ASTM F1148-22

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:F1148 −22
Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for
Home Playground Equipment
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1148; 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 1.3 Methods of identifying products that comply with this
consumer safety specification are given. The illustrations of
1.1 This consumer safety specification provides safety re-
home playground equipment shown in Figs.A1.1-A1.4 are for
quirements for various types of home playground equipment
informational purposes only and are not intended to limit or
intendedforusebychildrenagedfromover18monthsthrough
endorse certain types of playground equipment or equipment
10 years. It further provides such requirements for swings
features.Theseillustrationsarenotintendedtolimitthevariety
intended specifically for toddlers. Different age limits for
or various combinations of equipment that are covered by this
various requirements are found in this specification. These
consumer safety specification.
limits reflect the nature of the hazards and the expected mental
or physical ability, or both, of the child to cope with the
1.4 The purpose of this specification is to reduce the
hazards.
likelihood of life-threatening or debilitating injuries.
1.2 Home playground equipment is defined as any product
1.5 If toy accessories or toy chests are attached to home
in which the support structure remains stationary while the
playground equipment, they are applicable to this consumer
activity is taking place and is intended for a child to perform
safety specification and to any other applicable safety stan-
any of the following activities: climbing, swinging, sliding,
dards.
rocking, spinning, crawling, or creeping, or combination
NOTE 1—See Annex A1 for figures referenced throughout this con-
thereof. Fitness equipment is specifically excluded unless sumer safety performance specification.
attached to the play equipment. This specification is not
1.6 General Measures, Tolerances, and Conversions:
intended to apply to juvenile care products such as, but not
1.6.1 The general tolerances for this specification (unless
limited to, infant swings, playpens/enclosures, beds, or furni-
otherwise specified) are as follows:
ture (including outdoor furniture, such as picnic tables, cradle
Dimension Tolerance
rockers, activity centers being used as walker substitutes,
X in. ±0.5 in.
bouncers, jumpers, infant carriers, and products specifically X.X in. ±0.05 in.
X.XX in. ±0.005 in.
designedfortherapeuticuse).Thisspecificationisnotintended
Angle: ± 1°
to apply to equipment to be used in places of public assembly
Force in N: ±1.125 lbf (±5 N)
such as schools, nurseries, day-care centers, and parks. Equip- Weight in lbs: <220 lb (100 kg) ±1 lb (0.45 kg)
Weight in lbs. >220 lb (100 kg) ±2 lb (0.90 kg)
ment intended to be in child-care centers in private homes is
not exempt from the requirements of this specification. Such These tolerances apply to all dimensions unless otherwise
stated or when listed using terms like greater than, less than,
centers are defined as situations in which the child-care
providerdoesnotcareformorethansixchildrenundertheage minimum, or maximum are used.
of ten that are not residing in the household of the caregiver, 1.6.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be
and the total number of children under the age of ten does not regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
exceedten,includingthecaregiver’sownchildren.Electrically mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
operated constant air inflatable devices are exempted from the information only.
requirements of this specification. Free standing play houses
1.6.3 The metric conversion factors:
are exempt from this standard where the intent is that the child
inch (in.) to millimetre (mm): 1 in. = 25.4 mm
is standing or seated with their feet on the ground with no pound (lb) to kilogram (kg): 1 lb = 0.45359 kg
pound-force (lbf) to newton (N): 1 lbf = 4.4482 N
climbing, sliding, or swinging activities.
1.6.4 See Annex A1 for figures referenced throughout this
specification.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F15 on
Consumer Products and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F15.09 on 1.7 This consumer safety performance specification in-
Home Playground Equipment.
cludes the following sections:
Current edition approved March 1, 2022. Published March 2022. Originally
Scope Section 1
approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 2021 as F1148–21. DOI:
Referenced Documents Section 2
10.1520/F1148-22.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1148−22
3.1.3 completely bounded opening, n—any opening in a
Terminology Section 3
Materials and Manufacture Section 4
piece of play equipment that is totally enclosed by boundaries
General Requirements Section 5
on all sides so that the perimeter of the opening is continuous.
Performance Requirements Section 6
Requirements for Access Section 7
3.1.4 completely bounded non-rigid opening, n—any open-
Equipment Section 8
inginapieceofplayequipmentthatiscompletelyenclosedby
Equipment Layout Section 9
Installation Section 10
boundaries, part or all of which can deform or deflect during
Structural Integrity Section 11
normal use (for example, the openings in a flexible net or
Maintenance Instructions Section 12
lattice of webbing).
Labeling and Signage Section 13
Information Section 14
3.1.5 conspicuous, adj—describes a label that is visible,
Keywords Section 15
when the unit is in the manufacturer’s recommended use
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the
position, to a person standing near the unit at any one position
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
around the unit but not necessarily visible from all positions.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1.6 continuous surface, n—a surface smooth to the extent
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
that no hazard such as a catch point for clothing or sharp
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
edge/sharp point is created.
1.9 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.1.7 crush and shear point, n—juncture at which the user
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
could suffer contusion, laceration, abrasion, amputation, or
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
fracture during use of the playground equipment.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
3.1.8 designated playing surface, n—any elevated surface
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
intended for standing, walking, sitting, or climbing.
