Playground Maintenance
Playgrounds are places where children bring their dreams to life. While designed to stretch their imaginations and their capabilities, a playground should never put a child at risk of harm or injury. Therefore, it is essential that every playground meets Australian Playground Standards.
It is important to understand that the Standards are not a single and absolute requirement in risk assessment. The Standards are just one of the things that we must consider; they should not be the only tool used. The purpose of a detailed inspection is to weigh up the risks as they relate to the safety of the user and to determine what changes, if any, are required.
Children learn life skills through balancing and managing some risk in their play. We must acknowledge that a certain amount of risk in any playground is acceptable and even desirable, providing it is a low-level risk that is unlikely to cause serious harm or injury.
However, over time, even the safest playground is exposed to the elements and general wear and tear. This can result in playground damage and danger to those using it and this is why a regular program of playground maintenance is important.
Bespoke Playgrounds can manage your playground maintenance program for you. In consultation with you, we can schedule a program of maintenance visits and help you to keep your playground safe for play. Alternatively, you can contact us to complete any maintenance work that you may have, by sending your request to maintenance@bespokeplaygrounds.com.au.
Playground maintenance in Brisbane suburbs and surrounds
One of the reasons children love to play in playgrounds is because they take them out to our great outdoors. This also means playgrounds are exposed to the Queensland weather 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. And don’t forget the many pairs of small feet that tramp the boards daily! Even the most sturdy of playgrounds can deteriorate over time.
Playground maintenance is something you can manage on your own. We also acknowledge that not everyone has the time to do it properly or an eye for the potential dangers. Fasteners can loosen and plastic accessories, chains and ropes can deteriorate when temperatures are extreme. Edges that were once safe can become sharp. Wood can splinter and steel can rust if not properly maintained.
A well-maintained playground not only increases safety, it will stand the test of time much better than a playground that is not maintained. Importantly, by maintaining your playground will also ensure you meet your duty of care and responsibilities as the playground’s owner, and achieve compliance with relevant Australian Standards and any local codes or regulations.
At Bespoke Playgrounds, our playground maintenance service is focused on Brisbane and South East Queensland. We work with schools, kindergartens, child care centres, local councils and governments and help them to achieve safe play for everyone.