In order to verify that the surfaces of a playground are adequate to absorb possible falls from the equipment installed above it, we shall use the standard
EN 1177:2018+AC:2019, method 2.
This verification should be performed
before opening to the public and
repeated over the years.
CATAS has been accredited for the execution of tests according to this European standard for some years.
This standard describes two methods to evaluate playground surfaces:
- Method 1 (in the laboratory and on site)
- Method 2 (on site)
Below you find a short explanation of the two methods:
Method 1 It is used to determine the
maximum free height from which it is possible to fall receiving the correct attenuation. It is performed in most cases
in the laboratory, although there are cases where it can be performed
on site, as in the case of surfaces that combine synthetic material with natural material (sand, ground with grass). 9 different impact positions, with at least 4 impacts each are requested and the minimum test area shall be 1 m2.
Method 2It is
only performed
on site. It is used to determine whether the park surface is suitable for fall from the equipment installed above it. It is a verification refers only to that playground, at that specific time. The weather conditions, which are recorded, in fact, can modify the results. One or more impact are requested (depending on the size of the area and the type of equipment) from the same fall height of the equipment. The HIC (Head Injury Criterion) and gmax (peak acceleration) values of each single drop are recorded. The HIC value shall be less than 1000 and gmax less than 200. These values are the limit to avoid serious damage during a fall; in fact this is the definition of
HIC given by the legislation:
it is the measure of the severity of a head injury that could result from an impact.
At the time being CATAS carried out many laboratory tests on different types of surfaces: rubber tiles, rubber surfaces, surfaces composed by layers of different materials.
We have also carried out on-site tests on playgrounds installed in Italian municipalities for some years: we have not always had positive results.
Time, usage and atmospheric agents modify the characteristics of the surfaces and make them no longer suitable for absorb the falls.
CATAS would like to raise awareness that
periodic checks should be carried out regolarly: it is important that these places of recreation and entertainment for our children are safe and checked.
For info:Arianna Visintin
0432 747233
visintin@catas.com