2. Referenced Documents
3.1.9 edge, sharp , n—an edge that can cut a user’s skin.
3.1.9.1 Discussion—An edge is judged as sharp pursuant to
2.1 ASTM Standards:
the provisions of 16 CFR Section 1500.49.
D2240Test Method for Rubber Property—Durometer Hard-
ness
3.1.10 entanglement, n—condition in which the user’s
F1292Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing
clothesorsomethingaroundtheuser’sneckbecomescaughtor
Materials Within the Use Zone of Playground Equipment
entwined on a component of playground equipment.
2.2 Federal Standards:
3.1.11 entrapment, n—any condition which impedes with-
16 CFR 1303Ban of Lead-Containing Paint and Certain
drawal of a body or body part that has penetrated an opening.
Consumer Products Bearing Lead-Containing Paint
3.1.12 fall height, n—verticaldistancebetweenadesignated
16 CFR 1500Hazardous Substances Act Regulations, in-
play surface and the protective surfacing beneath it.
cluding sections:
1500.48Technical Requirements for Determining a Sharp
3.1.13 g—the acceleration due to Earth’s gravity at sea
2 2
Point in Toys and Other Articles Intended for Use by
level, having a standard value of 386.088 in./s (9807mm⁄s ).
Children Under 8 Years of Age
The standard value may be approximated as 32.174 ft/s
1500.49Technical Requirements for Determining a Sharp
(9.807m⁄s ). Accelerations may be expressed in units of g,
Metal or Glass Edge in Toys and Other Articles Intended
where 1g= the acceleration due to gravity.
for Use by Children Under 8 Years of Age
3.1.14 g-max—the maximum acceleration of a missile dur-
1500.52and.53TestMethodsforSimulatingUseandAbuse
ing an impact, expressed in g units.
of Toys and Other Articles Intended for Use by Children
3.1.15 guardrail, n—a guardrail is a device around an
16 CFR 1501Method for Identifying Toys and Other Ar-
elevated surface that is intended to prevent inadvertent falls
ticles Intended for Use by Children Under 3Years ofAge
from the elevated surface.
Which Present Choking,Aspiration, or Ingestion Hazards
Because of Small Parts
3.1.16 hand grasping component, n—a component intended
to be grasped by the hand to steady a user (such as a handrail).
3. Terminology
3.1.17 hand gripping component, n—a component intended
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
tobegrippedbythehandtosupportthefullbodyweight(such
3.1.1 accessible, adj—relating to a part or portion of the
as a rung of a horizontal ladder or trapeze bar).
playground equipment that can be contacted by any body part.
3.1.18 handrail, n—the structural member that helps a child
3.1.2 anchors, n—accessories used to minimize possible
steady himself. As used in this consumer safety performance
tipping of the equipment, or lifting of the support legs.
2 4
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or AsharpedgetestersuitableforconductingtestsinaccordancewiththeFederal
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM regulationat16CFRSection1500.49isavailablefromU.S.TestingCo.,Inc.,1415
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on ParkAvenue, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Engineering drawings from which a sharp edge
the ASTM website. tester may be fabricated are available from the Office of the Secretary, Consumer
AvailablefromConsumerProductSafetyCommission,Washington,DC20207. Product Safety Commission, Washington, DC 20207.
F1148−22
specification, a handrail is the structural member at the top of Aseatisconsideredfullyenclosedwhenacontainmentsystem
aslidethathelpsachildsteadyhimselfwhilehesitsdown(see is employed that supports the child on all sides and in between
Fig. A1.1). the legs (see Fig. A1.5).
3.1.19 head injury criteria (HIC), n—a measure of impact 3.1.30 toy accessory, n—anarticlethatprovidescertainplay
severitythatconsidersthedurationoverwhichthemostcritical value separate from, but attached to or sold with, home
section of the deceleration pulse persists as well as the peak playground equipment intended for play-time use by a child.
level of deceleration. Such articles include miniature imitations for play use of
objects intended primarily for a specific purpose (for example,
3.1.20 lawn swing, n—a multi-user occupant enclosed
a toy telephone or a toy gas pump).
swing where children sit on opposite sides facing one another
with their feet resting on a platform and their back against a 3.1.31 turnbar, n—the horizontal bar between the support-
backrest. ing legs of a swing set, such as the one shown in Fig. A1.1.
3.1.21 platform, n—any elevated horizontal surface in- 3.1.32 use zone, n—the area beneath and immediately adja-
tended to be used by children as a place for play or as a cent to a play structure or equipment that is designated for
transitionbetweencomponents.Slidetransitionareas<200in. unrestricted circulation around the equipment, and on whose
(1290 cm ) are not considered platforms. surface it is predicted that a user would land when falling or
exiting the equipment.
3.1.22 point, sharp , n—point that can puncture or lacerate
a user’s skin.
4. Materials and Manufacture
3.1.22.1 Discussion—Apoint is judged as sharp pursuant to
4.1 General—Home playground equipment shall be manu-
the provisions of 16 CFR Section 1500.48.
factured and constructed only of materials that have a demon-
3.1.23 projection, n—a condition that due to its physical
strateddurabilityinanoutdoorsetting.Anynewmaterialsshall
nature must be tested to the requirements of this standard to
be documented or tested accordingly for durability by the
determinewhetheritisaprotrusionorentanglementhazard,or
playground equipment manufacturer or their agent.
both.
