ASTM F1918-21

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:F1918 −21
Standard Safety Performance Specification for
Soft Contained Play Equipment
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1918; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.1 This safety performance specification provides safety
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
and performance standards for soft contained play equipment.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Its purpose is to reduce the potential for life-threatening and
debilitating injuries.
2. Referenced Documents
1.2 The range of users encompassed by this safety perfor-
th th 2.1 ASTM Standards:
mance specification is the 5 percentile 2 year old to the 95
E648Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-
percentile 12 year old.
Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
1.3 Public playground equipment, home playground
F1077Guide for Selection of Committee F16 Fastener
equipment, sports equipment, amusement rides, fitness equip-
Specifications (Withdrawn 2014)
ment not part of the play system, water-related attractions and
F1292Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing
devices,andtoysandjuvenileproductsarenotincludedinthis
Materials Within the Use Zone of Playground Equipment
specification.
F1487ConsumerSafetyPerformanceSpecificationforPlay-
ground Equipment for Public Use
1.4 This specification does not address accessibility, except
as it pertains to safety issues not covered in The Americans
2.2 Federal Standards:
With Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG).
16CFRPart1303BanofLead-ContainingPaintandCertain
Consumer Products Bearing Lead-Containing Paint
1.5 This safety performance specification includes the fol-
16 CFR 1500Hazardous Substances Act Regulations, in-
lowing sections:
cluding Sections:
Section
Title Number 1500.48 Technical Requirements for determining a Sharp
Point in Toys and other Articles Intended for Use by
Scope 1
Children Under 8 Years of Age.
Referenced Documents 2
Terminology 3 1500.49Technical Requirements for Determining a Sharp
General Requirements 4
Metal or Glass Edge in Toys and OtherArticles Intended
Materials and Manufacture 5
for Use by Children Under 8 Years of Age.
Performance Requirements 6
16CFRSection1501MethodforIdentifyingToysandOther
Requirements for Access/Egress 7
Equipment 8
Articles Intended for Use by Children Under 3 Years of
Areas Outside Equipment 9
Age Which Present Choking, Aspiration or Ingestion
Structural Integrity 10
Maintenance 11 Hazards Because of Small Parts
Fire Safety 12
Americans With Disabilities Act,Public Law 101–336:
Evacuation 13
28 CFR 35 Title II, Subtitle A
Figures Annex A1
28 CFR 36 Title III, Appendix A
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
36 CFR Part 1191Americans with DisabilitiesActAccessi-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
bility Guidelines (ADAAG)
This safety performance specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM
Committee F15 on Consumer Products and is the direct responsibility of Subcom-
mittee F15.36 on Soft-Contained Play Systems. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2021. Published September 2021. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1998. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as F1918–12 (2017). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/F1918-21. the ASTM website.
2 4
Moreinformationonfederalrequirementsforplayequipmentaccessibilitymay The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
be obtained from the Office of Technical and Information Services, Architectural www.astm.org.
and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, 1331 F Street, NW, Suite 1000, Code of Federal Regulations, available from U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, DC 20004-1111 or at www.access-board.gov/play/finalrule.htm. Washington, DC 20402.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1918−21
2.3 Other Standards: 3.1.15 fabric, solid, n—a coated or laminated closed weave
UL Standard 94Test for Flammability of Plastic Materials fabric.
for Parts, Devices, and Appliances
3.1.16 fall height, n—the vertical distance between a desig-
UL Standard 1975Fire Tests for Foamed Plastics Used for
nated play surface and the protective surfacing beneath it.
Decorative Purposes
3.1.17 flexible component, n—any part of the SCPE that
NFPA 101Life Safety Code
temporarily changes its shape when in use; examples include
NFPA701Standard Methods of FireTests for Flame Propa-
the tire net, the cargo net, and the log bridge.
gation of Textiles and Films
National Electrical Code (NEC) 3.1.18 netting, n—an open work fabric made of threads,
cords, or mono filament fibers woven or knotted together at
California Technical Bulletin 117
regular intervals.
3. Terminology
3.1.19 net, webbing, n—a lattice of webbing sewn or other-
wise affixed together at overlapping conjunctions.
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 accessible, adj—relating to a part or portion of the
3.1.20 partially bounded opening, n—any opening in SCPE
play system that is (1) capable of being contacted by any body
thatisnottotallyenclosedbyboundariesonallsidessothatthe
part,or(2)availabletoandusablebypersonswithdisabilities.
perimeter of the opening is discontinuous.
3.1.2 air filled device, n—a play activity which allows the
3.1.21 platform, n—a flat surface, intended for more than
user to bounce upon an inflated structure within soft contained
one user to stand upon, and upon which the user can move
play equipment.
freely.
3.1.3 alternative means of hand support, n—nettingorother
3.1.22 play area, n—a designated space intended for chil-
material that follows the path of access or egress, that, when
dren’s play.
grasped,providesbalanceandsupportinmaintainingaspecific
3.1.23 play opportunity, n—any piece of equipment in-
body posture.
tendedtogeneratespecificrecreationaland/orlearningactivity.
3.1.4 ball pool, n—any contained area with loose balls for
3.1.24 preventive maintenance, n—a planned program of
the purpose of play or transition.
inspections and maintenance intended to keep equipment
3.1.5 barrier, protective, n—an enclosing device that is
functioning properly and to forestall equipment failures.
intended to prevent both inadvertent and deliberate attempts to
3.1.25 projection, n—a condition which, due to its physical
pass through the device.
nature, must be tested to requirements of this standard to
3.1.6 climber, n—any component with the purpose of as-
determinewhetheritisaprotrusionoranentanglementhazard
cending or descending transition.
or both.
