Maintenance Inspection - Low Frequency Inspection Guide
Maintenance Inspection - Low Frequency Inspection Guide
Swings and Moving Components
1. Check that swing chains or cables are not twisted and are free from excessive wear. • Check the links of the chain from top to bottom for kinks or wear, paying special attention to the links at the top of the chain and at the swing seat connection. • Unwrap swing chains if they are wrapped around the top rail of the swing structure, checking for deep wear. Purchase swing chain from a playground equipment manufacturer. Chain purchased from a hardware store can have a different hardness that is not suitable for playground use. 2. Check “S” Hooks and other types of fasteners for excessive wear and to make certain that they are closed. • Check frequently that “S” hooks are not worn more than 1/4 of their thickness, as seen in Photo 2. Always replace them with “S” hooks from a playground equipment vendor. Never reuse an “S” hook. Once it is closed and re- opened, its strength has been compromised. • All fasteners should be closed so that the opening is less than .04" as measured with an automotive feeler gauge. For perspective, a U.S. dime is approximately .04" thick. Never weld an “S” hook closed.
3. Check that all swing hangers are free from excessive wear and that the bushings are lubricated and in good condition. • Swing hangers and bushings should be checked frequently for signs of excessive wear. Because bushings are designed to wear out so that the cast swing hanger does not, make certain that the component that supports the swing chain has a bushing, bearings, or some other means of reducing the friction yet moves freely within the swing hanger. • Swing hangers should be securely fastened to the top rail so that they do not spin or rotate around the top rail unless designed to do so. 4. Check that swing seats are smooth, in good condition, and free from cuts or tears. Injuries can occur if swing seats break while in use. • Make certain that fasteners are not pulling through the swing seat material, the material is not cracked or torn impacting the integrity of the seat, and the edges and surfaces are rounded and smooth. • When a child jumps out of a swing seat while swinging, the seat may fly back into the path of a child on an adjacent swing and an exposed metal edge or rough, jagged vinyl may cut a child.
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This tire is cracking and should be replaced.
Ensure tire swing assemblies remain properly greased and in good condition.
It is important to check moving components frequently to ensure they are in good condition.
5. Check that tire swing seats are lightweight, smooth and rounded, and in good condition. • Tire swing seats must be less than 35 pounds. • Check to make certain that there are no exposed steel belts or sharp or rough edges. Look at the condition of the seat where the hardware comes through the tire to make certain that the rubber or plastic is not cracking. 6. Check that tire swing assemblies, including swivels and/or bearings, remain properly greased and are in good condition. 7. Check that all other moving components are in good condition, secure, and lubricated.
• Moving components may include, but are not limited to swing structures, track rides, trapeze ladders, trapeze rings, tire swings, upright twirling components, backhoe diggers, steering wheels, whirls/spinning rides, chain net climbers, panels with moving assemblies, spring riders, suspension bridges, pogo type bouncers, and see saws. • The integrity of the component and all its parts should be checked frequently and should be in good condition. • Moving components may come loose and should be checked frequently at the concrete footing or other anchor/attachment point. • Moving components should be greased or lubricated during inspection.
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Other
The “Other” section of the inspection form is an important place to add any other condition not listed above that should be noted. As an example, toys and found objects should not be brought onto the play structure, loose branches may fall into the play area. Correct and note these items in this section of the low frequency inspection form.
Swing chain should be unwrapped/ inspected and broken swing seat should be replaced.
Worn hardware poses a hazard.
This bushing (red) is worn and should be replaced.
This belt swing is tearing and should be replaced.
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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