4.1.1 Metalssubjecttostructuraldegradationsuchasbyrust
3.1.24 protective barrier, n—enclosing device around an
or corrosion shall be painted, galvanized, or otherwise treated.
elevated surface that prevents both inadvertent and deliberate
Woods shall be naturally rot- and insect-resistant or treated to
attempts to pass through the device.
avoid such deterioration. Creosote, pentachlorophenol, tributyl
3.1.25 protrusion, n—a projection which, when tested in tin oxide, chromated copper arsenate (CCA), and surface
accordance with requirements of this standard, is found to be a coatings that contain pesticides shall not be used for play-
ground equipment. Wood treaters and playground equipment
hazard having the potential to cause serious bodily injury to a
user who impacts it. manufacturers shall practice technologies and procedures that
minimize the level of dislodgeable toxin. Plastics and other
3.1.26 rung, n—a cross-piece in a ladder or other climbing
materials that experience ultraviolet (UV) degradation shall be
equipment used for supporting the user’s feet or grasping by
stabilized against ultraviolet light.
the user’s hands, or both. A rung must comply with 6.10 for
4.1.2 Regardless of the material or the treatment process,
hand-gripping components.
the manufacturer shall ensure that the users of the playground
3.1.27 small part, n—a component that may become de-
equipment cannot ingest, inhale, or absorb any potential
tached during use of the playground equipment and presents a
hazardous amounts of substances through body surfaces as a
choking, aspiration, or ingestion hazard to a child. Such a
result of contact with the equipment.
component is determined to be a hazard pursuant to the
4.1.3 Lead in Paint—All paints and finishes used on play-
provisions of 16 CFR 1501.
ground equipment shall be in accordance with 16 CFR 1303.
3.1.28 swing, n—an element or seat suspended from an
5. General Requirements
elevated support structure so as to allow users to move freely
in one or more planes and possesses a pivot arm greater than
5.1 Applicable to All Home Playground Equipment—
24in. (610 mm) when measured vertically from the top of the
Playground equipment represented as complying with this
suspended element to the pivot point.
voluntary consumer safety performance specification shall
meet all applicable requirements specified herein. Anyone
3.1.28.1 Discussion—Swings include the following types:
representing compliance with this consumer safety perfor-
single axis (to-fro), multiple axis (rotating), or swings with
mance specification shall keep such essential records as are
multiplemotionsconsistingofacombinationofsingleaxisand
necessary to document his claim that the requirements within
multiple axis (combination swings).
this consumer safety specification have been met.
3.1.29 toddler swing, n—a fully enclosed single occupant
5.1.1 No item of playground equipment shall indicate, by
swingintendedforyoungchildrenwhocansituprightunaided.
label or other means, conformance with this specification
unless it conforms to all requirements contained herein. The
A sharp point tester for conducting tests in accordance with the Federal
following statement is suggested for use in identifying a
regulationat16CFRSection1500.48isavailablefromU.S.TestingCo.,Inc.,1415
product that conforms to all requirements in this specification:
Park Avenue, Hoboken, NJ 07030. An engineering drawing from which a sharp
5.1.2 “This conforms to ASTM F1148, Consumer Safety
point tester may be fabricated is available from the Office of the Secretary,
Consumer Products Safety Commission, Washington, DC 20207. Performance Specification for Home Playground Equipment.”
F1148−22
5.2 Small Parts—When installed in accordance with the does not allow the torso probe to be inserted so deep that the
manufacturer’s instructions, equipment for children under 3 opening admits the base of the probe when it is rotated to any
years of age shall meet the requirements of 16 CFR 1501. orientation about its own axis, or (2) the opening allows full
NOTE 2—A rationale for provisions in this consumer safety perfor-
passage of the torso probe and also allows the head probe to
mance specification is given in Appendix X1.
pass completely through.
(3)A nonrigid opening fails the test under the following
6. Performance Requirements
conditions: the opening allows full passage of the torso probe
6.1 Head and Neck Entrapment—Home playground equip-
but does not admit the head probe.
mentshallbedesignedandconstructedsothatwhenassembled
6.2 Acute Angles—There shall be no acute angles, or group
any accessible opening shall meet the following performance
of acute angles, formed by two or more members in which the
requirements to reduce the risk of accidental head or neck
legs point upward from the apex so that the configuration
entrapment by either a head first or feet first entry into the
approximates a “V” with an interior angle less than 55°
opening.Openingsbetweenthegroundandthebottomedgeof
(0.96rad).
the equipment (such as rails, platforms, steps, etc.) are exempt
6.2.1 Exemptions to 6.2:
from this requirement as illustrated in Fig. A1.6.
(1) Inverted Angle or “V” Condition—Those “Vs” that are
6.1.1 Accessible Openings—Anycompletelyboundedopen-
inverted.A“V”isconsideredinvertediftheloweradjacentleg
ing that completely accepts the torso test probe. A completely
forming the “V” is horizontal or slopes downward from the
bounded opening is accessible when a torso test probe may be
apex (see Fig. A1.9).
inserted into the opening to a depth greater than or equal to
(2) Filled Apex Condition—“V” angles less than 55°
4in.(100mm)usingthefollowingtestmethod(seeFig.A1.7).
