Free CPSI Common Playground Hazards 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is a common entrapment hazard on playground equipment?
- Narrow openings measuring less than 3.5 inches.
- Openings between 3.5 inches and 9 inches. (Correct answer)
- Openings greater than 12 inches.
- Openings large enough for a child to pass through entirely.
Correct answer: Openings between 3.5 inches and 9 inches.
Entrapment hazards occur when a child's head or body can become wedged in an opening, posing a risk of strangulation or injury. Specifically, openings between 3.5 inches and 9 inches are considered hazardous because they are large enough for a child's body to pass through but too small for their head, leading to head entrapment. Openings smaller than 3.5 inches prevent head entry, and those larger than 9 inches allow the head to pass through safely.
Question 2: What type of hazard is presented by protrusions on playground equipment?
- Risk of slipping.
- Risk of punctures or impalement. (Correct answer)
- Risk of overheating.
- Risk of corrosion.
Correct answer: Risk of punctures or impalement.
Protrusions on playground equipment, such as bolts extending beyond the surface, sharp edges, or exposed ends of pipes, present a significant hazard. These can cause punctures, lacerations, or even impalement if a child falls onto them. They also pose an entanglement risk for clothing or drawstrings, which can lead to strangulation.
Question 3: Which type of surfacing poses the highest risk of injury due to falls?
- Loose-fill rubber.
- Poured-in-place rubber.
- Grass or dirt. (Correct answer)
- Engineered wood fiber.
Correct answer: Grass or dirt.
Grass or dirt surfaces pose the highest risk of injury due to falls because they offer very little impact attenuation compared to engineered safety surfacing materials. Their ability to absorb impact varies greatly with weather conditions and wear, making them unreliable for preventing serious injuries from falls. Standards like ASTM F1292 specifically recommend against their use under playground equipment due to their poor shock-absorbing properties.
Question 4: What is a common strangulation hazard on playgrounds?
- Elevated platforms without barriers.
- Loose or hanging ropes attached to equipment. (Correct answer)
- Swing seats placed too close to each other.
- Inadequate surfacing material.
Correct answer: Loose or hanging ropes attached to equipment.
Loose or hanging ropes, cords, or even clothing drawstrings attached to playground equipment are a common and severe strangulation hazard. Children can get their necks or clothing caught in these items, leading to serious injury or death. Safety standards emphasize removing such items or ensuring they are securely fastened and of appropriate length to prevent this risk.
Question 5: A swing seat with cracks or sharp edges is classified as what type of hazard?
- Entrapment hazard.
- Impact hazard.
- Maintenance hazard.
- Laceration hazard. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Laceration hazard.
A swing seat with cracks or sharp edges is classified as a laceration hazard. These imperfections can cut or scrape a child's skin upon contact, leading to injuries that may require medical attention. Regular inspections are crucial to identify and repair or replace such damaged equipment to prevent these types of injuries.
Free CPSI Common Playground Hazards 1
Which of the following is a common entrapment hazard on playground equipment?