The CPSC is currently updating Publication #325, ‘Handbook for Public Playground Safety." The ASTM has a revised standard for public Playgrounds and a new standard for Children Under 2. ASTM Playground Surfacing committees are working on Poured-In-Place Surfacing. To read the entire article, click here.

The revised CPSC document will be available for public comment prior to publication. It is anticipated that the revised document will be published in 2006. This handbook is being revised so that it is in closer harmony with the ASTM playground and surfacing standards. No topics currently covered in the "Handbook" will be dropped.

You can download a free copy of Publication #325. Go to the Playground Medic web site, "Links" page, CPSC link, Publications, Playground.

ASTM has recently published a new '05 version of F 1487, "Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment for Public Use." The main difference between the '01 version and the '05 version is that the details on accessibility, formerly found in Section 10 are now found throughout the standard. There are changes in Section 8, Equipment, that pertain to 8.7 Swinging Gates and Doors, 8.8 Merry Go Rounds (Whirls), 8.14, Roofs and a new section on 8.15 Stepping Forms. Several substantial changes have also been made in Section 9, Playground Layout with regard to Use Zones.

The new '05 F 1487 standard is now being used as the basis for Certified Playground Safety Inspector training by the National Playground Safety Institute. To get the full list of changes by Section number, click on ASTM F 1487.

A new ASTM standard for play equipment for children under 2, F 2373, has been published in '05. Research for this standard included playground injury data, and the size, strength and problem solving abilities of children under two. Click on ASTM F 2373 to get a summary of what is included in this new standard.

ASTM has four surfacing standards at the present time, F 1292-Impact Attenuation, F1951-Accessibility, F 2075-Engineered Wood Fiber and F2223-Selecting and Specifying Playground Surfacing. The first three standards deal with tests and measurements. The fourth, F2223, is a standard for designers and operators to use when selecting and specifying playground surfacing. It covers impact attenuation, accessibility and records.

The ASTM surfacing committee is currently working on a standard for Poured-in-Place surfacing. IPEMA (International Playground Equipment Manufacturers Association) is currently writing a third party certification process for Poured-in-Place surfacing. These items will affect the industry, not the consumer.

ASTM Standards are available at a fee. To get your copy, go to the Playground Medic web site, "Links" page, ASTM link, Standards and enter the number of the standard you wish to purchase.

The ADA-Access Board requirements for play areas are free on-line. Go to the Playground Medic web site, "Links " page, Access Board link and search by play guide. The Guide is called "Guide to ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Play Areas."

As additional changes become available, we will include them in our newsletter. For further information on Playground Regulations, contact us at the e-mail or phone listings below.