Play and Safety

Play allows children and young people to develop through a stimulating, challenging and controlled learning environment.  Encounting an element of risk is not only exciting but teaches the real consequences of risk taking.  Our play areas are designed to manage this risk at an acceptable level without taking the fun out of play.

European Standards BS EN 1176/EN 1177

These were introduced in January 1999 to replace British standards BS5696 and BS7188.  Equipment installed within the Borough is safety standard compliant although these are not a legal requirement but represent good practice.

Inspections

All our play sites are regularly inspected for wear and tear, vandalism, litter and graffiti.  They are formally inspected by our Environmental Rangers on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis depending upon their assessed risk.  Any required work is carried out by GYB Services.  GYB Services also carry out operational inspections of the structural and engineering aspect of the play equipment quarterly.   An external independent inspector provides a comprehensive annual inspection and risk assessment.

You can find out more about managing risk in play from the Play England website