Playgrounds and Outdoor Areas
Playgrounds and the general outdoor environments of schools can present a number of hazards to both staff and students. Outdoor activity and recreation, with or without equipment, can result in injuries including sprains, strains, lacerations and fractures. It is important that systems are in place to minimise the risk of injuries associated with playground equipment, sporting equipment and the surrounding physical environment.
Schools should ensure that:
- The safety aspects of all playground and sporting equipment are considered when purchasing new equipment. This will help to ensure that the desired student outcomes are achieved without putting students or staff at risk of injury
- The design and construction of new playgrounds and sportsgrounds should include all necessary safety requirements and consider the need for appropriate shade areas
- Playground equipment is installed and maintained in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and guidelines
- Checklists are developed for playgrounds and sportsgrounds and inspections are conducted regularly
- The results of inspections are reported to school management
- Playground safety rules are established and monitored to reinforce safe play and acceptable use of equipment;
- All staff and students should be aware of the safety rules and requirements (e.g. padding of football posts)
- Students should be provided with instruction on acceptable use of equipment e.g. managing the number of students on a piece of equipment
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Departmental procedures and guidelines
Resources
Playground equipment should be thoroughly checked at least twice per year with regular visual checks being undertaken throughout the year.
Legislation and other links
- Department of Natural Resources and Mines
Includes a range of services and information, from fact sheets and guides to maps and service centres. - Department of Primary Industries
Includes information about fire ants, pests and disease, animals, plants, research, the weather, and various publications. - Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Contains information about the EPA's responsibilities, policies, guidelines, directions and activities. - Kidsafe Queensland
- Workplace Health and Safety Queensland - sun safety and heat stress
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