CPSI Exam Course Manual 287 Questions with Verified Answers
Purpose of the CPSI Course? - CORRECT ANSWER For CPSI to be able to:
-IDENTIFY
... [Show More] hazards
-RANK hazards by injury potential
-APPLY knowledge to remove hazards and establish a system of inspections
(Page 11, CPSI Course Manual)
Desired outcome? - CORRECT ANSWER A CPSI is capable of establishing a system of REPAIR, RETROFIT, and REMOVAL of hazardous equipment and establishing a routine inspection system for their playground(s)
(Page 11, CPSI Course Manual)
How long is a CPSI certification valid after you pass the exam? - CORRECT ANSWER Three years
(Page 14, CPSI Course Manual)
Exam questions are taken from the following sources: - CORRECT ANSWER - The Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) Public Playground Safety Handbook
- The ASTM F1487 Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use
-ASTM F2223 Standard Guide for ASTM Standards on Playground Surfacing
-Playground Safety is No Accident
(Page 19, CPSI Course Manual)
ASTM - CORRECT ANSWER American Society for Testing and Materials International
ADA - CORRECT ANSWER Americans with Disabilities Act
-2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design
Entanglement - CORRECT ANSWER a piece of clothing or net/string wraps around the neck and causes strangulation
Entrapment - CORRECT ANSWER one part of the body can pass through an opening, but another cannot; head can go through, shoulders can't, can cause strangulation
Falls - CORRECT ANSWER usually onto the play surface, sometimes onto other equipment (impalement, etc)
Impact - CORRECT ANSWER something else falling on a child, loose play equipment or another child
IPEMA - CORRECT ANSWER International Play Equipment Manufacturer's Association
NPCAI - CORRECT ANSWER International Playground Contractor's Association
NEISS - CORRECT ANSWER National Electronic Injury Surveillance System
NRPA - CORRECT ANSWER National Recreation and Park Association
Pre-School Users - CORRECT ANSWER 2-5 years old
School-Age Users - CORRECT ANSWER 5-12 years old
CPSC - CORRECT ANSWER US Consumer Product Safety Commission
A comprehensive program of playground safety includes: - CORRECT ANSWER -Audits
-Inspections
-Maintenance
First piece of equipment recommended to be removed for safety reasons? - CORRECT ANSWER Giant Stride
First Edition of the CPSC Public Playground Safety Handbook? - CORRECT ANSWER 1981
Current Edition of the CPSC Public Playground Safety Handbook? - CORRECT ANSWER 2010
Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use - CORRECT ANSWER ASTM F1487-17
Major U.S. Organizations concerned with Playground Safety? - CORRECT ANSWER -NRPA
-IPEMA
-NPCAI
Impact Attenuation of Surface Materials within Use Zone of Play Equipment - CORRECT ANSWER ASTM F1292-17
Test Method for Accessibility on Safety Surfacing for Playgrounds - CORRECT ANSWER ASTM F1951
Guide for ASTM Standards on Playground Surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER ASTM F2223
Engineered Wood Fiber Safety Surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER ASTM F2075
Only State to mandate playground inspections? - CORRECT ANSWER CA
Enforcement of a legal _______ in all other states. - CORRECT ANSWER Standard of Care
Is there a Federal playground safety law for the entire US? - CORRECT ANSWER No
Section of 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design that identifies criteria for design, construction and alteration of public play areas - CORRECT ANSWER Section 1008
Standards and Guidelines for Hazard Identification come from: - CORRECT ANSWER - National Injury Data (NEISS)
-Industry Experience
-Risk Management and Litigation
-Anthropometrics
Function of a Play Environment is to help a child develop... - CORRECT ANSWER -Physically
-Cognitively
-Socially
-Emotionally
Target of ASTM Guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER Reduce life-threatening and debilitating injuries
Target of CPSC Guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER Create a safer environment for all children and contribute to the reduction of playground-related deaths and injuries
Number of Children through age of 12 in the U.S. in 2015 - CORRECT ANSWER 50.5 Million
Number of playground injuries (trips to the ER) from 2009-2014 - CORRECT ANSWER 243,200
Number of playground deaths from 2009-2014 - CORRECT ANSWER 34
Most common cause of injury on public playgrounds? - CORRECT ANSWER Falls
Percent of injuries caused by falls - CORRECT ANSWER 79%
Age group with highest percentage of injuries - CORRECT ANSWER Ages 5-9 (51%)
#1 Cause of Death and Seriously Debilitating Injury on Playgrounds - CORRECT ANSWER Entanglement
#2 Cause of Death and Seriously Debilitating Injury on Playgrounds - CORRECT ANSWER Falls
#3 Cause of Death and Seriously Debilitating Injury on Playgrounds - CORRECT ANSWER Head and Neck Entrapment
#4 Cause of Death and Seriously Debilitating Injury on Playgrounds - CORRECT ANSWER Impact
Factors that contribute to Public Playground Injuries - CORRECT ANSWER -improper use/poor supervision
-poor maintenance
-inappropriate design
-installation errors
-site planning issues
CPSI Program Vision is that all playgrounds will offer... - CORRECT ANSWER -accessible, safe and challenging environment to play
-age appropriate equipment and activities
-compliance with standards and guidelines
-children having fun!
