Playground Inspections  Continued From Page 19


can lead to lawsuits, especially if a child is injured as a result of not complying with these regulations.


Failure to meet these requirements can lead to lawsuits, especially if a child is injured as a result.


When choosing a safety vendor for playgrounds, be selective. Ask the CPSI for customer recommendations from similar properties in the area. Request examples of the documentation they provide. It’s important to receive reports and pictures that are well labeled and detailed. Finally, make sure the inspector is properly bonded and insured.


What Standards Are Used In An Inspection?


When completing a playground report, inspectors use ASTM STANDARDS & CPSC GUIDELINES.


ASTM stands for the American Society for Testing and Materials and CPSC stands for U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.


Inspectors use standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials and the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.


ASTM Standards Outlined In Inspections


` #F1487 for Public Use Playgrounds ` #F1292 for Surfacing ` #F2373 for Children Under Two ` #F2075 for Engineered Wood Fiber (surfacing) ` #F2049 Playground Fence Standard ` #F1951 for determining Wheelchair Accessibility ` #F1918 for Soft Contained Play Equipment.


The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission Handbook for Public Playground Safety (#325) can be downloaded here: www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/325.pdf


20 Community Associations Journal | March 2023


How Much Does An Inspection Cost?


A playground inspection fee can range depending on the size of the playground and the amount of play components. In my experience a quality inspection can range from $600-$900. Budget annually for inspections by a CPSI and bi-annually for the surfacing top-off.


Budget annually for inspections by a CPSI and bi-annually for the surfacing top-off.


When requesting a quote from a vendor be sure to provide the playground’s address, association name, and pictures if possible. Don’t forget that after an inspection is completed, there may be additional expenses to bring the playground into compliance. Additional costs may include surfacing, signage, and component repairs. While a community may feel they cannot afford the required inspections, signs, labels, etc., it’s important to consider how much more a legal defense could cost.


After the inspection, additional costs to bring the playground into compliance may include surfacing, signage, and component repairs.


Enjoy The Benefits We know that parks and playgrounds are a visible reflection of the quality of life in a community. They serve as a gathering place for families and neighbors while also providing tools to support the social and physical well-being and development of children. Hopefully the information in this article has provided some answers about the need for playground inspections.


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