3.1.7 completely bounded non-rigid opening, n—any open-
3.1.26 protective surfacing, n—surfacing material(s) to be
ing in SCPE that is totally enclosed by flexible boundaries
used within the use zone of SCPE.
which can deform or deflect during normal use (for example,
3.1.27 protrusion, n—a projection which, when tested in
the openings in a flexible net or lattice of webbing).
accordancewithrequirementsofthisstandard,isfoundtobea
3.1.8 completely bounded opening, n—any opening in
hazard having the potential to cause serious bodily injury to a
SCPEthatistotallyenclosedbyboundariesonallsidessothat
user who impacts it.
the perimeter of the opening is continuous.
3.1.28 slide exit region, n—thelowerendofaslideintended
3.1.9 component, n—a part of a play system, any portion
to slow the user before exiting.
thereof that generates specific activity and does not stand
alone.
3.1.29 slide use zone, n—the area immediately adjacent to
accessible parts of the slide that is designated for circulation
3.1.10 containment wall, n—vertical part of the SCPE,
and on the surface of which a user would land when falling
usually made up of netting, mesh or paneling, which serves to
from or exiting the slide.
enclose the SCPE.
3.1.30 soft contained play, equipment (SCPE), n—a play
3.1.11 designated play surface, n—any elevated surface for
structure made up of one or more components where the user
standing, walking, sitting or climbing; or flat surface larger
enters a fully enclosed play environment that utilizes pliable
than2in.(50mm)wideby2in.(50mm)longhavinglessthan
material(s) (for example, plastic, netting, or fabric).
a 30° angle from horizontal.
3.1.31 stair, n—device having a slope of 50° or less from a
3.1.12 emergency access/egress pathway, n—a clear and
horizontal plane and consisting of a series of steps that can be
unencumberedpathwhichleadsdirectlyintooroutoftheplay
used for ascending and descending.
equipment in a continuous manner.
3.1.32 step, n—horizontal flat crosspiece of a ladder or of a
3.1.13 entanglement, n—a condition in which the user’s
stair used primarily as a foot support.
clothing or something around the user’s neck becomes caught
or entwined on a component of playground equipment.
3.1.33 upper body equipment, n—equipment intended to be
3.1.14 fabric, mesh, n—a woven fabric with a permeable grasped by the user’s hands and maneuvered upon using only
networkmadefrominterlacingthreadsormonofilamentfibers. the hands and arms.
F1918−21
3.1.34 webbing, n—a woven narrow gauge flat fabric. 6.2.1 Accessible Openings—A completely bounded rigid
opening is accessible when it is possible to insert the torso test
3.1.35 zone, non-use, n—locked or secured area around or
probe(seeFig.A1.1)intotheopeningtoadepthof4.0in.(100
underneath the play system where unauthorized access is not
mm) or more.
allowed.
6.2.1.1 Test Procedure for Completely Bounded Rigid
3.1.36 zone, use, n—the area immediately adjacent to all
Openings—Align the torso probe (see Fig. A1.1) so that the
external areas of the SCPE that is designated for circulation
plane of its base is parallel to the plane of the opening. Rotate
and on the surface of which a user would land when falling
the probe to its most adverse orientation (that is, major axis of
from or exiting the equipment.
the base of the probe parallel to the major axis of the opening)
and attempt to insert it in the opening. If it is possible to insert
4. General Requirements
thetorsoprobeintotheopeningtoadepthof4.0in.(100mm)
4.1 Playground equipment represented as complying with
or more, place the head probe (see Fig. A1.2) in the opening
this consumer safety performance specification shall meet all
with the plane of the base of the probe parallel to the plane of
applicable requirements specified herein.Anyone representing
theopening.Anopeningpassesthistestif(1)theopeningdoes
compliance with this specification shall keep such essential
not admit the torso probe when it is rotated to any orientation
records as are necessary to document any claim that the
about its own axis, or (2) the opening admits the torso probe
requirements within this specification have been met.
and also admits the head probe.An opening fails the test if the
opening admits the torso probe but does not admit the head
4.2 SCPEshouldbedesignedtoallownaturalaircirculation
probe.
and lines of visibility between users and persons supervising.
6.2.2 Nonrigid Completely Bounded Openings—Anonrigid
5. Materials and Manufacture opening such as may be found in but not limited to flexible
nets, tarps, and plastic enclosures is considered accessible if a
5.1 General Requirements—Soft contained play equipment
torsoprobewillpenetratetheopeningtoadepthof4.0in.(100
shall be manufactured and constructed only of materials that
mm)ormorewhentestedinaccordancewiththetestprocedure
have a demonstrated durability in the playground or similar
outlined in 6.2.2.1 (see Figs. A1.1 and A1.2 for probe dimen-
setting. Any new materials shall be documented or tested for
sions).
durability by the soft contained play equipment manufacturer.
