Keys to Success in Park Safety Implementation

If you're considering designing a park or playground, you're diving deep into themes, equipment, and more. But making sure your outdoor space is a safe environment is paramount. At MRC, we prioritize implementing safety measures that adhere to regulations and provide a secure and enjoyable space for all. Let's dive into the specifics. 

The Importance of Safety at Playgrounds and Parks 

Safety is pivotal in any recreational space, especially in parks and playgrounds where children explore, learn, and grow through play. Here are some key reasons and ways to ensure safety:

• Preventing Injuries: Children are naturally curious and adventurous. They are at risk of falls, scrapes, and more severe injuries without proper safety measures.
• Inclusive Play: Safety ensures that children of all ages can explore, interact, and engage without fear.
• Community Trust: A safe playground or park is a trusted one. Parents and caregivers are more likely to let their children play if they know the area meets safety standards.
• Legal Compliance: Adhering to safety regulations protects children and shields you from potential legal repercussions.
• Longevity of the Park: Safety features like durable materials and proper surfacing contribute to its longevity, making it a long-term asset for the community.

Ensuring safety involves:

• Utilizing high-quality, durable safety surfacing.
• Looking for safety-first playground equipment certified by safety authorities that uses high-quality materials. 
• Conducting meticulous, regular inspections of all equipment.
• Guaranteeing accessibility and inclusivity for all children.
• Creating designated areas for different age groups, preventing kids under 5-years-old from using equipment not designed for them. 
• Strict adherence to all applicable safety standards and guidelines.
• Including shelters and shade structures to protect visitors from weather conditions. 
• Creating visibility in the park or playground so adults can monitor as their children play. 

Read More - Playground Safety Guide 

Success Stories of Safe Playgrounds and Parks

At MRC, we pride ourselves on creating fun and safe spaces. Let's take a tour through some of our most successful projects:

1. Fort Rock Park: This play system offers a treehouse feel and features engineered wood fiber safety surfacing and recycled plastic lumber throughout.
2. Mill Creek Park Upper Playground: Another treehouse-themed structure that comes with recycled plastic timbers and a natural synthetic turf for safety surfacing.
3. 15th Avenue Park: This park stands out for its poured-in-place rubber safety surfacing, offering aesthetic appeal and safety.
4. Bernie Cook Park: Designed with age-specific areas for 2 to 5 and 5 to 12-year-olds, this park's vibrant colors from the poured rubber safety surfacing are eye-catching. Plus, the large shelter in the middle offers an excellent respite for families.

For more examples, feel free to check out our gallery.

How to Stay Up on Safety Regulations

Staying on top of safety regulations is crucial for maintaining a secure playground and park environment. Here are some resources that can keep you in the loop and maintain your outdoor space: 

• The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers extensive guidelines on playground safety.
• ASTM International provides a plethora of playground safety standards.
• Local government websites for specific regional regulations and policies.
• Forums and groups that focus on playground safety to stay abreast of updates and discussions.
• Safety webinars and workshops that provide real-time updates and allow you to ask questions directly to experts. 

Innovative Safety Surfacing Technology to Consider 

The world of safety surfacing is ever-evolving, with new technologies emerging to make playgrounds safer and more enjoyable all around. Take a look at some examples: 

• Engineered Wood Fiber: A natural, cost-effective option that provides a natural aesthetic while financially prudent.
• Recycled Rubber Mulch: A durable, colorful option that provides excellent impact absorption and is crafted from 100% recycled rubber tire material.
• Poured in Place Rubber: This hybrid bi-layer system melds durability, accessibility, and design flexibility with top-tier safety ratings.
• Recycled Rubber Tiles: Offering many options, including standard and interlocking tiles, rubber tiles provide impact absorption, low maintenance, and accessibility.
• Synthetic Turf: A lush, low-maintenance synthetic grass surface with excellent impact absorption and efficient drainage.

Reach Out for Guidance on Safety

Safety in parks and playgrounds is an important responsibility that involves careful planning, regular updates, and innovative technologies. At MRC, we're committed to providing safety-first playground equipment and surfacing. If you want to create a safe and enjoyable outdoor space, don't hesitate to contact us for expert guidance.