(0.95rad) where the apex of the angle is filled to the point that
(1) Test Procedure and Performance Criteria for Com-
will not allow the head probe to contact both surfaces of the
pletely Bounded Openings—Place the torso probe in the
angle simultaneously (see Fig. A1.9). The angle shall be
opening, tapered end first, with the plane of its base parallel to
covered with a shield that is made of a rigid material. The
the plane of the opening; rotate the probe while keeping its
shield shall be capable of withstanding impact of at least
base parallel to the plane of the opening. If the base of the
20ft·lbf (27 J) imparted to a spot within 1 in. (25 mm) of the
probe passes through the opening when it is rotated about its
geometric center of the shield by a 5 in. (127 mm) diameter
own axis in any orientation, place the head probe (see Fig.
steel ball. The shield shall be tested while secured to the
A1.8) in the opening, tapered end first, while its plane is
members of the playground equipment by the hardware pro-
parallel to the plane of the opening.
vided. During the test, the equipment or portions thereof, if
(2)Anopeningcanpassthistestwhentestedinaccordance
required, shall be oriented so that the surface of the shield is
with 6.1.1(1) in one of two ways: (1) the opening does not
horizontal.
admitthetorsoprobewhenitisrotatedtoanyorientationabout
(3) Rope, Chain, and Cable—“V” angles less than 55°
itsownaxis,or(2)theopeningadmitsthetorsoprobeandalso
(0.95rad)wheretheapexoftheangleisformedbyaninclined
admits the head probe.
or vertical climbing surface and a rope, chain, or cable. To be
(3)An opening fails the test under the following condi-
exempt, the point of the formed “V” angle must be no greater
tions: The opening admits the torso probe but does not admit
than 1.5 in. (38 mm) above the protective surfacing. See Fig.
the head probe.
A1.10.
6.1.2 Completely bounded openings that are accessible
(4) Inaccessible Acute Angles—Completely bound open-
must also meet requirements for angles as outlined in 6.2.
ings that do not accept the torso test probe inserted into the
6.1.3 Nonrigid Completely Bounded Openings—A nonrigid
opening to a depth greater than or equal to 4 in. (100 mm)
opening such as, but not limited to, flexible nets, tarps, and
using the test method as defined in 6.1.1 (see Fig. A1.7) are
plastic enclosures is considered accessible if a torso probe will
considered inaccessible.
penetrate the opening to a depth greater than or equal to 4 in.
6.3 Protrusions—When tested in accordance with 6.3.1 –
(100 mm) when tested in accordance with 6.1.1(1) (see Fig.
A1.7). Flexible restraining systems on toddler swings are 6.3.6.1, no protrusion shall extend beyond the face of the
appropriate test gauge as defined in 6.3 and shown in Fig.
exempt from this requirement unless they form leg openings.
A1.11 and Fig. A1.12.
(1) Test Procedure for Entrapment in Nonrigid Openings—
6.3.1 Perform protrusion tests by successively placing each
Place the torso probe in the opening, tapered end first, with the
plane of its base parallel to the plane of the opening; rotate the test gauge shown in Fig. A1.11 to determine if the protrusion
extends beyond the face of the smallest gauge that can be
probe while keeping its base parallel to the plane of the
opening;apply50lbf(222N) 61.125lbf(5N)whileattempt- successfully placed over the protrusion (for example of test
gauge use, see Fig. A1.13).
ing to push the probe through the opening. If the base of the
probe passes through the opening when it is rotated about its 6.3.2 Upright Protrusions—Protrusions that fit within any
of the gauges and that project upwards from a horizontal plane
ownaxisinanyorientationand50lbf(222N)isapplied,place
theheadprobeintheopening,taperedendfirst,whileitsplane shall have no projection extending greater than 0.125 in.
(3mm) perpendicular to the plane of the initial surface (see
is parallel to the plane of the opening and 50 lbf (222 N) is
applied. Fig. A1.14).
(2)A nonrigid opening can pass the test when tested in 6.3.3 Motion Rides—Protrusions on the front and rear sur-
accordance with 6.1.3(1) in one of two ways: (1) the opening faces of suspended members of swinging elements and those
F1148−22
on the interior surface of slides shall not protrude beyond the mentshallmeanthataforcegreaterthan2lbf(9N)isrequired
face of the test gauge shown in Fig. A1.12. Conduct the test to pull out the rod. The neoprene rods shall have a hardness
withthesuspendedmemberinitsrestposition.Placethegauge reading between 50 and 60 as determined by a Type A
shown in Fig.A1.12 over any protrusions on the front and rear durometer in accordance with Test Method D2240.
surfacesofthesuspendedmembersuchthattheaxisofthehole
6.7 Holes and Slots—If a circular hole or slot in any rigid
is parallel to both the intended path of the suspended member
material with a thickness less than 0.375 in. (10 mm) is
and a horizontal plane.
accessible and can admit a 0.25 in. (6 mm) +0.005 in./–0
6.3.4 Slides—Slides, including protective barriers and their
(+0/–0.127 mm) diameter rod to a depth of 0.375 in. (10 mm)
method of attachment and transition areas, pose a greater risk
or greater, it shall also admit a 0.50 in. (13 mm) +0/–0.005 in.
ofentanglementthanotherareasofplayequipment.Therefore,
(+0/–0.127 mm) diameter rod. Chains and their method of
the following requirements apply to slides and sliding devices:
attachment are exempt except as described in 8.1.7.2.