6.2.2.1 Test Procedure for Completely Non-rigid Bounded
5.1.1 Regardless of the material or the treatment process
Openings—Align the torso probe (see Fig. A1.1) so that the
used, the manufacturer shall not utilize materials known to be
plane of its base is parallel to the plane of the opening. Rotate
hazardous (for example, lead, arsenic, creosote). All paints or
the probe to its most adverse orientation (that is, major axis of
similar finishes shall comply with 16 CFR Part 1303.
the base of the probe parallel to the major access of the
5.2 All fasteners used to construct soft contained play
opening).Apply a force 50 lbf (220 N) to the probe to attempt
equipment shall be manufactured in accordance with Guide
to pass it through the opening. If the base of the probe passes
F1077 and shall meet the requirements of Section 6.
throughtheopening,placethelargeheadprobeintheopening,
5.2.1 All fasteners, connecting, and covering devices shall
taperedendfirst,withtheplaneofitsbaseparalleltotheplane
be inherently corrosion resistant or be provided with a corro-
of the opening.Apply a force of 50 lbf (220 N) to the probe to
sion resistant coating.
attempt to pass it through the opening. A nonrigid opening
5.2.2 When installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
passesthetestif:(1)theopeningdoesnotallowthetorsoprobe
instructions, fasteners, connecting, and covering devices shall
to be inserted so deep that the opening admits the base of the
not loosen or be removable without the use of tools. Lock
probe when it is rotated to any orientation about its own axis,
washers, self-locking nuts, or other locking means shall be
or (2) the opening allows full passage of the torso probe and
provided for all fasteners to secure them from unintentional
alsoallowsthelargeheadprobetopasscompletelythrough.A
loosening. Hardware in moving joints shall also be secured
nonrigid opening fails the test if the opening allows full
against unintentional loosening.
passage of the torso probe but does not admit the large head
5.2.3 Connecting devices and hooks shall be subject to the
probe.
requirements of Section 6.
6.2.3 Angular Portions of Openings—Angles formed by the
surfaces of an opening (that is, adjacent surfaces or surfaces
6. Performance Requirements
that intersect when projected with a distance between surfaces
6.1 These requirements apply to the play equipment and do
greaterthan9.0in.(230mm))shouldbeatleast55°unlessone
not apply to nonuse zones.
of the conditions defined in 6.2.3.1 exists.
6.2 Head and Neck Entrapment—Softcontainedplayequip- 6.2.3.1 Exemptions to 6.2.3:
ment shall be designed and constructed or assembled so that (1) Inverted Angle of V Condition—Those V’s which are
any accessible opening shall meet the following performance inverted. A V is considered inverted if the lower adjacent leg
requirements to reduce the risk of head or neck entrapment by forming theVis horizontal or slopes downward from the apex
either a head first or feet first entry into the opening. Openings (see Fig. A1.3).
between the bottom edge of the equipment and the surface (2) Filled Apex Condition—V angles less than 55° where
directlybeneathit(thatis,thegroundorfloor)areexemptfrom theapexoftheangleisfilledtothepointthatwillnotallowthe
this requirement. headprobe(seeFig.A1.3)tocontactbothsurfacesoftheangle
F1918−21
simultaneously when the probe is rotated to any orientation it and contact the initial surface, and (2) the projection extends
about its own axis (see Fig. A1.3). perpendicular(65°)fromtheinitialsurfacemorethan0.12in.
(3 mm).
6.3 Sharp Points and Edges—There shall be no accessible
6.5.1.2 Slides shall be constructed in such a manner as to
sharp points or edges, on soft contained play equipment.
provide a smooth continuous sliding surface (roller slides
6.3.1 Sharp Points and Sharp Edges—All points and edges
exempted), with no gaps or spaces that might create an
on soft contained play equipment shall be tested for sharpness
entanglement hazard such as but not limited to the space
in accordance with the federal technical requirements in 16
createdbetweensidewallswhentwosingleslidesarecombined
CFR 1500 referenced in 2.2.
tocreateadoublewideslideorthepointwhereahoodattaches
6.3.2 Theexposedopenendsofalltubingnotrestingonthe
to the sidewalls of a slide.
ground, or otherwise covered, shall be provided with caps or
6.5.2 Projections from a Horizontal Plane—A projection
plugs that cannot be removed without the use of tools.
that meets all of the following three conditions is an entangle-
6.3.3 Suspended members, such as rings on upper body
ment hazard.
equipment and swing seats, shall have a minimum radius of
6.5.2.1 Theprojectionfitswithinanyofthethreeprotrusion
0.25 in. (6 mm) on corners and edges. This requirement does
gauges (see Fig. A1.4).
not apply to swing belt seats, straps, ropes, chains, connectors,
6.5.2.2 Itprojectsupwardsfromahorizontalplane(seeFig.
and other flexible components.
A1.9 (1) through (6) and Fig. A1.10).
6.3.4 Acut-offboltendprojectingbeyondthefaceofthenut
6.5.2.3 The projection extends greater than 0.12 in. (3 mm)
shall be free of burrs, sharp points, and sharp edges.
perpendicular (65°) to the plane of the initial surface (see Fig.
A1.9 (1) through (6) and Fig. A1.10).
6.4 Protrusions—There shall be no protrusions on the ac-
6.5.3 Exposed Bolt End Projections—Any accessible bolt
cessible portions of soft contained play equipment. Four
end projecting beyond the face of the nut more than two full
protrusion test gauges (shown in Fig. A1.4 and Fig. A1.5) are
threads is an entanglement hazard. A bolt end is inaccessible
required to determine whether projections are protrusions.
and not an entanglement hazard when it is not possible for any
Their use is described in this section.
ofthethreeprotrusiongauges(seeFig.A1.4)topassoveritor
6.4.1 Accessible Projections—Aprojection is not accessible
if the bolt end is recessed and the 3.5 in. (89 mm) OD
and is not a protrusion when it is recessed or located in such a
protrusiongauge(seeFig.A1.4)cannotbemadetocontactthe
manner that does not allow any of the protrusion gauges to be
bolt end when the outside curve of the gauge is placed flat
placedoverit.Anyoftheconditionsdescribedintheremainder
against the recessed area (see Fig. A1.11).
of this section constitutes a protrusion hazard.
