Playground - Applications of fall protection floors

Fall protection flooring is a central component of safety measures on playgrounds, particularly public ones, to minimize injury risks from falls. Correct selection, placement, and installation are essential for the safety of playing children. Below is a detailed discussion of application areas and relevant aspects:

Applications of Fall Protection Flooring on Playgrounds

1. Beneath Play Equipment with Fall Heights

Fall protection flooring is primarily installed under play equipment with potential fall heights. The general rule: the higher the equipment, the thicker or more shock-absorbent the flooring needs to be. Relevant equipment includes:

  • Swings: Especially beneath swing seats and in impact areas, fall protection flooring is indispensable due to the high kinetic forces caused by swinging.
  • Slides: The landing area of slides requires fall protection material to ensure a safe transition from the equipment to the ground.
  • Climbing Frames: Since falls from significant heights are possible, shock-absorbing surfaces are mandatory under and around climbing structures.
  • Seesaws: Fall protection flooring ensures children don’t hit hard surfaces in case of a fall.
  • Climbing Walls: Particularly under bouldering walls or vertical climbs, fall protection is essential.

2. Around Movable and Dynamic Play Equipment

Fall protection flooring is also used around movable equipment with unpredictable dynamics:

  • Carousels: The rotating motion poses risks, making fall protection areas crucial to minimize injuries.
  • Zip Lines: Especially in landing zones, fall protection flooring is essential to absorb impact.

3. Balancing Devices and Low Play Structures

Even with equipment featuring low fall heights, fall protection flooring can be beneficial:

  • Balance Beams and Ropes: Although close to the ground, falls can still result in bruises or scrapes.
  • Bouncing and Spring Devices: Fall protection around these reduces injury risks from missteps.

4. Transitional Areas

In addition to direct fall zones, edge and transitional areas should also be secured:

  • Access Points to Play Equipment: Non-slip and shock-absorbing flooring at entry points, such as climbing frames or towers, enhances safety.
  • Surrounding Zones: Safety areas around play equipment should be equipped with fall protection flooring according to DIN EN 1176 and DIN EN 1177 standards to provide sufficient protection during lateral falls.

5. Creative and Aesthetic Areas

Modern fall protection flooring combines safety with playfulness and creativity:

  • Thematic Designs: Colored and shaped flooring can reinforce playground themes (e.g., road patterns for traffic play areas or animal motifs).
  • Play Areas Without Equipment: In spaces like ball game fields or open movement areas, fall protection materials reduce injury risks.

Materials for Fall Protection Flooring

  1. Fall Protection Mats

    • Known for shock-absorbing properties, durability, and weather resistance.
    • Ideal for heavily frequented playgrounds.

  2. Poured Surfaces (EPDM Flooring)

    • Seamless fall protection flooring poured on-site, allowing for custom designs.
    • Particularly suitable for themed or creative playgrounds.

  3. Sand and Gravel

    • Natural materials often used in digging and play areas.
    • Require regular maintenance to maintain shock-absorbing properties.

  4. Bark Mulch or Wood Chips

    • Eco-friendly options that need regular upkeep and refilling.

  5. Artificial Turf with Protective Underlay

    • An aesthetically pleasing option combining safety with visual appeal.

Standards and Guidelines

The installation of fall protection flooring is subject to strict regulations, particularly:

  • DIN EN 1176: Defines general requirements for playground equipment.
  • DIN EN 1177: Regulates the shock-absorbing properties of flooring materials and specifies required fall heights.

The size of the safety surface is calculated based on the maximum fall height and type of play equipment.

Maintenance and Care

Fall protection flooring requires regular inspections to maintain its protective function:

  • Damage Checks: Cracks or wear can compromise shock absorption.
  • Cleaning: For poured surfaces and rubber mats, dirt, leaves, and debris should be removed.
  • Refilling: Loose materials like sand or bark mulch need periodic replenishment.

Fall protection flooring is an indispensable part of any playground, significantly contributing to children's safety. Proper selection, professional installation, and continuous maintenance are essential to minimize injuries and preserve the playground's play value.