1. Playground Management
Procedures Overview
Ben Bowden
Safety
February 5, 2015

2. Playground size selection is based on standardized modules and criteria.
There are 6 standardized modules for both ages 2-5 and ages 5-12.
The modules are designed to meet spacial and usage requirements of 75 sq. ft. per child and enough equipment to accommodate a predefined number of children.
For ages 2-5 playground modules are set to accommodate 40, 60, and 80 students.
For ages 5-12 playground modules are set to accommodate 60, 90, and 120 students.
The formula for size selection is as follows:
C1 = # of programmed pre-K and kindergarten classrooms.
C2 = # of programmed classrooms 1st – 5th grade.
P = # of usable recess periods.
S = # of students on playground at a given time.
(CN x 20) / P = S

3. This set of procedures makes it easy and objective to determine what playground module a school will receive.
Example Scenario 1: ABC Elementary has 2 pre-K classes and 3 kindergarten classes. There are 5 useable recess periods throughout the school day. There are no students with non-ambulatory special needs, e.g., a wheelchair-bound student. What playground module should the school get?
Formula: (5 x 20) / 5 = 20
Answer: Ages 2-5 Module 1
Example Scenario 2: ABC Elementary is a P5 school which has 17 classes from 1st – 5th grade. There are 5 usable recess periods throughout the school day. There is one student in 3rd grade that cannot leave her wheelchair without being carried by an adult. What playground module should they get?
Formula: (17 x 20) / 5 = 68
Answer: Ages 5-12 Module 5A

4. A complete site plan is included for each module indicating the number of children it will accommodate.
HCS – MODULE 1 – CRITIAL PATH
Site Plan

5. A breakdown of features for all composite structures is included to further indicate how the usage number was determined.

6. A complete rendering is included for each module, in this case Module 1 for ages 2-5, our most common.
Module #
Age design

7. A complete site plan is included for each module indicating the number of children it will accommodate.

8. A breakdown of features for all composite structures is included to further indicate how the usage number was determined.

9. A complete rendering is included for each module, in this case Module 4 for ages 5-12, our most common.
Module #
Age design

10. The playground modules naturally grow upon existing modules.

11. Playground safety and accessibility are of primary importance.
All elementary teachers are required to take a playground supervision course.
ADA accessibility and compliance are incorporated into the designs, e.g., an accessible path to the playground and surfacing material.
Annual safety inspections are performed by a certified playground safety inspector (CPSI).
All playgrounds are designed and installed by a CPSI.
All playgrounds conform to all applicable ASTM and CPSC standards.

12. Many factors were considered when creating the modules and are considered during the installation.
The location of the playground, e.g., drainage, proximity to age group, and natural shade are examples of factors.
Pre-K requirements for playgrounds designed for ages 2-5 have additional requirements.
During installation the area may be need to be cordoned and alternative play accommodations made.