6.5.4 Projections That Increase in Size—Anyprojectionthat
6.4.2 Determining Whether a Projection is a Protrusion—
fits within any of the three protrusion test gauges (see Fig.
Successively place each of three gauges (see Fig. A1.4) over
A1.4) and increases in size or diameter from the initial surface
each accessible projection (see Figs. A1.6 and A1.7). Deter-
to the outer end (see Fig.A1.9 (7)) is an entanglement hazard.
mine whether the projection extends beyond the face of any
6.5.5 Connecting Devices—Connecting devices such as but
gauge. The projection fails the test and is a protrusion if it
not limited to, S-hooks, pelican hooks, and C-hooks, when
extends beyond the face of any of the three gauges.
properly closed, are not entanglement hazards. These connec-
6.4.3 Suspended Member Protrusions—Test for this condi-
torsareconsideredclosedwhenthereisnogaporspacegreater
tionwiththesuspendedmemberinallpositionsofitsintended
than 0.04 in. (1 mm) when measured with a feeler gauge (see
travel. Place the suspended member protrusion gauge (see Fig.
Fig. A1.12 (1)).
A1.5),orientedvertically,overanyprojectionaccessibleatany
6.5.5.1 S-hook connectors are subject to the additional
pointthroughoutthepathoftravel.Anyprojectiononthefront
requirementsin1through3below,sincefailuretomeetanyof
or rear surface of suspended members of swing assemblies
the corresponding requirements will result in an entanglement
whichextendsbeyondthefaceofthetestgauge(seeFig.A1.5)
hazard.
is a protrusion.
(1) No portion of the closed end of an S-hook lower loop
shall project beyond the vertical boundary established by the
6.5 Entanglement—There shall be no accessible entangle-
upper loop (see Fig. A1.12 (2)).
ment hazards on soft contained play equipment. Three test
(2) An S-hook upper loop that completely overlaps the
gauges, a feeler gauge, and the means to accurately measure a
connector body shall not extend past the connector body (see
0.12 in. (3 mm) extension are required to determine whether
Fig.A1.12 (3)).An S-hook upper loop shall also be permitted
entanglement hazards exist.Any of the conditions described in
to align with or partially overlap with the connector body.
this section constitutes an entanglement hazard.
(3) An S-hook lower loop shall align with the connector
6.5.1 Slides—Slides, especially in their entrance areas, to-
body and not overlap it in any way (see Fig. A1.12 (4)).
gether with their means of attachment, pose a greater risk of
6.5.6 Windows in slides must be completely covered with a
entanglement than other play components. Therefore, the
transparent material. Windows and their means of attachment
following requirements apply to slides in the areas shown in
must meet the requirements of 6.4.
Fig. A1.8.
6.5.1.1 A projection that meets both of the following con- 6.6 Crush and Shear Points—There shall be no crush, or
ditions is an entanglement hazard: (1) The projection allows shear points caused by junctures of two components moving
one of the three protrusion gauges (see Fig.A1.4) to pass over relative to one another, or at an opening present at the junction
F1918−21
of a stationary support and a rigid supporting member for a 7.1.4.1 Continuous handrails or alternative means of hand
swinging element (for example, pendulum see saw and glide support shall be provided on both sides of stairways (see
rides) while the swinging elements are within their normal 7.2.1.3 for spiral stairways) and stepladders that have more
swinging angles. A crush or shear point is any point that than one tread.
entraps at one or more positions at 0.625 in. (16 mm) diameter
7.1.4.2 Stairways or stepladders which consist of only one
rod.
treadshallhavehandrailsoralternativemeansofhandsupport
6.6.1 To reduce the likelihood of unintentional contact with
on both sides.
a crush or shear point, an opening shall comply with either
7.1.4.3 Handrails or other means of hand support shall be
6.6.1.1 or 6.6.1.2.
available for use at the beginning of the first step.
6.6.1.1 Anopeningwithaminordimensionoflessthan1in.
7.1.4.4 Handrailsshallbebetween0.95and1.55in.(24and
(25 mm) is acceptable if a finger probe (as illustrated in Fig.
39 mm) in diameter or maximum cross section.
A1.13), when inserted point first into an opening, cannot be
7.1.4.5 Handrails or alternative means of hand support
made to touch any crush or shear point. The probe shall be
height (the vertical distance between the top front edge of a
applied in all possible articulated positions with an applicable
step or, if used on a ramp, the top of the ramp surface, and the
force not to exceed 1 lbf (4 N).
topsurfaceofthehandrailaboveit)shallbebetween22and38
6.6.1.2 An opening in an enclosure with a minor dimension
in. (560 and 970 mm).
of 1 in. (25 mm) or more, shall require that the crush or shear
point be located at a distance as specified in Table 1 from the 7.2 Other Means of Access:
plane of the opening.
7.2.1 Spiral Stairways:
7.2.1.1 Spiral stairways shall meet the general requirements
NOTE 1—An enclosure in this case covers a crush or shear point.
forspacing,orientation,drainage,treadwidth,andverticalrise
6.6.1.3 Exemptions to 6.6:
specified for stairway access in 7.1.1 through 7.1.3.
