Maintenance Inspection - Low Frequency Inspection Guide
Maintenance Inspection - Low Frequency Inspection Guide
Inspection of Protective Surfacing
Unitary Surfacing Materials Unitary products include poured-in-place rubber (rubber particles bound with a liquid urethane), rubber tiles, bonded rubber, and synthetic turf. Unitary surfacing does not require raking, decompressing, or replenishment; however, it may require sanitization or maintenance due to surface debris, vandalism, movement in the tiles, erosion, poor drainage, or worn areas that result from repeated impacts. When unitary surfacing is in need of repair, it should be done immediately as per supplier’s instructions. Always consult the manufacturer before applying any chemicals or before pressure washing. Making a Purchasing Decision The generally lower initial cost of purchasing loose- fill surfacing materials should be weighed against
the predictable cost of maintaining it and topping it off regularly. Taking the maintenance costs into account, purchasing unitary materials may be more economical for your school or agency in the long term. The greatest benefits of unitary materials are the ease of maintenance, predictable cushioning properties, and that the material stays in place. The disadvantages are the generally higher initial cost and the eventual loss of cushioning properties over time. Most unitary materials require a base of compressed stone or concrete/asphalt. The cost of this base should be considered in the overall cost analysis of the surface system. (See your manufacturer’s warranty information for the predicted product life.)
This section of the sample Low Frequency Inspection form applies to specific types of surfacing. All categories may not apply depending upon the type of surfacing on your school or agency’s playground.
The concrete edge of this wear mat is exposed.
The bench is improperly placed in the use zone.
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Types of Unitary Surfacing Materials
Surfaces should drain properly to prevent hazardous conditions caused by erosion and other forces. In the photo above, erosion has broken down the surface and exposed the concrete footing.
Uprights usually have markers to indicate proper surfacing depth.
Rubber Tiles
Poured-in-Place
This poured-in-place surfacing requires repairs.
1. Check that loose-fill surfacing is level and the proper depth. Because loose-fill materials get kicked out and ruts develop in high impact areas, all loose-fill materials must be regularly raked level. Similarly, loose-fill materials must be replenished when the surface level drops below the minimum level required for the height of the equipment in the area. Sand and pea stone must be turned regularly to reduce compaction and the formation of hardpan. 2. Check that the use zones (areas with protective surfacing) are clear of obstacles and debris. Toys, site furnishings, and other objects should not be in the use zones. These items and other debris must be removed because they can block fall paths to the safety surfacing, endangering children. In Photo 2 the bench has been pulled into the use zone.
3. Check that the surfacing material drains well and is not holding water. Standing water can cause moss or mold growth, possible slip hazards, and erosion of the subsurface of unitary materials creating depressions and possible trip hazards. 4. Check that wear mats are properly secured in place and level. There should not be any hardware or concrete footing visible on or around the wear mat. 5. Check that unitary surfaces are intact, free from depressions, ruts, and worn areas. Look for general wear-and-tear of the unitary materials, paying special attention to high impact areas like swings and slide exits. Rubber surfacing can be tested to ensure it is still meeting impact attenuation standards.
Recycled Bonded Rubber
Synthetic Turf
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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