According to a 2000 study, 43% of playgrounds had dangerous or hazardous equipment – all of which were either curable or were maintenance defects. If your child has been injured on the playground, maybe it is time to examine who was really at fault.
It is common knowledge that children are prone to accidents, but playgrounds should be a safe place for children to have fun and be themselves. Dangerous or malfunctioning equipment on playgrounds can oftentimes be hidden in plain sight. Additionally, hazards such as hot rubber matting, pressure-treated wood, loose gravel and mud are all common playground dangers are sometimes overlooked by those institutions responsible for the play area.
While consistent playground inspections can help prevent injuries, many areas are deprived of these reviews, simply because they are overlooked. Community associations and schools have the crucial role of habitually examining playground equipment and materials, and have the responsibility of keeping their residents safe. Regulations and lawsuits are sometimes instrumental in bringing about proper regulations on playgrounds, but there is still a long way to go. Parents should be comfortable and at ease knowing that their children are safe on the playground.
Previous legislation has impacted playground regulation and safety guidelines in a number of ways, but you should always be cautious and attentive when it comes to the well being of your children. This could mean holding manufacturers accountable for dangerous equipment or demanding action from the institutions in charge. If you or a loved one has been injured on a school or public playground, contact Nantha & Associates to speak to one of our experts about your options.
