Practical Playground Risk Assessments
Playgrounds are designed for adventure.
Children need opportunities to climb, jump, balance, and explore.
The goal isn't eliminating risk.
The goal is managing serious harm while still encouraging healthy development.
What to Check
Equipment condition
Loose bolts
Rust
Broken plastic
Sharp edges
Splinters
Surfacing
Soft-fall depth
Drainage
Trip hazards
Wear areas
Visibility
Can teachers supervise effectively?
Are there blind spots?
Trees and Natural Areas
Falling branches
Roots
Mud
Seasonal hazards
Behavioural Risks
Overcrowding
Running games
Mixing older and younger children
Questions to Ask
What could cause serious injury?
Is this a learning risk or an unacceptable hazard?
Have children's abilities changed?
Has weather created new risks?
Great playgrounds balance challenge with safety—not remove challenge altogether.