Hazard priority level is based on three factors... - CORRECT ANSWER -Possibility
-Probability
-Consequence
Hazard Priority Scale - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Permanent disability, loss of life or body part
2. Serious injury
3. Minor Injury
4. Potential for injury very minimal
5. Existing condition is compliant
When do you need to rectify a Priority 1 hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER Immediately
When do you need to rectify a Priority 2 hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER As soon as possible
When do you need to rectify a Priority 3 hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER When time permits
When do you need to rectify a Priority 4 hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER If it worsens
When do you need to rectify a Priority 5 hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER No action needed
Which set of guidelines does the Hazard Identification Section come from? - CORRECT ANSWER ASTM F1487
Range of users covered by ASTM F1487 and CPSC? - CORRECT ANSWER 5th Percentile 2 year old - 95th percentile 12 year old
What types of equipment does ASTM F1487 exclude? - CORRECT ANSWER -Residential equipment
-Athletic equipment
-Contained play equipment
-Amusement Park equipment
-Fitness equipment for ages 13+
-Toys
ASTM F1487-17 Age Ranges - CORRECT ANSWER Pre-School Age (2-5)
School Age (5-12)
CPSC Age Ranges - CORRECT ANSWER Pre-School Age (2-5)
School Age (5-12)
Toddlers (6-23 months)
CPSC Guidelines for Good Playground Supervision - CORRECT ANSWER -Understand the basics of playground safety
-Be aware that not all equipment is appropriate for children of all ages
-Realize that pre-school children require greater supervision
-Look for posted signage
-Look for and report unsafe and unsanitary conditions
Equipment not recommended for Public Playgrounds - CORRECT ANSWER -Animal Swings
-Swinging gates and doors
-Trapeze bars
-Trampolines
-Free-swinging exercise rings
For overhead swinging rings the length of the chain must not exceed ____________. Overall length must not exceed ____________. - CORRECT ANSWER 7", 15"
CPSC 2010 - Play equipment not recommended for Pre-School (2-5) users - CORRECT ANSWER -Free-standing Arch Climbers
-Free-standing Flexible Climbers
-Fulcrum seesaws
-Parallel bars
CPSC 1997 - Play equipment not recommended for Pre-School (2-5) users - CORRECT ANSWER -Log Rolls
-Track Rides
-Vertical sliding poles
-Spiral Slides >360 degrees
CPSC General Playground Considerations - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Site Selection - travel patterns, well-drained
2. Sun Exposure/Shading - potential burn warnings
CPSC Playground Layout Guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Accessibility (surfacing ASTM F1951 compliant)
2. Age Separation
3. Sight Lines
4. Conflicting Activities (for fencing see ASTM F2049)
There must be no overhead obstructions within _______ above each designated play surface, use zone, and pivot point of swings. - CORRECT ANSWER 84"
For swings, the lowest edge of the roofline is ____________. - CORRECT ANSWER X+42" (X=distance from pivot point to surfacing)
Materials must have a record of _______________________. (ASTM) - CORRECT ANSWER durability
ASTM Materials: Wood - CORRECT ANSWER -Rot resistant or Treated
-Look for wood deterioration at or below the surface
Wood Treatment toxins to avoid: - CORRECT ANSWER -Creosote
-Pentachlorophenol
-Tributyl Tin Oxide
-Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA)
ASTM Materials: Metal - CORRECT ANSWER -Corrosion may begin with surface rust
-Advanced corrosion - thin, brittle, and full of holes
ASTM Materials: Plastic - CORRECT ANSWER -UV-weathered plastics can degrade or break
Sharp edges - CORRECT ANSWER -No sharp points or edges
-Open ends of tubing should have caps that cannot be removed without tools
Lead Paint - CORRECT ANSWER -Check equipment installed before 1978
-Encapsulate by painting
Fasteners - CORRECT ANSWER -Must be corrosion resistant or have a corrosion resistant coating
-Must not loosen or be removable without tools
-Must be self locking or have a means to prevent detachment
-Make sure collar secure pins are present
Moving components - CORRECT ANSWER -Check for wear at points of moving contact
-Check swing bushings
-Check S-Hooks at bearing contact points
Completely bounded Rigid Openings: Injury Potential - CORRECT ANSWER -possible strangulation due to head entrapment after feet-first entry into opening (Priority 1)
-users at risk: Pre-School age
-the higher the location, the greater possibility of serious injury
Completely bounded Rigid Openings: Testing Procedure - CORRECT ANSWER 1. First check if the torso probe goes through the opening, if so it is accessible - move on to next step
2. Next check if head probe goes through the opening, if not it is a head entrapment hazard
Torso probe - CORRECT ANSWER Dimensions based on 5th percentile 2 year old
Head probe - CORRECT ANSWER Dimensions based on 95th percentile 5 year old
Minimum insertion distance for testing probes - CORRECT ANSWER 4"
