Backyard Fun

Playing It Safe - Part 3: Inspection and Maintenance of Backyard Playground Equipment

By Trey Collier

Backyard playground safety is most assuredly a priority when we plan and install a backyard playground for the family and neighbors to enjoy. Just as important, though, is the attention we pay to playground safety over time. Playground safety should continue to be a priority for as long as the playground equipment is in use. Regular inspection and maintenance of the play area is essential for keeping the children who use our backyard playgrounds safe through years of active play. By following the guidelines for inspection and maintenance presented in this article, you can ensure the safety of your playground equipment, protective playground surface, and the surrounding area, and decrease the likelihood of injuries.

Playground Equipment

Over time, harsh weather conditions and active play can undermine the safety of backyard playground equipment. Frequent inspections of the playground equipment and the condition of each component will reduce the possibility that injuries will occur. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends the following steps for ensuring the safety of your backyard playground equipment:

• Check nuts and bolts twice a month and tighten as needed.
• Replace hardware that is worn or that has protrusions or projections.
• Oil moving metal parts as directed by the manufacturer.
• Check to make sure protective caps and plugs that cover bolt ends and ends of tubing are in place and tight. Inspect twice a month and replace as needed.
• Check the condition of the equipment, looking for signs of wear and tear such as broken or missing components, bent pipes or tubing, and splintering or decaying wooden surfaces.
• Check swing seats, ropes, chains, and cables monthly for deterioration and replace as needed.
• Clean, sand, and repaint rusted areas with a non-lead-based paint.

Print fact sheet - $5 Julie
As a single mum with a 5-year-old daughter, Julie Nielson is on a tight budget. Instead of buying expensive items, she
Coffee, It's Not All Bad
If you love coffee, Dr Rosemary Stanton has some good news. Studies now show that there are many benefits from drinking
Attracting Native Birds and Lawn Damage
Every week, parts of Burke's Backyard are filmed in Don's garden. It is a native garden, which includes many plants

We strive to provide only quality articles, so if there is a specific topic related to backyard that you would like us to cover, please contact us at any time.

And again, thank you to those contributing daily to our backyard playground website.