6.3.4.1 Any accessible protrusion that allows the 3.00 in.
6.8 Hardware:
(76 mm) protrusion gauge (see Fig.A1.11) to pass over it shall
6.8.1 Upon final assembly, bolt ends shall not protrude
have no projection extending perpendicular from the initial
beyond the nuts greater than the diameter of the bolt when the
surface greater than 0.125 in. (3 mm). The area that is subject
nuts are tightened to a torque between 20 lbf·in. and 25 lbf·in.
to this requirement is outlined in Fig. A1.16. The outside
(2.3 N·m and 2.8 N·m).
surface of tunnel slides that are completely enclosed are not
6.8.2 Threaded bolt ends that are recessed such that the end
subject to the requirements of this section.
oftheboltliesatorbelowasurroundingsurfacelocatedwithin
6.3.4.2 Slides shall be constructed in such a manner as to
1.0 in. (25 mm) +0/–0.05 in. (+0/–1.3 mm) of the centerline of
provide a smooth continuous sliding surface with no gaps or
the bolt are exempt from the requirements of 6.8.1 (see Fig.
spaces that might create an entanglement hazard such as, but
A1.19). Recessed threaded bolt ends that are free from hazard-
not limited to, the space created between sidewalls when two
oussharpedgesandburrsareexemptfromtherequirementsof
single slides are combined to create a double wide slide or the
6.8.3.
point where a hood attaches to the sidewalls of a slide. Roller
slides are exempt from the requirements of this section. NOTE 3—The surrounding surface shall be blended wherever possible
tocreatesmoothcontourswithoutabruptchangesinshapethatcouldpose
6.3.5 No protrusion may terminate in a dimension greater
a potential impact hazard.
than that of the base dimension (see Fig.A1.17). In the case of
6.8.3 If the threaded ends of exposed bolts or rods protrude
hardwareasdefinedin6.8,thebasedimensionshallbedefined
fromadjacentsurfacesinareasofnormallyexpectedplay,orif
as the major dimension of the attachment nut or bolt head.
the thread is not free of exposed hazardous sharp edges or
6.3.6 Exclusions—Protrusions are exempt from the require-
burrs, or both, then the threaded ends shall be covered by
ments of 6.3.2 and may be considered inaccessible if the
smooth finish caps.
protrusion cannot be placed within the 3.0 in. diameter test
6.8.4 Any caps that are used shall be tight-fitting when
gauge (see Fig. A1.18).
installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
6.3.6.1 Rope protrusions are specifically exempted from the
They shall be subjected to a torque of 4 lbf·in. (0.45 N·m) 6
requirements of 6.3.
0.5lbf-in. (0.056 N-m) and a tensile force of 15 lbf (67 N)
6.4 Edges, Points, and Surfaces—Following assembly of
61.125lbf (5N). These components shall comply with the
the unit in accordance with the instructions to be provided to
requirements of 16 CFR 1500.48, 1500.49, 1500.53 (e and f),
theconsumer,thereshallbenosharpedges,points,orsurfaces
and 1501.
on any portion of the home playground equipment capable of
6.8.5 Lock washers, self-locking nuts, or other locking
inflicting a cut on a child.
means shall be provided for all bolts.
6.4.1 All equipment shall be packaged in a manner that will
6.9 Hooks—Open-ended hooks may be used for the upper-
preclude any sharp edges from being exposed during transit or
most suspension point of suspended elements provided that
storage.
they have openings, or entry to an opening, in the area inside
6.5 Open Tubing—All open tubing ends that are not resting
theboundariesrepresentedbyalinethatisadjacenttotheouter
on the ground, or otherwise covered, shall be provided with
extremity of the uppermost portion of the hook, and parallel to
caps or plugs that have a smooth finish and are tight-fitting.
the normal plane of suspension. Some examples of hooks that
They shall be subjected to a torque of 4 lbf-in. (0.45 N-m)
are acceptable and unacceptable are shown in Fig. A1.20.
65lbf-in. (0.056 N-m) and a force of 15 lbf (67 N)
6.9.1 Hooksusedforattachmentofrides,orswingelements
61.125lbf(5N)whentestedinaccordancewithTitle16CFR
atanypointotherthanattheuppermostsuspensionpoint,shall
Section 1500.53(e and f).
bedesignedtoallowfullclosure,orbeotherwiseprotected(for
example, protective coverings). A hook is considered closed
6.6 Crush and Shear Points—There shall be no crush or
when the gap or space cannot admit a 0.04 in. (1 mm)
shear points caused by junctures of two components moving
+0/–0.005in. (+0⁄–0.125 mm) feeler gauge.
