While kids will naturally take risks and sometimes fall while playing, the right safety surface can minimize the impact of those hard crashes. The right surface can also protect kids from debris and foreign objects. With this in mind, it’s important to understand what options are available when designing a playground.
Poured-in-place (PIP) is a unitary safety surface for playgrounds option that creates a smooth, uniform layer of shock-absorbing material. It’s a good choice for high-traffic areas because it doesn’t shift over time and there are no seams to create tripping hazards. PIP is designed to meet ADA and accessibility requirements as well as ASTM impact attenuation standards.
The Importance of Rubber Playground Surfacing for Child Safety”
Loose-fill surfacing materials such as engineered wood fiber and rubber mulch offer more variety in color and style. However, they may require more frequent maintenance and refills than other options because they are made up of small pieces that move around the ground. It is important to know that the depth of loose-fill surfacing needs to match the potential impact attenuation of your playground equipment.
Bonded rubber tiles are a popular choice because they provide a great look and come in multiple colors that can be mixed together to make fun patterns or designs. They are also easy to install and have a high level of accessibility. Like poured-in-place rubber, they are designed to meet ADA and accessibility requirements as it has a non-slip surface and can be easily cleaned up from oil from feet or gum and is odorless.