(1)Chain and its method of attachment, and
7.2.1.2 The depth of the outer edge of the tread on spiral
(2)The attachment of heavy duty coil springs to the body
stairwaysshallbe7.0in.(178mm)orgreateronequipmentfor
and base of rocking equipment.
children 2 through 5 years, and 8.0 in. (203 mm) or greater on
(3)The area between small lightweight moving parts
equipment for children 5 through 12 years. These depth
necessary as an integral part of the play activity (for example,
requirementsapplytospiralstairwayswithbothopenorclosed
abacus beads, bell clappers, telephone receivers) provided that
risers.
this area is not considered a crush or shear point.
7.2.1.3 Spiral stairways shall meet the requirements speci-
6.7 Rope,cable,orchainshallbefixedatbothendsandnot
fied for handrails in 7.1.4. However, when the design of the
be capable of being looped back on itself, creating an inside
stairway does not permit handrails on both sides of the
loop perimeter greater than 5 in.
stairway, a continuous handrail or alternative means of hand
support shall be provided along the outside perimeter of the
7. Requirements for Access/Egress
steps.
7.1 Rung Ladders, Stepladders, Stairways, and Ramps
7.2.2 Flexible Components:
(Does Not Address Wheelchair Use):
7.2.2.1 Flexible components used as access to other com-
7.1.1 Steps and rungs shall be evenly spaced within a
ponentsofequipmentshallbesecurelyconnectedatbothends.
tolerance of 60.25 in. (66.4 mm) and horizontal within a
When one end is connected to the ground, the anchoring
tolerance of 62°.
devices shall be beneath the base of the minimum required
7.1.2 Steps and rungs shall not trap water (that is, no
depth of the protective surfacing material.
standing water) and should not encourage the accumulation of
7.2.2.2 Connections between flexible components used as
debris.
access to other components of equipment shall be securely
7.1.3 See Table 2 for access slope, tread, rung, or ramp
fixed.
width, tread depth, ladder rung diameter, and vertical rise.
7.2.2.3 Flexible components used as access to other com-
7.1.4 Handrails:
ponents of equipment for use by 2 through 5 year olds shall
readily allow users to bring both feet to the same level before
TABLE 1 Minimum Acceptable Distance from an Opening to a
ascending to the next level.
Crush or Shear Point
A 7.3 Transition from Access to Platform:
Minimum Dimension of Opening, Minimum Distance from Opening
B
in. (mm)
to Part, in. (mm)
7.3.1 Onstairwaysandstepladders,thereshallbeacontinu-
1.0 (25) 6.5 (165)
ation of handrails from the access to the platform.
1.25 (32) 7.5 (190)
1.5 (38) 12.5 (320)
7.3.2 On accesses that do not have side handrails or alter-
1.875 (48) 15.5 (395)
native means of hand support such as rung ladders or flexible
2.125 (54) 17.5 (445)
More than 2.125 (54) and 30.0 (760) components,thereshallbealternativehand-grippingsupportto
less than 6.0 (150)
facilitate the transition to the platform.
A
See 6.6.1.2.
7.3.3 For rung ladders, flexible components, and arch
B
Between 1 and 2.5 in. (25 and 64 mm) interpolation is used to determine values
climbers,thesteppingsurfaceusedforfinalaccessshallnotbe
specified in the table.
above the designated play surface it serves.
F1918−21
TABLE 2 Rung Ladders, Stepladders, Stairways, and Ramps (Access Slope, Tread, Rung, and Ramp Width, Tread Depth,
Rung Diameter, and Vertical Rise, by Age of Intended User)
Age of Intended User, years
Type of Access
2 through 5 5 through 12 2 through 12
A
Rung Ladders:
Slope 75 to 90° 75 to 90° 75 to 90°
B
Total ladder width $12 in. (300 mm) $16 in. (410 mm) $16 in. (410 mm)
C C C
Vertical rise (top of rung to top of rung) #12 in. (300 mm) #12 in. (300 mm) #12 in. (300 mm)
Rung diameter 0.95 to 1.55 in. (24 to 39 mm) 0.95 to 1.55 in. (24 to 39 mm) 0.95 to 1.55 in. (24 to 39 mm)
Stepladders:
Slope 50 to 75° 50 to 75° 50 to 75°
Tread width:
Single file access 12 to 21 in. (300 to 530 mm) $16 in. (410 mm) 16 to 21 in. (410 to 530 mm)
A A
Two-abreast access $36 in. (910 mm)
Tread depth:
Open riser $7.0 in. (178 mm) $3.0 in. (76 mm) $7.0 in. (178 mm)
Closed riser $7.0 in. (178 mm) $6.0 in. (152 mm) $7.0 in. (178 mm)
C C C
Vertical rise (top of step to top of step) #9.0 in. (229 mm) #12.0 in. (305 mm) #9.0 in. (229 mm)
Stairways:
Slope <50° <50° <50°
Tread width:
Single file access $12 in. (300 mm) $16 in. (410 mm) $16 in. (410 mm)
Two-abreast access $30 in. (760 mm) $36 in. (910 mm) $36 in. (910 mm)
Tread depth:
Open riser $7.0 in. (178 mm) $8.0 in. (203 mm) $8.0 in. (203 mm)
Closed riser $7.0 in. (178 mm) $8.0 in. (203 mm) $8.0 in. (203 mm)
C C C
Vertical rise (top of step to top of step) #9.0 in. (229 mm) #12.0 in. (305 mm) #9.0 in. (229 mm)
Ramps (does not address wheelchair use)
Slope (vertical/horizontal) #1:8 #1:8 #1:8
Width:
Single file access $12.0 in. (300 mm) $16.0 in. (410 mm) $16.0 in. (410 mm)
Two-abreast access $30.0 in. (760 mm) $36.0 in. (910 mm) $36.0 in. (910 mm)
A
Not recommended as sole access for preschoolers.
