts, or environmental trip hazards, such as rocks or roots in the play area. Make all
necessary improvements or repairs.
AFTER THE EQUIPMENT IS IN USE:
-Never add components not intended for use with this product.
-Never install other play equipment, fencing, landscaping, etc., that encroach upon the safety zones of
this equipment.
-Check overall stability and rigidity of all play equipment.
-Check for proper assembly, installation and ground anchoring.
-Check and re-tighten all fasteners after the first few days of use and again after three weeks of use.
Thereafter, exercise normal maintenance procedures. Use of a thread-locking compound on the
threads of bolts can prevent persistent loosening.
GENERAL COMMERICAL PLAYGROUND SAFETY GUIDELINES
