21
Use Zone for Single-Axis Swings
Use Zone with Protective Surfacing
Use Zone for Multi-Axis Swings
Use Zone with Protective Surfacing
2H
H
2H
6.5 ft.
6.5 ft.
6.5 ft.
6.5 ft.
L
6.5 ft.
6.5 ft.
L+6.5 ft.
CONSUMER INFORMATION SHEET FOR
PLAYGROUND SURFACING MATERIALS
SELECT PROTECTIVE SURFACING
One of the most important things you can do to
reduce the likelihood of serious head injuries is to
install shock-absorbing protective surfacing under
and around your play equipment. The protective
surfacing should be applied to a depth that is
suitable for the equipment height in accordance with
ASTM Specification F 1292. There are different types
of surfacing to choose from; whichever product you
select, follow these guidelines:
LOOSE-FILL MATERIALS:
• Maintain a minimum depth of 9 inches (23 cm)
of loose-fill materials such as wood mulch/chips,
engineered wood fiber (EWF), or shredded/
recycled rubber mulch for equipment up to 8 feet
(2.43 m) high; and 9 inches (23 cm) of sand or
pea gravel for equipment up to 5 feet (1.52 m)
high. NOTE: An initial fill level of 12 inches (30 cm)
will compress to about a 9- inch (23 cm) depth
of surfacing over time. The surfacing will also
compact, displace, and settle, and should be
periodically refilled to maintain at least a 9- inch
(23 cm) depth.
• Use a minimum of 6 inches (15 cm) of protective
surfacing for play equipment less than 4 feet (1.2 m)
in height. If maintained properly, this should be
adequate. (At depths less than 6 inches (15 cm),
the protective material is too easily displaced or
compacted.)
• NOTE: Do not install home playground equipment
over concrete, asphalt, or any other hard surface. A
fall onto a hard surface can result in serious injury to
the equipment user. Grass and dirt are not considered
protective surfacing because wear and environmental
factors can reduce their shock absorbing effectiveness.
Carpeting and thin mats are generally not adequate
protective surfacing. Ground level equipment – such as
a sandbox, activity wall, playhouse or other equipment
that has no elevated play surface – does not need any
protective surfacing.
• Use containment, such as digging out around
the perimeter and/or lining the perimeter with
landscape edging. Don’t forget to account for
water drainage.
• 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.