B
Excluding side supports.
C
Entrapment provisions apply.
7.4 Platforms, Landings, Walkways, Ramps, and Similar openings (6.2.1.1) and as specified in the test procedure for
Transitional Play Surfaces: completely bounded nonrigid openings (6.2.2.1).
7.4.1 Platform surfaces shall be horizontal within a toler-
8.1.3 Differences in height between two consecutive desig-
ance of 62°.
natedplaysurfacesshallnotexceed24in.(610mm)unlessthe
7.4.2 Platforms, landings, walkways, ramps, and similar
lower designated play surface is made to conform to Specifi-
transitional play surfaces shall not trap water and should not
cation F1292 for impact attenuation.
encourage accumulation of debris.
8.1.4 Differences in height between two consecutive desig-
nated play surfaces shall not exceed 24 in. (610 mm) in
7.5 Access/Egress Accessibility:
locationswhereitispossibletoenterthelowerdesignatedplay
7.5.1 When an accessible entrance for disabled users is
surface from a passage blind to a user on the upper designated
provided, a means of egress shall also be provided.
play surface.
7.5.2 Allaccessibleentriesshallprovidewheelchairparking
spaces meeting the requirements of ADAAG. 8.1.5 Anyflexiblematerialordeviceinasoftcontainedplay
system that is able to be stretched by a force of 50 lbf (220 N)
7.5.3 All wheelchair parking spaces should be clear of
obstructions, and not overlap other access and egress use applied with the torso probe (as identified in Section 6) shall
not contact any hard object. Flexible portions of the soft
zones.
contained play equipment shall not be placed adjacent to
8. Equipment
potential impact hazards such as glass windows or furniture.
8.1.6 External Parts of SCPE:
8.1 General Equipment Requirements:
8.1.1 For parts of the SCPE which serve as a barrier 8.1.6.1 Accessible External Containment Walls:
between accessible and non-accessible areas of the SCPE, the (1)AccessibleexternalcontainmentwallsoftheSCPEwill
vertical distance between the lowest part of the SCPE and the have a minimum height of 84 in., when measured from the
surface beneath (that is, the ground, floor and resilient surfac- surface directly adjacent to the base of the SCPE. (See Fig.
ing) shall not exceed 4.0 in. A1.14.) If the height of the ceiling precludes this, the contain-
8.1.2 Users shall not be able to exit from the contained mentwalloftheSCPEshallextendtoaheightsuchthatthetop
equipment except at designated access and egress points. All of the external portion of the SCPE is 3.0in. or less from the
accessibleopeningsinthecontainedplayequipmentotherthan ceiling. If there is an elevated surface which has the potential
specifiedaccess/egresspointsshallnotadmitthetorsoprobeas to allow standing, walking, crawling, sitting, or climbing, or a
specified in the test procedure for completely bounded rigid flatsurfacelargerthan2in.wideby2in.longhavinglessthan
F1918−21
a 30° angle from horizontal (for example, slide exit, window (1)All accessible horizontal pipe located within 60 in. of
ledge) that is located at a distance of 28 in. or less from the any designated play surface and having 270° or more of the
containment wall of the SCPE, and at a height of 84in. or less pipe accessible shall have a padded or pliable cover. (See Fig.
above ground level, the minimum height of the containment A1.17.)
(2)Withinanyentrance/exit,sliderunout,orstepup/down
wall shall be 84in. above the highest portion of this elevated
surfaceand84in.aboveahorizontallineextending36in.from area,anyaccessibleoverheadhorizontalpipelocatedwithin60
in. of the edge of a designated play surface (for example,
eachedgeofhighestportionofthereferencedelevatedsurface
(see Fig.A1.14). If the height of the ceiling precludes this, the leading edge of a platform, change of elevation or the end of a
slideexit)andhaving180°ormoreofthepipeaccessibleshall
containmentwalloftheSCPEshallextendtoaheightsuchthat
have a padded or pliable cover. (See Fig. A1.18.)
the top of the external portion of the SCPE is 3.0 in. or less
from the ceiling.
NOTE 3—The area directly above the enclosed portion of a slide exit
(2)There shall be no openings in the containment wall
does not require padding.
84in. or less above the bottom of the containment wall that
8.2 Climbers and Upper Body Equipment:
admit the 0.50-in. diameter test probe (see Fig. A1.15)toa
8.2.1 Hard rungs that are used for hand grip shall be
depth greater than 0.75in.
between 0.95 in. and 1.55 in. (24 mm and 39 mm) in diameter.
(3)Thereshallbenoprojectionsfromthecontainmentwall
8.2.2 Padded rungs that are used for hand grip shall be
84in. or less above the bottom of the containment wall and
between 0.95 in. and 1.55 in. (24 mm and 39 mm) in diameter
greaterthan0.50in.inwidth(asmeasuredalongthetopofthe
when fully compressed.
projection)ordiameterthatextendmorethan0.75in.fromthe
8.2.3 Padded rungs that are used for hand grip shall be no
containment wall.
largerthan1.55in.(39mm)indiameterwhennotcompressed.