Completely bounded Non-Rigid Openings: Testing Procedure - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Repeat test for Completely Bounded Rigid openings
2. Add 50 lbs of force to push the probe through
Partially bounded Rigid Openings: Injury Potential - CORRECT ANSWER -possible strangulation due to head and neck entrapment (Priority 1)
-users at risk: Pre-School age
-the higher the location, the greater possibility of serious injury
Partially bounded Rigid Openings: Testing Procedure - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Use "A" portion of "fish probe" to determine if the opening is accessible, if so move on to next step
2. Use "B" portion to determine if the thickness of the enclosing sides or the location of the opening prevents it from being a hazard
When is a Partially bounded Opening a neck entrapment hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER -If the "A" portion of the "fish probe" touches the bottom of the partially bounded opening without touching both sides simultaneously, it is NOT a neck entrapment hazard (no further testing)
-If the "A" potion does touch both sides before touching the bottom, lower the "B" portion into the opening. If it can be fully inserted (3/4" below the top of the opening), it IS a neck entrapment hazard
Partially Bounded Opening Entrapment Exceptions: - CORRECT ANSWER -where contact with sides of the opening is less than 24" above the protective surfacing
-lower leg of opening is horizontal or pointed downward
Projections - CORRECT ANSWER a part of playground equipment that extends or juts out beyond the adjacent surface
Protrusions - CORRECT ANSWER projections that can spike, pierce or stab a child, enter an eye socket, or bruise an internal organ
Protrusion Hazards: Testing Procedure - CORRECT ANSWER -use four gauges to identify projections that are protrusion hazards
Smallest Projection Gauge - CORRECT ANSWER -1/2" inside diameter
-used to identify projections that could penetrate a child's skull at the temple region
Middle Projection Gauge - CORRECT ANSWER -1.5" inside diameter
-used to identify projections that could penetrate a child's brain through their eye socket
Largest Projection Gauge - CORRECT ANSWER -3" inside diameter
-used to identify projections that could bruise or rupture an internal organ
Washer-like Flat Gauge - CORRECT ANSWER used to check for protrusions on suspended components such as swings
How to Test Suspended Projections - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Determine the path of travel
2. Holding the 0.12" gauge vertically with its axis parallel to the plane of travel, test all projections on the front, underside and rear of the swing seat
3. If the projection passes through the face of the gauge, it is a protrusion hazard
How to test compound projections? - CORRECT ANSWER -Starting with the smallest gauge, place each gauge over the projection
-If any part of the projection extends beyond the face of the three gauges, the projection is a protrusion hazard
Entanglement Hazard - CORRECT ANSWER A projection that has the potential to catch a loose cord, hood or any other item around a child's neck
How to Test Entanglement Hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER test with 0.12" thick gauge
When to Test Entanglement Hazard? - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Must fit within the projection gauge
2. Must be above the horizontal plane
3. Must have perpendicular sides
4. Must extend > 0.12" from initial surface
Slide Non-Entanglement Zone - CORRECT ANSWER -21" on all sides in plan, 42" high down length of slide, 60" high at 14" wide transition platform
-projections greater than 0.12" are not allowed within this zone regardless of orientation
Slide Entanglement - CORRECT ANSWER -slides shall provide a continuous sliding surface and minimize likelihood of entanglements
-use professional judgment
Bolts as Entanglement Hazards - CORRECT ANSWER -more than 2 exposed bolt threads considered entanglement hazard
-inaccessible bolts (use large 3" dia. gauge to test accessibility) are not subject to protrusion tests
Projections that increase in size from their initial surface may be hazards - CORRECT ANSWER -Must fit inside one of the gauges (small, medium or large)
-If it extends greater than 0.12" (1/8", 3mm) it is an entanglement hazard
-Test with 1/8" drill bit or key stock
S-Hooks - CORRECT ANSWER -no portion of the closed end of an S-Hook may project beyond the upper loop
-lower loop may not overlap the side of the body of the hook
-check S-Hook gaps with a gap or feeler gauge, can be no greater than 0.04" (1mm), thickness of a dime
Field tools to test for Crush and Shear Hazards - CORRECT ANSWER Roller Slides - 0.19" (3/16", 5mm) diameter neoprene rod
Merry-Go-Rounds - 0.30" (5/16", 7.5mm) diameter neoprene rod
Common Crush/Shear - 0.62" (5/8", 15.7mm) diameter neoprene rod
Exemptions to Crush and Shear Criteria - CORRECT ANSWER - Chain and its method of attachment
- Attachment area of coil springs
- Area between top rail and swinging elements
- Area between lightweight moveable objects
Suspended Hazards - CORRECT ANSWER Not within 45 degree of horizontal unless it is...
