Playground Accessibility: what does the research say?

December 8, 2015
playground

Playground Accessibility: what does the research say?

Is there really a perfect playground surface? Based on the studies, there is no perfect playground surface however you would be able to find the playground surface that fits best with your requirements and complies with the standards of the state. A study has been conducted in order to help those who want to find the right and appropriate ADA playgrounds for their child. The study or research helps customers purchase a long term playground, appropriate to their budgets, facilities, personnel resources and other expectations.

Creative Recreational Systems, Inc. has been committed in providing customers with playground equipment and surfacing that welcomes families and children with different abilities to enjoy and have fun. This manufacturer became much more committed in developing commercial playground equipment, which simply goes beyond just being accessible but a playground that is suitable for all.

In the 2010, ADA or known as the Americans with Disabilities Act had proposed standards for playground. The ADA playgrounds should comply with the standard accessible design requirement. All playgrounds should be constructed and designed in a way that the equipment is readily usable and accessible especially those with disabilities. And with that, Creative Recreational Systems, Inc. has been meeting the ADA playgrounds standards long before the standards have been released. Ever since, they are already creating playground components which address to those with physical disabilities including those with vision impairments, sensory disorders, autism, and many more.

So to ensure its accessibility, the playground surfacing should comply with the ASTM F 1951 Accessibility of Surface Systems Under and Around Playground Equipment. These standards are limited to playground surfacing such as rubber poured or rubber tiles poured-in-place or engineered wood fiber, which is why it is very important that when you purchase one, you can first consult them regarding the test data. The playground should have an accessible route of travel going to the play equipment.

Moreover, the ADA playgrounds are also expected to have accessible ground level play activities that are equal to one half of the total elevated play activities. With that, it only means that the playground would require an accessible surfacing route to and going around the activity. Every type of ground level play activity should be made accessible enough. If for instance there are 4 swings in the playground, at least 1 swing should be accessible and has a safe and appropriate accessible surfacing.

So when you are looking for a playground, make sure that it is not only appropriate to your budget, site and other preferences or expectations, it should also be certified ADA playgrounds. With this, you can have the assurance that you will enjoy and have fun with all the activities. Despite of the fact that the children are different from each other and they have different ways of entertaining themselves, it is important that it is accessible and usable enough.

Creative Recreational Systems, Inc. will help you choose ADA playgrounds. With them, you can have the assurance that all your expectations will be met and everything complies with the given standard.