What is the hazardous opening range for head entrapment?
Between 3.5 inches and 9 inches (torso can pass but head cannot).
Which tools are used to test head entrapment hazards?
Torso probe and head probe.
What defines a protrusion hazard?
Any projection that can impale or lacerate, e.g., bolts with more than two exposed threads, open S-hooks.
What is an entanglement hazard?
When clothing, drawstrings, or items around the neck become caught on equipment (ropes, hooks, bolts).
Name two common crush/shear hazard locations.
Moving parts like seesaws, suspension points of swings.
What are common tripping hazards?
Exposed footings, abrupt surfacing changes, anchoring devices.
What is the difference between critical height and fall height?
Critical height = max fall height the surface can protect from life-threatening head injury; Fall height = highest designated play surface to ground.
Which ASTM standard covers impact attenuation for playground surfacing?
ASTM F1292 (lab) and ASTM F3313 (field).
Which surfaces are NOT acceptable under playground equipment?
Concrete, asphalt, grass, dirt.
What is the minimum depth for loose-fill surfacing such as wood chips?
9-12 inches (allowing for 25% compression over time).
Which ASTM covers Engineered Wood Fiber (EWF)?
ASTM F2075.
Which ASTM covers rubber mulch surfacing?
ASTM F3012.
Which ASTM covers accessibility of surfacing?
ASTM F1951.
What are the three main age groups defined in CPSC?
Toddlers: 6-23 months; Preschool: 2-5 years; School-age: 5-12 years.
What is a Use Zone?
The area under/around equipment where a child might fall or exit, requiring protective surfacing.
What must signage/labels indicate on playgrounds?
Age appropriateness and potential hazards.
What are common factors in playground layout design?
Accessibility, age separation, conflicting activities, sight lines, supervision.
What materials are NOT recommended due to toxicity?
CCA-treated wood mulch.
What factors affect inspection frequency?
Usage level, vandalism, climate.
What should be included in maintenance inspections?
Loose bolts, rust, corrosion, missing protective caps, displaced surfacing.
How should unsafe equipment be managed?
Tag out or remove from service until repaired.
What documents should be kept in a site history file?
Installation instructions, compliance certificates, inspection and maintenance records.
What is the purpose of injury reporting and investigation?
To identify hazards, prevent recurrence, and provide documentation.
What defines the ‘Standard of Care’ in playground safety?
Following CPSC and ASTM guidelines is considered reasonable care.