Play Equipment

Trampolines

Buy safety pads, or ensure that the model comes with safety pads that completely cover the springs, hooks and the frame.  The pad should be a contrasting colour to the mat.
Consider models that have safety netting as part of the design, or purchase a safety cage when you buy the trampoline this will reduce the chance of a child falling of the trampoline and striking the ground.
All commercial trampolines manufacturer from 2001should meet BS EN 13219: 2001 Trampolines.  However there is no similar standard for domestic, home and garden trampolines.
Choose a clear area, which is clear from hazards such as trees, fences, washing lines, poles or other equipment. Ideally there should be a safe fall zone completely around the trampoline of at least 2.5 metres.  This should also include bikes, skateboards and other toys that could be a hazard.
Place the trampoline on soft energy absorbing ground (ie soft and springy lawn or bark wood chip, sand or cushioning materials).
Never place the trampoline on a hard surface (ie concrete, hard packed mud) without some form of crash matting or safety netting.
Never use a ladder with the trampoline because it provides unsupervised access by small children.
Set rules for using the trampoline (see below) and discuss them with your children.
Tell children about the risks of not using the trampoline properly
Have children remove and jewellery, necklaces and clothing that may catch. Inspect the trampoline before each use to make there are no holes or the frame has not become damaged. Also check the padding is correctly and securely positioned and the leg braces are locked.
Never allow more than one person on the trampoline at the same time.
Children under 6 must only use trampolines designed for their age range and size, trampolines are not suitable for very young children and toddliers.
Always supervise children.
Never allow the use of bouncing to exit the trampoline.

Outdoor play equipment

• Is there a CE or GS mark on the equipment which indicates a degree of quality?
• Are full installation, maintenance and operating instructions included?
• Is there an indication of recommended age or use and durability?
• Is paint used non-toxic and low lead?
• Are all tube ends capped?
• Are there any protruding bolts or parts?
• Unless otherwise designated are items capable of being secured to the ground securely?
• Are all hand grips less than 40mm?
• Is information given on appropriate surfaces?

Swings

• Are seats impact absorbing?
• Are all ropes protected against wear at fixing points?
• Swing ropes should not be crossed in the middle
• Is the ground clearance at least 200mm?
• Are all ‘S’ hook fixings closed or capable of being closed?

Slides

• Are access ladders and steps securely fixed to the slide?
• Are the slide sides at least 64mm high?
• Are there guard sections and hand grips to the top of the slide to prevent falls?
• Is the end less than 300mm from the ground?

Roundabouts

• Are there no protrusions underneath?
• Does it rotate noiselessly and smoothly?
• Are there hand-grips for children to hold?

Climbing Frames

• Are hand grips less than 40mm diameter?
• Are any moving parts (i.e. ropes) fixed top and bottom to reduce movement?
• Is the frame less than 2m high?

Seesaws

• Are hand grips less than 40mm in diameter?
• Are there any protruding bars (i.e. hand grips should be loops)?
• Are there foot rests?

Combination Units

• Is there sufficient space between swinging units to avoid children striking each other?
• Are there less than three swinging items in a single bay?
• Do children have to go past a swinging item to access other play features?

Paddling Pools

• Do not let children use paddling pools unsupervised
• Follow instructions provided
• Empty pool and turn upside down when not in use and put away.

Large garden toys such as swings, etc, should be solid and sturdy.
Place them on the right type of ground is paramount to the child’s safety eg if garden toys are placed on grass it should be level ground, well-watered, away from other garden items such as washing line etc.
Check bolts, nuts and other fittings regularly.

Bikes
Always ensure I wear a safety helmet
Always get brakes, tyres, steering and lights regularly checked on bikes.  Ensure saddles are the right height for me and that I can touch the ground easily.

Skateboards/Skating
Always make sure I wear a safety helmet and elbow and knee and wrist guards.