Playground Standards have Changed
Are your playgrounds keeping up with the changes in ASTM Standards in 2021? People who have been coping with COVID-19 might not be aware that ASTM F1487 is about to publish a revision that will require written verification that installed structures and surfacing meet not only a manufacturer’s requirements but also the requirements of ASTM F1292. It is also required that maintenance be compliant with F1487 and F1292. It goes without saying that compliance with the ADA and CPSC Handbook is necessary where applicable.
In short, there is a greater awareness and focus on risk assessment. Risk requires a discussion of severity of injury and the likelihood of a hazardous event taking place. Although section 1.6.1 applies to structures not contemplated in F1487, the concept of risk assessment is becoming more mainstream as a result. The potential for falling from
higher and higher structures that will bring a higher frequency and severity of injury must be considered in purchasing decisions.