NOTE2—Anyprojectionsfromthecontainmentwallmustalsomeetthe
8.2.4 Allrungsusedforhandgrip,andanypaddingusedon
requirements of 6.4 on protrusions and 6.5 on entanglement.
them, shall not spin, rotate, or roll while in use.
(4)Openings between a gate (for example, to utility areas)
8.2.5 The center to center distance between rungs on upper
and the enclosure which surrounds the gate in external con-
body equipment with fixed handholds shall be no greater than
tainment walls are exempt from 8.1.6.1(2) with the following
15 in. (380 mm).
conditions: (a)thebottomoftheopeningatthebaseofthegate
8.2.6 The horizontal distance from the leading edge of the
is 6in. or less above the ground or floor, and (b) there are no
takeofforlandingstructureorboth,outtothecenterlineofthe
openings directly above hinges, latches, or other horizontal
firsthandholdofupperbodyequipmentshallbenogreaterthan
surfaces that admit 0.50-in. diameter test probe to a depth
10in.(250mm).Inaddition,wherethetakeofforlandingpoint
greater than 0.75in.
is provided by means of rungs, the horizontal distance to the
(5)Activity panels that are part of or affixed to external
first handhold shall be at least 8 in. but no greater than 10 in.
containment walls and which are extended for a user to
8.2.7 All handgrip devices on upper body equipment shall
maintain ground contact during play are exempt from
bebetween0.95in.(24mm)and1.55in.(39mm)indiameter.
8.1.6.1(2) and 8.1.6.1(3) if there are no openings in or
8.2.8 Climbers or chutes used as access shall provide a
projections from the containment wall 48in. or less above the
means of hand support for use while climbing.
top of the activity panel.
8.3 Sliding Poles:
8.1.6.2 Overhead Framework:
8.3.1 Sliding poles are not recommended in SCPE.
(1)Overhead horizontal pipes that are within 96 in. of the
8.4 Balance Beams:
underlying surfaces and having diameters of less than 5 in.
8.4.1 The top surface of balance beams shall be no greater
shallhavenomorethan270°ofthepipeexposed;orshallhave
than 12 in. (300 mm) above the underlying surface.
a vertical barrier panel that extends from the top of the
8.4.2 Support structures for balance beams shall not pose a
horizontal pipe to a minimum height of 96 in. above the
tripping hazard.
underlying surface.
(2)I-beam support structures within 96 in. of the underly-
8.5 Slides:
ing surface shall have no designated play surfaces and no
8.5.1 At the entrance to open bedway slides there shall be a
openingsthatwouldallowausertograspasectionofthebeam
means to channel the user into a sitting position (for example,
for support.
a hood or tube).
8.1.7 Pipe Covering:
8.5.2 Any change in the slope of a slide shall not allow a
8.1.7.1 Vertical Pipe Covering: user to lose contact with the sliding surface.
(1)When fabric mesh is used as a means of containment,
8.5.3 ForStraightSlidesOnly—Theheighttolengthratioof
paddedorpliablecoveringshallbeusedonallexposedvertical
the sliding surface shall not exceed 0.577 (30°) as measured in
pipes at entrance and exit areas and in all accessible areas Fig. A1.19.
where 270° or more of the pipe is exposed. (See Fig. A1.16.)
8.5.4 No span of the sliding surface shall have a slope that
(2)If other materials (for example, metal or plastic mesh,
exceeds 50°.
solid panels) are used as a means of containment, vertical pipe
8.5.5 The slide chute inside width shall be 12 in. (300 mm)
is not required to be covered.
or greater for 2 through 5-year-olds, or 16 in. (410 mm) or
8.1.7.2 Horizontal Pipe Covering: greater for 5 through 12-year-olds.
F1918−21
8.5.6 Slides with flat, open chutes shall have sidewalls with 8.7 Upholstery:
aheight4in.(100mm)orgreater,thatextendalongbothsides
8.7.1 Hardware, staples, or fastening devices used in the
of the chute for the entire length of the sliding surface.
construction of padding or upholstered constructions (assem-
8.5.7 Straight slides shall be permitted to have a chute with
blagesoffabrics,foams,andsubstrates)orboth,shallnothave
a circular, semicircular, or curved cross section, provided that
hidden sharp points or hazards when the surface of the pad or
theheightsofbothsidesare4in.(100mm)(y)whenmeasured
upholstered construction is fully compressed by a user.
at right angles above a horizontal line (x) that is 12 in. (300
8.8 Ball Pools:
mm) long when intended for 2 through 5-year-olds or 16 in.
8.8.1 There shall be no designated play surfaces in ball
(400 mm) long when intended for 5 through 12-year-olds (see
pools other than the floor of the ball pool itself, except at
Fig. A1.20).
designated access/egress points.
8.5.8 All slides with a curved path of travel shall minimize
the likelihood of lateral discharge (for example, spiral slides
8.9 Log Rolls:
andotherslidesthatchangeinhorizontaldirection;slideswith
8.9.1 Log rolls are not recommended for children under 5
a wide, shallow chute; and so forth).
years of age.
8.5.9 The internal diameter of tube slides shall be 23 in.
8.9.2 The highest point of the top surface of the roller shall
(580 mm) or greater.
be no greater than 18 in. (460 mm) above the underlying
8.5.10 Roller Slides Shall Meet the Following Criteria:
surface.