84" above playing surface
Minimum of 1" wide
Should be brightly colored
Suspended Hazards: Not Permitted - CORRECT ANSWER - Free swinging ropes, cables or chains attached at one end only and more than 7" long
- Ropes , cables or chains securely anchored at both ends and capable of forming a loop with an interior perimeter of more then 5" (1.6" diameter)
- two or more ropes, cables or chains that overlap one another to form a possible strangulation hazard
Exemptions to Suspended Hazard Criteria - CORRECT ANSWER - Multiple suspended components
- Swing chain or cable
- Rope, chain or cable that is less than or equal to 7" long
- Climbing net structures
Five ways to access elevated platforms/structures (in order of difficulty): - CORRECT ANSWER 1. A ramp
2. A wide stairway
3. A step ladder
4. A vertical rung ladder
5. A flexible climber
Access Ramps - CORRECT ANSWER - Most effective means of providing wheelchair access
- Max. ramp slope = 1:12
- Max. ramp run without landing = 144"
- Min. width = 36"
- Landings min. diameter = 60"
Access stairways - CORRECT ANSWER - Handrails needed
- Stepped Platforms: 8" rise
- Transfer Platforms: 11-18" height
Access stepladders - CORRECT ANSWER - Handrails needed
- Tread depths vary based on age: "little feet need big treads"
Handrails - CORRECT ANSWER - Height between 22-38" from leading edge of step
- Children's fingers should wrap around at least 75%
- Rigid components: 0.95-1.55" diameter
- Flexible components: 0.62-1.55" diameter
Access arch climbers - CORRECT ANSWER - should not be the only means of access for 2-5 year olds
- should not connect to the structure above the platform
Access flexible components - CORRECT ANSWER - not sole means of access for 2-5 year olds
- anchored at top and bottom
- allow pre-school users to bring both feet to same level
- anchored beneath the min. required level of the protective surfacing
Designated Play Surface - CORRECT ANSWER An elevated surface for standing, walking, crawling, sitting or climbing, or a flat surface greater than 2"x2" having an angle less than 30° from horizontal
Guardrails - CORRECT ANSWER designed to prevent an inadvertent fall through an opening
Barriers - CORRECT ANSWER designed to prevent access and egress through an opening
Critical guardrail dimensions for ages 2-5 - CORRECT ANSWER Top surface of guardrail: greater than or equal to 29"
Lower edge of guardrail: less than or equal to 23"
Critical guardrail dimensions for ages 5-12 - CORRECT ANSWER Top surface of guardrail: greater than or equal to 38"
Lower edge of guardrail: less than or equal to 28"
Fall Prevention for Pre-School Users - CORRECT ANSWER Platform height less than or equal to 20": nothing
Platform height between 20-30": guardrail
Platform height greater than 30": protective barrier
Fall Prevention for School-Age Users - CORRECT ANSWER Platform height less than or equal to 30": nothing
Platform height between 30-48": guardrail
Platform height greater than 48": protective barrier
Maximum opening without a top horizontal guardrail - CORRECT ANSWER no greater than 15"
An access component is required between adjacent platforms when vertical height difference is: - CORRECT ANSWER - greater than 12" for ages 2-5
- greater than 18" for ages 5-12
Barriers on stairs - CORRECT ANSWER A step on a stairway that is 48" above the underlying surfacing must have a protective barrier instead of a handrail (only applies to the portion of the step above 48")
Guardrails and barriers on wheelchair accessible ramps - CORRECT ANSWER - same criteria as for guardrails and barriers on platforms
- protective barrier must have an additional continuous handrail on the inside of the barrier
- guardrail and barrier must come within 1" of the platform surface or have a 2" raised curb
Openings in platforms and between edge and railing on wheelchair accessible platforms - CORRECT ANSWER may not exceed 1/2" horizontally
Play elements that may contain a designated play surface, but do not require guardrails or barriers - CORRECT ANSWER Climbers, Balance Beams, Stepping Pods
Climbers - CORRECT ANSWER CPSC recommends that climbers have no climbing bars or other rigid structural components in the interior of the climber onto which a child could fall onto from 18" or higher
3D Climbing Net Structures - CORRECT ANSWER - No clear opening between flexible members with a vertical dimension greater than 72"
- Diameter of 18" in nets for ages 2-5
- Diameter of 20" in nets for ages 5-12
Upper Body Equipment - CORRECT ANSWER overhead device designed to support a child by the hands only (ages 4+)
Upper Body Equipment Examples - CORRECT ANSWER - Horizontal ladders
- Ring treks
- Chinning bars
Horizontal ladders: Max. Heights - CORRECT ANSWER - 60" for ages 2-5
- 84" for ages 5-12
- 54" for wheelchair users
Horizontal ladders: Max. Distance between Rungs - CORRECT ANSWER - less than or equal to 9" for all ages
- greater than or equal to 12" for ages 2-5 (must be parallel and evenly spaced)
- greater than or equal to 15" for ages 5-12
Upper Body Equipment Access - CORRECT ANSWER - When access is by rung: 8-10" from the access rung
- When access is by platform: 0-10" from the leading edge of the platform
Upper Body Equipment Rungs - CORRECT ANSWER - must have a diameter of .95-1.55"
- must not turn or rotate on their own axis
Swings - CORRECT ANSWER an element or seat suspended from an elevated support structure that allows users to move freely in one of more planes and possesses a pivot point greater than 24" when measured vertically from the top of the suspended element to the pivot point
Types of Swings - CORRECT ANSWER - Single Axis (To-Fro)
- Multiple Axis (Rotating)
- Combination (multiple motions consisting of a combination of single axis and/or multiple axis)
Swings: Guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER - Locate away from other play structures
- Not attached to a composite structure
- Support structure designed to discourage climbing with no designated play surfaces
- Hangers with bearings, bushings, or means of reducing friction/wear
- Suspended elements smoothly finished with blunt or rounded edges
Swings: Dynamic Impact Test - CORRECT ANSWER - Suspended elements shall not impart a peak acceleration greater than 100 G's and have a HIC score less than 500 HIC
- Manufacturer must designate the max. height of the pivot point at which suspended element meets the dynamic impact test requirements
Swing Bay Guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER - No more than 2 suspended elements are located within a swing bay
- Only one multiple occupancy suspended element shall be mounted within a swing bay
- Single-axis suspended components intended for a max. of two users are exempt
CPSC: belt seats used without adult assistance should be designed to accommodate no more than one user at a time
Single Axis Swings (To-Fro): Critical Swing Clearances - CORRECT ANSWER - 20" min. spacing between swing hangers
- under-seat clearances: open seats = 12"; enclosed seats = 24"
Single Axis Swings (To-Fro): Critical Swing Clearances - Chain - CORRECT ANSWER - Chain clearance dimensions are measured at a height of 60" above surfacing
- Measurements taken when seat is occupied
- Frame to first swing chain: 30" min. clearance
- Chains of adjacent swings: 24" min. clearance
Multiple Axis Swing Clearances - CORRECT ANSWER - bottom of seat to surfacing = 12" min.
