What To Inspect
The purpose of inspection is to detect safety hazards of equipment at an early stage that may cause accidents. And take appropriate measures to prevent accidents occurred.
Equipment Inspections can be carried out from the following material perspectives.
A: Metals
Deterioration of metals occurs when water infiltrates through the broken surface treatment (painting, etc.), causing the related portion of rust and corrode.
Furthermore, at the connection points between metal components, because of long time friction or vibration, the strength of metals will be lowered.
The inspection points of metal are summarized below.
①Confirmation of corrosion and deterioration
・ The root of the supportors (the part directly contact with the soil)
・ Parts where rainwater can easily collect
② Check for wear and deformation
・ Moving parts and swing parts
③ Loose or missing bolts or clamps confirmation
・ Particularly the part where withstand large structural forces
④ Check if there is damage and cracks in welded parts
B: Wood
Deterioration of wood includes decay, cracks and defects.
The inspection points of wood are summarized below.
①Confirmation of decay and deterioration
・ The root part of the supportors (the part directly contact with the soil)
・ Inside the crack
・ Connections between wood parts
・ Connections between wood parts and metal parts
②Confirmation of deformation (cracking, wear, etc.)
・ Wood Posts, stair and bridge, etc.
C: Plastic
Deterioration of plastic materials includes chipping, cracking, deformation and damage. In addition, plastic will be faded, cracked and strength also will be decreased due to ultraviolet rays.
The inspection points of plastics are summarized below.
① Check if there is any cracks, breakage, and holes
・ The part that the user directly touched
・ The part connect with bolts
②Confirmation of elasticity
・Synthetic rubbers that used as cushioning materials
D: Textiles (ropes, nets)
Deterioration of textiles includes fraying, disconnection, unraveling and stretching. It is sensitive to heat and may melt (burn) or break when exposed to fire.
The inspection points of textiles are summarized below.
① Confirmation of deformation (wear, fraying, disconnection, etc.)
・ Bundling part with other members and rope hanging part
・ Braided parts of net and rope
・ Connections between ropes and other component
② Check the exposure of the steel wires
You might understand the importance of checking the playground equipment, but Grounds Inspection is also equally important. The aspects to inspect include the following:
- Exposed stones, tree branches and other debris
- Problems with surfacing
- Tripping hazards like exposed tree roots
- Drainage function
With properly maintained, your community will be a better place for children and their families to play, learn, and grow. If you ever have any questions about your playground equipment, please feel free to call or email today!
