Once your climbing frame is assembled, it’s important to perform a few safety checks to ensure everything is secure and ready for play. Use this checklist as your guide:
Check the Safe Play Area
- Clear Safety Zone: Ensure a 200 cm (6.5 ft) area around the climbing frame is free of obstacles like structures, trees, or fences.
Verify Safe Distances for Swing Elements
- Swing Seat Clearance: The distance between swinging accessories (e.g., a swing seat) and the ground should be at least 350 mm (14 inches).
- Space Around Accessories: Leave at least 300 mm (12 inches) between each accessory and the frame.
- Swing Hook Spacing: Ensure there’s at least 450 mm (18 inches) between swing hooks and swinging accessories.
Confirm Safe Slide Installation
- Clearance Around Slides: Ensure a minimum 25 mm (1 inch) clearance next to the retaining sides at the start of the slide platform.
- Level Positioning: Add-on slides must be positioned on a level platform and ground surface.
- Check for Gaps: Ensure no openings between Ø130 mm and Ø230 mm are accessible if their lower edge is higher than 600 mm from the ground.
Inspect Swing Hooks and Ropes
- Swing Hook Alignment: Make sure swing hooks are fully screwed into the wood and properly aligned to prevent breakage.
- Secure Climbing Ropes: Ropes and rope ladders should be tightly secured at both the top and bottom. Ensure they cannot loop back on themselves to avoid strangulation risks.
Confirm Anchoring and Stability
- Secure Anchoring: Ensure the entire structure is properly anchored to prevent tipping or shifting. If the soil is loose, consider cementing the anchors for added stability.
- Check Underground Utilities: Before digging for anchors, confirm there are no underground cables, wiring, or gas lines.
- Avoid Tripping Hazards: Ensure ground anchors are flush with the surface to prevent tripping.
Inspect for Protruding Hardware and Sharp Edges
- Trim Bolts and Screws: Check for any hardware protruding beyond nuts. Use extra washers, or trim excess threads with a metal saw and smooth with a file.
- Smooth Sharp Edges: Sand all sharp corners and edges to a radius of 3 mm (1/8 inch) to prevent splinters.
By following these safety checks, you’ll create a secure and enjoyable play environment for your children.
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help!