- Clearance zone = Y+30" in all directions horizontally from the pivot point, then vertically to surfacing (Y=vertical distance from pivot point to top of seat)
Combination Swings - CORRECT ANSWER - Under-seat clearance = 12" min. open seats
- Clearance Zone = 30" min. between structure and suspended element
Balance Beams - Beam Height - CORRECT ANSWER 12" max. for ages 2-5
16" max. for ages 5-12
Sliding Poles - CORRECT ANSWER - Must extend 60" above platform
- Distance from platform: 18-20"
- Max. Pole diameter: 1.9"
- Not recommended for 2-5 year olds
Slide Types: - CORRECT ANSWER - Free-standing
- Attached
- Tube
- Spiral
- Embankment
Slide transition areas - CORRECT ANSWER - Must be at least 14" deep
- As wide as the slide chute at top entry
Slides - Means to channel the user into a seated position - CORRECT ANSWER - Hood
- Bar
- Panel
- Tube
- Other chute entry device
Slide sidewall critical dimensions - CORRECT ANSWER greater than or equal to 4" high
Slide bed widths - CORRECT ANSWER Ages 2-5: greater than or equal to 12"
Ages 5-12: greater than or equal to 16"
Slide - reduced gradient exit - CORRECT ANSWER Min. of 11", 10 degrees below horizontal
Slide chute slopes - CORRECT ANSWER - Must have an average slope of no more than 30 degrees, max. slope 50 degrees
- Height/Length ratio must not exceed 0.577
Slide Exit Heights - CORRECT ANSWER - Slides less than or equal to 48" elevation = 0-11"
- Slides greater than 48" elevation = 7-15"
Tube slide dimensions - CORRECT ANSWER Interior diameter = 23" min.
Roller slides - CORRECT ANSWER all general requirements for standard slides also apply to roller slides
Embankment slide (definition) - CORRECT ANSWER a slide that follows the ground contours with the bottom of the slide less than or equal to 12" above the ground surface
- shall exit onto a protective surfacing zone that is not part of the embankment
Two Slide Safety Zones - CORRECT ANSWER - Non-entanglement Zone
- Slide Clearance Zone
Slide Non-Entanglement Zone Guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER - free of entanglement hazards
- no protrusions
- begins at bottom of slide
- 60" high above the transition platform
Slide Clearance Zone - CORRECT ANSWER 60" above slide chute for entire length of the slide;
Free of obstructions, except:
- Hoods
- devices used to channel user into a seated position
- spiral slides
- tube slides
Spiral Slide Clearance Zone - CORRECT ANSWER - 21" on outside of spiral slide only (from inside of sidewall)
- 60" overhead does not apply
Vertical Rotating Equipment - CORRECT ANSWER - equipment that rotates around an axis which is greater than 45 degrees from horizontal
- hand support shall be provided
- sitting area shall be concave or tub-like
Vertical Rotating Equipment - dimensions - CORRECT ANSWER - difference between the minimum and maximum radii shall not exceed 2"
- equipment with max. dimension > 20" measured from the axis of rotation to the outermost perimeter shall have an approximately circular platform
Vertical Rotating Equipment - ground clearance - CORRECT ANSWER clearance between equipment and protective surfacing shall be between 2.38-3.5" or > 9" unless a protective skirt is provided
Max. Height for Merry-Go-round platforms (CPSC) - CORRECT ANSWER For 2-5 year olds: 14"
For 5-12 year olds: 18"
Rotating equipment shall have a _______ clear area free of structural components - CORRECT ANSWER 72"
Other vertical rotating equipment requirements - CORRECT ANSWER - Shall not oscillate
- Some rotating equipment requires a speed-limiting device
Vertical Rotating Equipment that is exempt from speed-limiting devices - CORRECT ANSWER - Equipment with a max. dimension of less than 20" measured from the axis of rotation to the outermost perimeter
- Equipment with a max. dimension of greater than 20" which has a 108" use zone
Horizontal Rotating Equipment - CORRECT ANSWER Equipment that rotates around an axis which is less than 45 degrees from horizontal
Horizontal Rotating Equipment Intended for Standing - CORRECT ANSWER - Needs handrails
- Hand gripping components are .95-1.55" in diameter
- 18" max. height
- Not recommended for 2-5 year olds
Fulcrum seesaws - max. seat height - CORRECT ANSWER 60"
Fulcrum seesaws - max. angle above horizontal - CORRECT ANSWER 25 degrees
Fulcrum seesaws - handholds - CORRECT ANSWER - handholds may not project beyond perimeter of the seat surface
- handholds may not twist or rotate
- must meet performance criteria
Fulcrum seesaws - other guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER - fulcrum must meet crush/shear criteria
- shock absorbing material embedded in protective surfacing beneath each end
- not recommended for 2-5 year olds
Spring-Centered Seesaws - CORRECT ANSWER Recommended for 2-5 year olds in place of fulcrum seesaws
Spring Rocking Equipment - Performance standards - CORRECT ANSWER - Hand gripping criteria
- protrusions
- head entrapment
- crush and shear
Spring Rocking Equipment - seat height - CORRECT ANSWER Min. height = 14"
Max. height = 28"
Stepping Forms - Diameters - CORRECT ANSWER Min = 10"
2-5 year olds: less than or equal to 20"
5-12 year olds: less than or equal to 30"
Stepping Forms - Hand Supports - CORRECT ANSWER Must be 22-38" above stepping surface
Stepping Forms - Stationary - CORRECT ANSWER - must be stationary for ages 2-5
- must be stationary if greater than 30"
Stepping Forms - Distance between - CORRECT ANSWER For ages 2-5: Less than or equal to 12"
For ages 5-12: Less than or equal to 18"
Track Rides - General Guidelines - CORRECT ANSWER - not recommended for ages 2-5
- must meet performance requirements for upper body components
- must meet requirements for hand gripping
- platforms are not required
Track Rides - When platforms are used - CORRECT ANSWER - Min. depth = 36"
- Min. width = 32"
- Max. height = 36"
Track Rides - Clearance from handgrip to surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER - 64" min.
