How to identify unsafe playgrounds
Playing outdoors is important for the development of children. But in order to avoid accidents, it is necessary to plan a recreation area so that space is both creative and safe.
In order to guarantee the safety and fun of children in condominium parks, hotels, schools, clubs, squares, buffets and restaurants, some standards were established by the body responsible for technical standardization in the country.
Based on English standards – one of the most rigid in the world, the ABNT playbook indicates what a playground should look like: toy angles, fixing, flooring types and suitable materials. Know more:
Floor of the playground
One of the rules dictated by ABNT concerns the floor of the playground that to absorb the impacts must be soft. The recommended floors are sand and grass with depth for cushioning. Parks installed on concrete or asphalt floors are completely outside the rules established by ABNT.
Materials
The materials used must be resistant to atmospheric conditions and oxidation and free of harmful chemicals. ABNT advises that the materials indicated are: plastic, steel, galvanized iron and treated wood – all with non-toxic paint.
Circulation area
So that the children do not run against the equipment or in themselves, the parks must have at least 1.80m of circulation around each toy.
It is important to make sure there are no “traps” in which children may stumble, such as tree roots, log stumps, concrete edges, and sudden changes in floor elevation.
Falls
Falls are the leading cause of accidental hospitalization of children aged 1 to 14 years and can lead to serious consequences, such as head injuries. According to studies of the NGO Safe Child the risk of injury is four times higher if the child falls from a toy over 1.5m.
It is estimated that at least 90% of these injuries could be avoided with prevention and adult supervision while children play.
Supervision of adults
The best prevention against accidents in parks is the supervision of adults – parents, monitors, nannies. Know the following attitudes of prevention that can be adopted to help prevent child injury:
Make sure the toys are in good condition and fit the child’s age.
Observe if the floor shows absorption for the fall, such as grass and sand.
Ensure that when riding a bicycle, roller skates or skateboard, wear appropriate clothing and appropriate protection, such as a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads.
Orient the child as to the limits on the use of each toy.
Avoid using equipment that is not in good repair.
Be aware of what your child is doing and, if possible, help with all activities.
See more Standard rules:
The playground should be separated into areas according to the children’s age range.
The protruding screw threads must have protective finishes.
The corners of the toys have to be rounded.
Wooden playgrounds should have a smooth finish, free of splinters or barbs.
To discourage children from running within the area of the swings’ path, it is necessary to install safety barriers around the toys.
Taking care of children’s safety is a responsibility of adults. Do your part and spread this idea and the guidelines above.
