Maintenance Inspection - Low Frequency Inspection Guide
Maintenance Inspection - Low Frequency Inspection Guide
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This photo shows the use of entrapment templates as opposed to the three dimensional probes.
The torso probe enters the opening and therefore requires further testing.
The head probe does not freely enter; therefore, this tic-tac-toe panel poses a head entrapment hazard and should be corrected.
a) Test all completely bound openings that measure between 3.5 and 9 inches. An opening where safety surfacing is the lowest boundary is not considered a hazard and is not tested. b) Insert the torso probe/template into the opening as shown in the photograph. If the torso probe/template does not enter the opening, then the opening is compliant and it does not need to be checked further. If the torso probe/template goes into the opening to a depth of four inches, then the opening is considered accessible to a child and the opening must be checked using the head probe/template to determine if an entrapment hazard is present. c) Insert the head probe/template into any opening that allowed the torso probe/ template to enter. If the head probe/template will freely pass through the opening, no head entrapment hazard is present. If the head probe will not enter and exit the opening freely, the opening is considered a head entrapment hazard. If a head entrapment hazard exists, it should be corrected immediately. The degree of severity of the hazard will be determined by the likelihood that a child can get into
the opening and the height of the opening above the ground. Higher openings where it is unlikely the entrapped child’s feet will contact the ground pose a greater risk. If you are uncertain whether or not a head entrapment hazard exists, close off the opening and take the equipment out of service until a CPSI and/or the manufacturer can be contacted to evaluate. 7. Check the cleanliness and sanitation of the play environment. Serious health hazards can be created by animal feces, bodily fluids, and bird droppings. Also, check regularly for the presence of pests, like insects and vermin, and remove them and their nests from play areas.
Areas that can possibly cause head entrapment are below a barrier, between the vertical bars of a barrier, and an angle less than 55 degrees on a fort. (Source: CPSC)
6. Check for head entrapment hazards. Head entrapment and a resulting strangulation hazard can occur when children enter an opening feet first with only their legs and torso passing through the opening. Completely bound openings that measure between 3.5 inches and 9 inches must be considered for head entrapment. If the equipment was installed correctly and audited after installation, there should not be entrapment hazards unless the equipment shifts or receives improper repairs. Head entrapment probes and templates are available for purchase from your playground manufacturer and the NRPA as part of an
inspection tool kit. There are two probes/ templates: a torso probe/template and a head probe/template. The probe is three dimensional and may be easier to use because the user does not need to measure the depth of the opening. Templates are two dimensional and may be used in place of probes as long as the user ensures that the template has entered the opening to a depth of 4 inches. It is possible to make your own templates using the dimensions outlined in the CPSC Handbook for Public Playground Safety, but when making your own templates, make certain that the final product is accurate.
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Preserving the Play Environment • Promoting the Value of Play • Protecting Children
Preserving the Play Environment • Promoting the Value of Play • Protecting Children
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