- 78" max.
Track Rides - Clearances - CORRECT ANSWER - Adjacent tracks separated by 48" min.
- Unobstructed area along entire length of travel
Non-Traditional Play Equipment - Not covered by ASTM - CORRECT ANSWER - may not be declared non-compliant just because it is not specifically covered in the ASTM standard
- determine what the manufacturer calls it
- Apply the appropriate performance criteria
Non-Traditional Play Equipment - Performance Criteria - CORRECT ANSWER - ID all materials and apply durability requirements
- ID all components and apply the appropriate performance requirements (entrapment, protrusions, etc)
- Apply appropriate criteria based on use
Roofs that are an integral part of a play structure and... - CORRECT ANSWER - are less than 84" above the underlying designated playing surface shall contain no designated playing surfaces
- may be any angle provided that the roof line is greater than or equal to 84" above the underlying protective surfacing OR the pivot point of a swing
Signs and/or Labels - CORRECT ANSWER - Owner/Operator is responsible for posting signs / labels
- Owner/Operator is responsible for maintenance of signs / labels
- Manufacturer is responsible for advising owner of intended age range
- Signs/Labels shall be readily visible and alert the user to the hazard in time to take the appropriate action
- Signs/Labels may be placed on the equipment or be free-standing (out of the use zone)
- All play equipment shall have the manufacturer's identification
Signs and/or Labels - Information to be communicated to the user - CORRECT ANSWER - Age appropriateness
- Supervision recommendations
- Warning message regarding removal of helmets, drawstrings or accessories around the neck
- Warning message regarding hot play surfaces where applicable
- Warning message regarding the hazard of installing play equipment over hard surfaces, where applicable
Playground Protective Surfacing - Function - CORRECT ANSWER to reduce the severity of head injuries due to falls
ASTM F1292 - CORRECT ANSWER Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing Materials Within the Use Zone of Playground Equipment
ASTM F1951 - CORRECT ANSWER Standard Specification for Determination of Accessibility of Surface Systems Under and Around Playground Equipment
ASTM F2223 - CORRECT ANSWER Standard Guide for ASTM Standards on Playground Surfacing
Impact Attenuation - CORRECT ANSWER The ability of a surface to reduce and dissipate the energy of a falling body
Critical Height - CORRECT ANSWER the fall height below which a life-threatening head injury would not be expected to occur
Fall Height - CORRECT ANSWER the vertical distance between the highest designated play surface on a piece of equipment and the protective surfacing beneath it
Impact Attenuating Surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER Protective surface with impact absorption properties to minimize the likelihood of a life-threatening head injury
ASTM F1292 Test Method - CORRECT ANSWER Established an impact attenuation performance criteria for playground surfacing material, uses an instrumented head form
ASTM F1292 Testing Temperatures - CORRECT ANSWER 25 degrees, 72 degrees, 120 degrees
Lab tests should be requested from the manufacturer.... - CORRECT ANSWER - prior to purchase and installation
- prior to audit, so results are part of site documents
Lab Tests Provide __________. - CORRECT ANSWER Proof of critical height of material
Post installation field testing... - CORRECT ANSWER verifies compliance
Field Testing Protocol - CORRECT ANSWER - ID all play structures
- Locate 3 most adverse surface types at each
- Perform 3 drops at each spot
G-Max - CORRECT ANSWER The maximum acceleration of a missile (head) during impact
HIC (Head Injury Criteria) - CORRECT ANSWER a measure of the impact severity that combines both the time and energy of an impact
G-Max Threshold - CORRECT ANSWER 200 G's
HIC Benchmark - CORRECT ANSWER 1000 HIC
Critical Height - CORRECT ANSWER maximum height in full feet for a surfacing system that when tested in accordance with ASTM F1292, no value shall exceed 200 g-max or 1000 HIC
Fall Height of Play Equipment - CORRECT ANSWER vertical distance between the highest accessible designated play surface and the protective surfacing beneath it
Critical fall height must be _________________ the Fall height of the equipment. - CORRECT ANSWER Equal to or exceed
Pivot Point is 8' above surfacing, what is the fall height? - CORRECT ANSWER 8'
Fall Height : Vertical and Horizontal Rotating Equipment - CORRECT ANSWER Distance between highest designated play surface and surfacing
Fall Height : Seesaws - CORRECT ANSWER Maximum attainable height of any part to the protective surfacing
Fall Height : Swings - CORRECT ANSWER height of pivot point to the protective surfacing
Fall Height : Slides - CORRECT ANSWER height of transition platform to the protective surfacing
Fall Height : Embankment Slides - CORRECT ANSWER - fall height in the slide exit use zone is 40" min. (critical height of 4')
- Transition area and slide chute to the beginning of the exit region have no fall height requirements