relative to each other that could cause a contusion, laceration,
abrasion, amputation, or fracture.Acrush or shear point is any 6.10 Hand Support: Hand Gripping/Grasping Components:
point that allows a 0.187 in. (5 mm) diameter neoprene rod to 6.10.1 Hand Gripping Components intended to be gripped
enter at one or more positions and entraps at one or more by the hands to support body weight, such as rungs of
positions a 0.50 in. (13 mm) diameter neoprene rod. Entrap- horizontal ladders, climbing bars, handles, and the like, shall
F1148−22
not exceed 1.55 in. (39.4 mm) in diameter or in the maximum Thehandrailheight(theverticaldistancebetweenthetopfront
cross-sectional dimension. When structural requirements can- edge of a step and the handrail above it) shall be between 22
not reasonably be met by the 1.55 in. diameter components,
in.and 38 in. (559 mm and 965 mm).
caremustbeexercisedinselectingalternativecomponentsand
7.2.1.1 Stairways with a tread surface area of ≥200 in.
designs, or both, to ensure that hand-gripping potential is not
(1290cm )musthaveacontinuoushandrailthatcomplieswith
seriously impaired.
the requirements for guardrails and barriers in 7.3.
6.10.2 Hand grasping components intended to be grasped
7.2.2 Open riser step ladders with a slope between 65° and
by the hand to steady the user, such as a handrail, shall have a
75° may be considered a climber and do not require handrails
maximum diameter or width of 1.75 in. (44.5 mm) and a
aslongasameansofhandsupportisprovidedwhileclimbing.
minimum graspable depth of 1.5 in. (38 mm) to allow the
Climbers and rung ladders must provide a means of hand
fingers to pass over the object to be grasped. See Fig. A1.21.
support at the transition from climber to the platform. Open
riserstepladderswithaslopebetween50°and<65°mustmeet
7. Requirements for Access
the requirements of 7.2.3.
7.1 Rung Ladders, Stepladders, and Stairways:
7.2.3 Rung ladders and step ladders with closed risers must
7.1.1 Rungs, steps, and stairs shall be evenly spaced within
provide handgripping components or other means of continu-
a tolerance of 60.25 in. (66 mm) and horizontal within a
ous hand support beginning at the first step of a step ladder or
tolerance of 62°. The even spacing will include the distance
first rung of a rung ladder that conform to the requirements of
between the top rung, step, or stair and the top surface of the
6.10 hand gripping/grasping components.
platform.
7.1.2 Rung ladders, stepladders, and stairways shall comply 7.2.3.1 Rung ladders shall have hand-gripping support
with the requirements found in Table 1.
abovetheplatformtofacilitatethetransitionfromtheladderto
7.1.3 Tread depth, width, and rise shall be measured as
the platform.
illustrated in Fig. 1.
7.3 Guardrails and Protective Barriers—Guardrails or pro-
7.2 Handrails:
tective barriers shall be provided on elevated surfaces such as
7.2.1 Continuous handrails shall be provided on both sides
platforms, landings, walkways, ramps and similar transitional
of stairways and stepladders that have more than one tread.
play surfaces, in accordance with the following subsections.
Handrailsorothermeansofhandsupportshallbeavailablefor
Guardrails and protective barriers shall be designed to discour-
use at the beginning of the first step. The handrail shall be
age climbing and must have a top surface less than 3 in.
between 0.95 in. and 1.55 in. (24 mm and 39 mm) in diameter.
(76mm) wide or having greater than a 30° (0.52 rad) angle
from horizontal.
TABLE 1 Access Requirements for Rung Ladders, Stepladders 7.3.1 Elevated surfaces less than or equal to 30 in. (76 cm)
and Stairways
above the surfacing do not require guardrails. Guardrails shall
Type of Access
be provided on elevated surfaces greater than 30 in. (76 cm)
Rung Ladder:
but less than or equal to 48 in. (122 cm) above the surfacing.
slope 60 to 90°
Protective barriers shall be provided on elevated surfaces
(1.047 to 1.570
greater than 48 in. (122 cm) above the surfacing.
rad)
total ladder width $12 in.
7.3.2 Guardrails shall completely surround the elevated
(304.8 mm)
surface except for entrance and exit openings necessary for
vertical rise (top of rung to top of rung) #12 in.
(304.8 mm)
eachevent.Guardrailoverallheightshallbeequaltoorgreater
Stepladders:
than 25 in. (635 mm).The maximum vertical opening between
Slope $50 to 75°
the lowermost member of a guardrail and the elevated surface
(0.872 to 1.309
rad)
it surrounds shall be 24 in. (610 mm). Openings between
Tread width:
guardrail members or between a guardrail and the elevated
single file access 12 to 21 in.
(304.8 to 533.4 surfaceitsurroundsshallconformtotherequirementsaddress-
mm)
ing head and neck entrapment. If the top surface of the
two-abreast access not recommended
guardrailcreatesacompletelyboundedopeningwhichpresents
Tread depth:
open riser $3 in. (76.2 mm)
a head and neck entrapment hazard, it is permissible to lower
closed riser $7 in. (177.8 mm)
the guardrail to below the 25 in. (635 mm) height requirement
vertical rise (top of step to top of step) #11 in.
toeliminatetheheadandneckentrapmenthazard(seeexample
(279.4 mm)
Stairways:
in Fig. A1.22).
Slope <50° (0.872 rad)
7.3.3 Elevated surfaces that are greater than 48 in.
Tread width:
single file access $12 in.
(1219mm) above the surfacing but less than or equal to 72 in.
