FAQ's
Why are playground inspections legally required in California?
California’s Health and Safety Code § 115725 mandates routine playground inspections for public facilities to prevent injuries. Schools, daycare centers, and parks must comply with ASTM/CPSC standards to avoid liability lawsuits and ensure federal funding eligibility.
How often should impact testing be done?
ASTM recommends annual impact testing, but high-traffic playgrounds or areas with loose-fill surfacing (e.g., wood chips) may need biannual checks. Extreme weather or vandalism can also necessitate extra tests.
What’s the biggest risk in outdated playgrounds?
Falls onto hard surfaces account for most severe injuries. Older playgrounds often have compacted mulch or cracked rubber tiles that fail impact tests, increasing concussion or fracture risks.
Can we do inspections in-house to save money?
While staff can perform daily visual checks, certified inspectors are trained to spot hidden hazards (e.g., rusted internal fasteners, entrapment zones). Third-party reports also hold more weight in litigation or insurance claims.
Do you inspect for ADA accessibility?
Yes! We evaluate ramp slopes, transfer points, and surfacing smoothness to ensure compliance with ADA Title III and CA Building Code (CBC) Chapter 11B.