Fall Height : Sliding Poles - CORRECT ANSWER 60" below the highest portion of the pole to the protective surfacing
Fall Height : 3D Climbing Nets - CORRECT ANSWER - highest distance of either the interior or exterior fall height
- min. fall height for structures higher than 72" is 72"
Exterior Fall Height - CORRECT ANSWER the distance from surfacing to the highest point at which a rigid rod contacts the climbing net structure when moved around the perimeter
Interior Fall Height - CORRECT ANSWER the distance from the surfacing to the highest member with a clear vertical path to the surfacing with a diameter of 18" (2-5) or 20" (5-12)
Ground Level play devices - CORRECT ANSWER used in a standing or seated position with both feet on the ground or surfacing, exempt from Protective Surfacing Requirements
Surface System - CORRECT ANSWER all materials that contribute to the impact absorption to minimize the likelihood of a life-threatening head injury
Loose Fill System - CORRECT ANSWER surface system consisting of small, independent, moveable particles
Unitary System - CORRECT ANSWER surface system consisting for one or more components bound together
Composite System - CORRECT ANSWER surface system including both loose-fill and unitary components
Examples of loose fill surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER - wood chips
- bark mulch
- sand
- pea stone
- engineered wood fiber
- shredded rubber fiber
Examples of unitary surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER - mats
- tile
- poured in place
- combination
Examples of composite surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER - stone drainage base
- geo textile fabric
- bags of recycled rubber
- loose rubber
- containment mat
Materials not acceptable for use as protective surfacing - CORRECT ANSWER - concrete
- asphalt
- grass
- packed earth
Critical Height of 6" of Shredded Rubber - CORRECT ANSWER 10'
Critical Height of 9" of Sand - CORRECT ANSWER 4'
Critical Height of 9" of Pea Gravel - CORRECT ANSWER 5'
Critical Height of 9" of Wood Mulch - CORRECT ANSWER 7'
Critical Height of 9" of Wood Chips - CORRECT ANSWER 10'
The area beneath and immediately adjacent to a play structure or equipment is... - CORRECT ANSWER - designated for unrestricted circulation around the equipment and on whose surface it is predicted that a user would land when falling or exiting the equipment
Use Zone Characteristics - CORRECT ANSWER - must meet ASTM F1292 criteria for critical height
- must meet ASTM F1487 criteria for placement under and around play equipment
- must meet ADA 2010 Accessibility standards criteria for ACCESSIBLE ROUTE OF TRAVEL
Children with Mobility Issues Need Safe... - CORRECT ANSWER - Approach routes to accessible structures
- Means to enter play structures
- Variety of integrated play events
Accessible Route of Travel - Measurements - CORRECT ANSWER - Clearance = 80" minimum
- Width = 60"
- Slope = 6.25% max. (1:16)
Accessible Route of Travel must meet... - CORRECT ANSWER - ASTM F1292 impact attenuation criteria when it overlaps with Use Zones
- ASTM F1951 wheelchair maneuverability and propulsion criteria
Wheelchair parking - CORRECT ANSWER provide wheelchair parking spaces adjacent to the transfer point, but out of the accessible route of travel
Use Zone for Stationary Equipment - Rule 1. - CORRECT ANSWER nothing can be closer than 72" from any play structure
Use Zone for Stationary Equipment - Rule 2. - CORRECT ANSWER some use zones can be overlapped
Complete Overlap of Use Zones Allowed - CORRECT ANSWER if both structures are less than or equal to 30" in height
Partial Overlap of Use Zones Allowed - CORRECT ANSWER If either structure is greater than 30", they may partially overlap to 108" apart
Situations where Use Zones CANNOT overlap - CORRECT ANSWER 1. Motion area of vertical rotating equipment with radius greater than 20"
2. Motion area of swings
3. Standing Rocking equipment
4. Exit region of slides
Adjacent swing support structures may overlap to ______. - CORRECT ANSWER 72" apart
Open Seat Single Axis Swings - Use Zone - CORRECT ANSWER Motion area of swings = 2X (X = the vertical distance from the protective surface to the pivot point)
Use Zones at end of swings may overlap with other equipment use zones with a min. of __________ between both structures. - CORRECT ANSWER 108"
Single Axis Swings with Fully Enclosed Seats (Baby Swings) - Use Zone - CORRECT ANSWER Motion area of swings = 2X or 2W (W = the vertical distance from the sitting surface to the pivot point
Multiple Axis Swings - Use Zone - CORRECT ANSWER Motion area = Y+72" (Y = the vertical distance from the top of the sitting surface to the pivot point)
Combination Swings - Use Zone - CORRECT ANSWER use zone boundary shall be composed of the individual use zones for single axis and multiple axis swings for the individual suspended elements
Rocking/Springing Equipment intended for sitting may overlap use zone for... - CORRECT ANSWER Other equipment with a designated play surface less than or equal to 30"
Standing Rocking Equipment - Use Zone - CORRECT ANSWER 84", no overlap with any other use zone