(304.8 mm)
(1829mm) above the surfacing shall have protective barriers
two-abreast access $30 in. (762 mm)
equal to or greater than 27 in. (686 mm) high. Elevated
Tread depth:
open riser $7 in. (177.8 mm)
surfaces greater than 72 in. (1829 mm) above the surfacing
closed riser $7 in. (177.8 mm)
shall have protective barriers equal to or greater than 33 in.
vertical rise (top of step to top of step) #9 in. (228.6 mm)
(838 mm) high.
F1148−22
FIG. 1Tread Depth, Width, and Rise
TABLE 2 Swing Hanger Arc and Test Weight
7.3.3.1 Protective barriers shall completely surround the
θ , degrees
elevated surface except for entrance and exit openings neces- o
Swing Type Test Weight, lb (kg)
(rad)
sary for each event. Protective barriers shall be designed to
Single-occupancy swing (two hangers) 90 (1.57) 80 (37)
minimize the likelihood of climbing. Openings within barriers
Multiple-occupancy exposed swing (two 60 (1.05) 130 (60)
or between the platform surface and lower edge of protective
hangers, two occupants)
Multiple-occupancy enclosed swing (four 45 (0.79) 60 (27)
barriers shall preclude passage of the torso probe (see Fig.
hangers, two occupants)
A1.7).
Multiple-occupancy enclosed swing (four 45 (0.79) 120 (54)
hangers, four occupants)
8. Equipment
8.1 Swings:
8.1.1 To-fro swinging components such as, but not limited 8.1.2.2 Asanalternativetothetestin8.1.2.1,swinghangers
to, swings, trapeze bars, trapeze rings, and gliders shall not be may be tested individually in a laboratory test fixture as
attached to upper body components such as horizontal ladders. follows: Secure the hanger to a portion of its support member
8.1.2 Hangers—All swing elements shall have hanger ar- inaccordancewiththemanufacturer’sinstallationinstructions.
rangements whose durability shall be determined by either of Installthesupportmemberandhangerinthetestfixtureshown
the following dynamic cycling tests. At the completion of the inFig.A1.23,ensuringthatthepivotaxisofthetestfixtureand
test there shall be no loosening or structural failure of the the pivot point of the hanger are aligned. In accordance with
hanger. Table 2, attach the appropriate test weight to the hanger and
8.1.2.1 Each type of swing element shall be attached to its oscillate the hanger support member 180000 cycles (forward
supportmemberinaccordancewiththeinstallationinstructions and backward) through the appropriate arc.
and mounted in a suitable test fixture. Flexible components of 8.1.3 Minimum Ground Clearance—When the assembled
the swing element may be replaced by rigid components of at swing set is installed according to the manufacturer’s
least the same size and weight as long as the alternative instructions, the minimum clearance between the ground sur-
components do not affect the swing element’s moving parts. face and the underside of any suspended unit shall be 8 in.
The appropriate test weight shall be secured to each occupant (200mm).
position to be tested. This suspended unit shall then be 8.1.4 Suspended Swinging Elements:
oscillated through an arc with an included angle as specified in 8.1.4.1 Suspended elements shall be smoothly finished with
Table 2 for a total of 180000 cycles (forward and backward). blunt or rounded edges and shall conform to 6.4.
F1148−22
male to be 32.7 in. (831 mm).
8.1.4.2 Suspended elements shall not impart a peak accel-
eration in excess of 100 g (980 m/s ) and shall have an HIC
8.1.7.3 Toddler Swing Stability—Toddler swings shall re-
scorenottoexceed500whentestedinaccordancewithimpact
main stable when tested in accordance with the stability test
attenuation requirements in 8.1.11.
methodin8.1.7.5.Aswingisconsideredunstableandfailsthis
8.1.4.3 Any part of a swing that is a minimum of 84 in.
requirement if, during any of the 6 swing attempts, the
(2134 mm) above the protective surface at its lowest point in
pendulum test apparatus (see Fig. A1.27) tips or falls forward
use is exempt from the impact requirements.
or backward and causes the horizontal reference line of the
8.1.5 Lawn Swings—These swings shall be provided with
toddler swing to hang at an angle greater than 30° (0.52 rad)
platforms or footrests and seats meeting the criteria given in
from its original position (see Fig. A1.28).
8.1.5.1 – 8.1.5.4.
8.1.7.4 Toddler Swing Stability Test Setup:
8.1.5.1 Seats intended for individual or dual passengers that
(1)Toddler swings shall be tested for stability utilizing a
include a backrest shall be designed so that any opening
pendulum test apparatus constructed in accordance with the
betweentheseatandthebackrestshallprevententryofthetest
dimensions and materials specified in Fig. A1.27. The pendu-
fixture(seeFig.A1.24andFig.A1.25)whenitislocatedatany
lumtestapparatusconsistsofa10lb(4.5kg)barbellweightat
point in the opening and a force of 45 lbf (200 N) 6 1.125 lbf
the top of a freely pivoting bar and a 10 lb (4.5 kg) barbell
(5N)isappliedtothefixtureinadirectionperpendiculartothe
weight affixed to the bottom of the test apparatus. The barbell
entrance plane of the opening. The force shall be applied
weights shall have a maximum diameter of 8.25 in. (210 mm).
gradually and maintained for 5 min.
