While the Thompson v. Lamplight Village case is clearly an
extreme example of the worst-case scenario for playground
equipment in community associations, it does highlight the need to
ensure that proper protections are in place. The question becomes,
what should managers and their boards take into consideration
when it comes to maintaining a safe environment at community
playgrounds?
State and Federal Requirements and Regulations
It is important to understand and follow local, state and federal
regulations for playgrounds. In California, as set forth by Health and
Safety Code section 11525-115735), playgrounds are to conform to the
standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials as
well as the guidelines set by the United States Consumer Product
Safety Commission.
ground. To minimize injury and
exposure, it is very important
to make certain to use proper
surface materials to lessen
the impact of falls when they
inevitably happen. The U.S.
Consumer Product Safety
Commission specifies the
following acceptable loose-fill
options, when installed at the
proper depth:
• Wood mulch
• Pea gravel
• Sand
• Gym mats
• Shredded / recycled
rubber mulch
Safe Surfaces
According to the United States Consumer Product Safety
Commission, most injuries that children sustain while at
playgrounds is when the child falls from the equipment onto the
SPECIALIZING IN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION INSURANCE
Master Policies | Earthquake | Directors and Officers | Fidelity | Workers’ Compensation
Patrick Prendiville, CIRMS
www.HOAville.com | (619) 649-8069
[email protected] | License #0E02075
/cai.sd
/in/caisandiego WWW.CAI-SD.ORG
|
35