Free standing or Attached slides - side and rear use zone - CORRECT ANSWER 72" min, can be overlapped
Free standing or Attached slides - exit region use zone - CORRECT ANSWER 72" min - 95" max, cannot be overlapped
Free standing or Attached slides - between 72-96" high - CORRECT ANSWER use zone = X (X = highest point of the sliding surface)
Overlap of Slide Exit Clearance Zones is permitted for ______________. - CORRECT ANSWER Parallel and diverging slide bed paths
Single User Equipment - Use Zones - CORRECT ANSWER i.e. sand diggers, which require users to maintain contact with the ground have no use zone requirements
Functionally Linked Play Structures - CORRECT ANSWER a play structure that acts as a single unit in its physical form or sense of function, even if components are not physically linked
Distance between stepping surfaces on two functionally linked play structures shall not be... - CORRECT ANSWER Ages 2-5: greater than 12"
Ages 5-12: greater than 18"
Composite Play Structure - CORRECT ANSWER two or more play structures attached or play functionally linked
Composite Play Structure - Use Zone - CORRECT ANSWER - 72" around perimeter
- Slide exit use zone = 72-96"
- Interior Open Space is not subject to 72" use zone requirements
Why manage risks? - CORRECT ANSWER - reduce loss of life and debilitating injury
- limit exposure to liability and control losses
- maintain the playground environment
- show good intent (PR)
Elements of a Comprehensive Playground Risk Management Plan - CORRECT ANSWER - Playground Safety Policy
- Leadership (Safety Coordinator)
- Documentation
- Safety Audit
- Inspections and Maintenance
Step 1: Formalize Safety Commitment - CORRECT ANSWER Adopt a playground safety policy approved by the governing board
Purpose of Playground Safety Policy - CORRECT ANSWER - Establish a Standard of Care
- Establish policies that can be attained 100% of the time
- Emphasize agency commitment to playground safety
- Compel provision of safety-related resources
- Provide authority to make playground-related safety decisions
- Minimize exposure to risk
Step 2: Leadership - CORRECT ANSWER Identify and appoint a Playground Safety Coordinator
Safety Coordinator Duties - CORRECT ANSWER - Emphasize agency's Standard of Care
- Facilitate agency's commitment to playground safety
- ID, assess and assign tasks and responsibilities
- Maintain continually-changing playground environments
- Ensure maintenance and inspections are completed appropriately
- Educate Board/Owner
- Be pro-active, not reactive
Step 3: Documentation - CORRECT ANSWER Need a procedure for documentation and record-keeping: general playground file, site history file for each playground
Useful documents - CORRECT ANSWER - scaled site plan
- itemized list of all playground equipment and surfacing
General Playground File Contents - CORRECT ANSWER - Playground Policy Statement
- Staff training documentation
- ADA 2010 Accessibility Standards
- CPSC Handbooks (1981-2010)
- ASTM Standards (1993-)
Site History File Contents - CORRECT ANSWER - Manufacturer's documents
- In-House Documents
Step 4: Safety Audit - CORRECT ANSWER - Examine play equipment, surfacing and signage using agency policies and procedures and current standards and guidelines in order to...
- ID non-compliant conditions
- ID compliant conditions
When to perform a safety audit? - CORRECT ANSWER Prior to opening a new playground, if conditions change, if playground have never been audited
Who should perform the safety audit? - CORRECT ANSWER A CPSI
Step 5: Inspections and Maintenance - CORRECT ANSWER to maintain the standard of care and ID new hazards resulting from changes due to wear, vandalism, breakage, storm damage, litter, other environmental concerns
______% of all playground injuries may be the result of failing to maintain the standard of care. - CORRECT ANSWER 40
Goals of Playground Inspections - CORRECT ANSWER Safety, Function, Aesthetics
Low Frequency Inspections - CORRECT ANSWER Seasonal, in-depth; focus on preventative maintenance
High Frequency Inspections - CORRECT ANSWER custodial, ID changes; focus on routine maintenance
Low Frequency Inspections - What to do - CORRECT ANSWER - Bring Site plan, equipment inventory, manufacturer's recommendations
- Use the equipment!
- Look for changes in the condition of equipment
Taking equipment out of service - CORRECT ANSWER Posting signage and fencing off equipment is the best way to take equipment out of service
What if an accident is reported? - CORRECT ANSWER - inspector should investigate
- contact legal counsel if injury is serious
- take pictures of the scene ASAP
- save broken equipment
- secure the area and take corrective action
- do not admit fault or guilt
- do not let fear of liability keep you from taking necessary corrective action
Benefits of a Comprehensive Playground Risk Management Program - CORRECT ANSWER - fewer playground injuries
- standard of care established and maintained
- more effective resource utilization
- staff that is informed and pro-active
- well maintained equipment and surfacing
- better public image and relations
- acceptable levels of risk exposure
- defense against charges of negligence [Show Less]