The total weight of the pendulum test apparatus shall not
8.1.5.2 The platform or footrest shall extend no less than
exceed 24.0 lb (10.9 kg).
1in. (25 mm) behind the forward leading edge of the seat (see
Dimension A, Fig. A1.24). This dimension shall be measured (2)Suspend the toddler swing seat in accordance with the
horizontally with the swing in its at-rest position. The space manufacturer’s instructions. If the swing height is adjustable,
between any slats in the platform shall be no greater than
perform the test at both the highest and lowest settings. With
1.5in. (38 mm). the swing at rest, establish a horizontal reference line on the
8.1.5.3 The area of the platform that extends beyond the swing seat.
vertical supports of the swing shall be angled upwards not less
(3)Secure the complete pendulum test apparatus within
than 30° from the horizontal (see Angle C, Fig. A1.24).
0.5in. (13 mm) of the geometric center of the swing seating
8.1.5.4 Thebottomedgeoftheseatskirtshallnotbegreater
surface with the direction of travel of the pendulum arm the
than 10 in. (254 mm) above the top surface of the platform or
same as the swing direction.
footrestwhentheswingisinitsat-restposition(seeDimension
(4)If the seating area of the toddler swing is made of a
B, Fig. A1.24).
flexible material, additional bracing material may be added to
8.1.6 Pendulum See-Saws—Pendulumseesawsshallbepro-
the exterior bottom of the swing seat to aid in securing the
vided with footrests. There shall be no openings with internal
pendulum test apparatus. Care should be taken to assure the
dimensionsofwhichboththelengthandwidtharegreaterthan
additional bracing material does not influence the test results.
3.5 in. (89 mm) and less than 9 in. (229 mm). The spacing
(5)The center of gravity (cg) of the top weight of the
betweenthetwosupportbarsshallnotdecreasetowardtheseat
pendulum test apparatus shall be at a height of 16 in.
supports. In the case of a pendulum seesaw designed with
(406.4mm) –0.5 in./+0 (–13 mm/+0) from the top of the
formed handles providing a greater opening, the minimum
seating surface when the pivot arm is positioned vertically.
spacing below the formed handles shall be greater than 9 in.
NOTE 5—The 16 in. height is based on field testing of swings that were
(229 mm).
recalled because of tipover and swings that have performed without
8.1.7 Toddler Swings:
tipping over.
8.1.7.1 Restraining System—Toddler swings shall have a
child restraining system. Fully enclosed flexible bucket seats 8.1.7.5 Toddler Swing Stability Test Method:
are exempt from this requirement. (See Fig. A1.5.) (1)While holding the pendulum test apparatus to the rear
(1)Toddler swings shall be equipped with a crotch re- oftheseat,raisetheswingseatinthereardirectiontoanangle
straint.Acrotch restraint designed to work with a lap belt shall
of 60º (1.05 rad) +5/–0 (+0.087/–0) as measured from vertical
be designed such that its use is mandatory when the restraint
to a line that connects the swing hanger pivot point with the
system is in use.
geometric center of the seating surface.
8.1.7.2 Chains—Chains on swing seats that support the
(2)Simultaneously release the swing and pendulum test
weight of a child, intended for children 36 months or less in
apparatus and allow it to swing freely until the swing arc is
age, shall be shielded if the chain is accessible and if a 0.19 in.
within 15º (0.26 rad) from vertical in either direction. At this
(4.8 mm) +0/–0.005 in. (+0/–0.127 mm) diameter rod can be
point, stop the swinging motion by slowly returning the swing
inserted between two links, as in Fig.A1.26, with the chain in
to its at-rest condition while being careful not to disturb the
a slack configuration.Achain is considered accessible when it
position of the pendulum test apparatus. Measure the angle of
is less than or equal to 33 in. (840 mm) from the top of seating
the reference line on the swing seat from the horizontal.
surface.
(3)Perform steps 1 and 2 three times.
(4)Repeat steps 1 through 3, except that the pendulum test
NOTE4—The33in.(838mm)isbasedonaNetherlandsanthropometry
study showing the seated vertical reach height of a 97% three-year-old apparatus shall be held in the forward direction.
F1148−22
(5)If after any of the 6 swing attempts the angle of the 8.1.10 Spacing Between Swing Elements and Stationary
swinginitsat-restconditionexceeds30º(0.52rad),asnotedin Frame Members:
8.1.7.3, the swing is considered unstable and fails. 8.1.10.1 Occupant Enclosed—Elements with two or more
8.1.8 Swing Set Stability—With the swing set assembled in laterally spaced supports where supports are on both sides of
accordance with the manufacturers instructions, and installed theoccupant(forexample,suspendedchainorropeswingsand
with a 5° (0.087 rad) downward slope in the same direction as tubularly suspended lawn swings). Minimum spacing between
theswingingelements,theswingsetshallremainuprightwhen the outer extremity of the swing element and stationary
a weight equal to the 95th percentile weight for the maximum membersshallbe7in.(180mm)whenmeasuredataheightof
age user (see Table 3) is placed in the first two positions of the 28in.(710mm)abovetheseatingsurface(seeDimensionCin
swing set and a weight equal to the 50th percentile weight is Fig. A1.29).
placed in all remaining positions that can be occupied by a
NOTE 6—Twenty-eight inches (710 mm) is the approximate sitt
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