X3.1.3 Use containment, such as digging out around the perimeter and/or lining
the perimeter with landscape edging. Don’t forget to account for water drain-
age.
X3.1.3.1 Check and maintain the depth of the loose-fill surfacing material. To
maintain the right amount of loose-fill materials, mark the correct level on play
equipment support posts. That way you can easily see when to replenish and/or
redistribute the surfacing.
X3.1.3.2
Do not
install loose fill surfacing over hard surfaces such as concrete
or asphalt.
X3.1.4
Poured-in-Place Surfaces or Pre-Manufactured Rubber Tiles
– You may
be interested in using surfacing other than loose-fill materials– like rubber tiles
or poured-in-place surfaces.
X3.1.4.1 Installations of these surfaces generally require a professional and are
not “do-it-yourself” projects.
X3.1.4.2 Review surface specifications before purchasing this type of surfacing.
Ask the installer/ manufacturer for a report showing that the product has been
tested to the following safety standard: ASTM F1292 Standard Specification for
Impact Attenuation of Surfacing Materials within the Use Zone of Playground
Equipment. This report should show the specific height for which the surface is
intended to protect against serious head injury. This height should be equal to or
greater than the fall height– vertical distance between a designated play surface
(elevated surface for standing, sitting, or climbing) and the protective surfacing
below– of your play equipment.
X3.1.4.3 Check the protective surfacing frequently for wear.
X3.1.5
Placement
– Proper placement and maintenance of protective surfacing
is essential. Be sure to:
X3.1.5.1 Extend surfacing at least 6 feet from the equipment in all directions.
X3.1.5.2 For to-fro swings, extend protective surfacing in front of and behind
the swing to a distance equal to twice the height of the top bar from which the
swing is suspended.
X3.1.5.3 For tire swings, extend surfacing in a circle whose radius is equal to
the height of the suspending chain or rope, plus 6 feet in all directions.
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