8.5.10.1 There shall be no crush, shear, entrapment,
8.9.3 Rigid hand-gripping component(s) shall be provided,
entanglement, or catch points between the junctures caused by
and shall aid in mounting and dismounting the roll, and
two or more components of a roller slide.
maintaining balance while in use. The handgripping compo-
8.5.10.2 Acrush, shear, entrapment, entanglement, or catch
nent(s)shallmeetthesamedimensionalrequirementsasstated
point is any point that will admit a 0.19 in. (5 mm) diameter
for rungs in 8.2.1 – 8.2.4.
neoprene test rod at one or more positions, either between
8.10 Track Rides:
rollers or adjacent stationary segments.
8.10.1 Track rides are not recommended for children under
8.5.10.3 Theneoprenetestrodshallhaveahardnessreading
5 years of age.
between 50 and 60 as determined by a Type A durometer in
accordance with Test Method D2240.
8.10.2 The lowest portion of the hand-gripping component
8.5.11 Slide Exit Regions Shall Meet the Following Crite- shall be a minimum of 64 in. (1630 mm) above the surfacing.
ria: The maximum height of the hand-gripping components shall
8.5.11.1 For slides with an elevation of no greater than 48 not exceed 78 in. (1980 mm). The hand-gripping component
in.(1.2m),theheightoftheslideexitregionshallbenogreater shall comply with Sections 8.2.1 through 8.2.4.
than11in.(280mm)abovetheprotectivesurfacing.Forslides
8.10.3 The vertical distance between the overhead hand
with an elevation greater than 48 in. (1.2 m), the height of the
gripping component and the surface shall be uniform through-
slide exit region shall be between 7 and 15 in. (180 and 380
out the length of the ride.
mm) above the protective surfacing (see Fig. A1.21).
8.10.4 Track rides should be designed to prevent the struc-
8.5.11.2 The slope of the slide exit region shall be between
tural elements from obstructing the user in the landing area.
0 and –4° as measured from a horizontal plane (see Fig.
8.10.5 An unobstructed clearance zone shall be maintained
A1.22).
throughout the length of travel of the hand-gripping compo-
8.5.11.3 Slidesshallhaveaslideexitregionlengthof11in.
nent.
(280 mm) or greater (see Fig. A1.22)
8.10.6 Thecentertocenterdistancebetweenadjacenttracks
8.5.11.4 Theradiusofcurvatureoftheslidingsurfaceinthe
should be at least 48 in. (1220 mm).
exitregionshallbe30in.(760mm)orgreater(seeFig.A1.22).
8.10.7 When the rolling portions of the hand-gripping
8.5.11.5 Slide exit region edges shall be rounded or curved.
component are enclosed within the track beam, the track
8.5.12 Slide use zones shall meet the requirements of 9.3.
assembly is exempted from the crush and shear requirements.
8.6 Air Filled Devices:
8.6.1 Air filled devices shall meet the structural integrity
9. Areas Outside Soft Contained Play Equipment
criteria as specified in Section 10, without the designated play
9.1 Areasimmediatelyadjacenttoallaccessiblepartsofthe
surface of the device contacting a hard substrate or floor when
SCPE shall have use zones which are free of obstacles and
fully loaded.
coveredwithresilientsurfacing.Thedimensions,configuration
8.6.2 Air filled devices upon which users are intended to
and fall heights or these use zones are defined in 9.2 – 9.5.
walk or crawl shall be secured to minimize lateral movement
during use. 9.2 Entrances and Exits (Except Slides):
8.6.3 Blowersandelectricalcordsshallbekeptoutofreach
9.2.1 Use zones adjacent to all entrances and exits to the
of the public located in a non-use zone. SCPE (except slides, which are addressed in 9.3) shall be free
8.6.4 Electrical cords shall not pass under the air filled
of obstacles and covered with resilient surfacing meeting the
device and shall not interfere with its operation. requirements of 9.2.4 for a minimum distance of at least 60 in.
8.6.5 Theairfilleddeviceshallbefullyinflatedbeforeusers (1.5 m) from all portions of the entrance and exit which are
are allowed inside during use. outside of the contained area of the equipment.
F1918−21
9.2.2 Usezonesforentrancesandexitsshallbepermittedto above the top of the protective surfacing. Slide use zones
overlap and entrances and exits may share use zones (for directlyinfrontofslideexitsshallnotoverlap(seeFig.A1.28).
example,entrancesandexitsmaybelocatedineachothersuse
9.4 Other Play Components Use Zones:
zone).
9.4.1 Playcomponentswithadesignatedplaysurface,other
9.2.3 Usezonesforentrancesandexitsshallbepermittedto
than slides and entrances and exits, which are outside the
contain a barrier if such a barrier is parallel to the edge of the
contained area but attached to the SCPE, shall have a use zone
entrance or exit, and if the barrier is continuous and pliable or
which extends 60 in. (1.5 m) from all parts of the component
padded, or both (see Fig. A1.23).
that is outside the SCPE. The use zone shall be covered with
9.2.4 Protective surfacing in use zones defined above shall
impactattenuatingsurfacingthatmeetsSpecificationF1292for
meet Specification F1292 for the highest designated play
the highest designated play surface of the play component.
surface outside of the contained area of the equipment.
9.4.2 Use zones of play components with a designated play
9.2.5 Entrances and exits (except slides) which terminate surface, other than slides and entrances and exits, which are
within the SCPE are exempt from these requirements. outside the contained area but attached to the SCPE, shall be
permitted to overlap with o
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