In May of 2014, ASET Services performed field testing at a playground in Chicago, IL. The playground was closed by the contractor until the surface was field tested and he knew that the surface was safe for the kids and the community. The photo to the right shows the playground equipment behind orange hazard fencing. This is what it looked like when I arrived.
I was asked by about 4 families what was happening and when the park would be open. I explained that the testing was the last phase of the project because the city wants to ensure communities that their surface will protect their kids. I also told them that as soon as the project supervisor knew that the surfaces performed properly, he would open the park in a matter of a few minutes. Parents always thank me for checking that the safety surface is doing its job, but today the project supervisor got to hear those same thanks and we were both thanked for doing a great job by two parents.
As I packed up my equipment, the project supervisor opened the playground, and within minutes the area was full of kids and families. Most of the parents that had stopped to ask questions either stayed or quickly returned once the park was opened. Parents were encouraging their kids to try the new rope climbing area. The safety surfacing in this area was designed to protect from a 10 ft fall height. In this instance, I am certain that the actual installation would protect from a fall of closer to 12 ft because it out performed the project specification and international standards. I think it takes a certain peace of mind to encourage your 3 or 4 year old to climb into a 10 ft tall structure. Within minutes this park looked like it was supposed to, full of kids and families.
If you have a playground or turf project scheduled for installation, let us give you and your community the peace of mind in knowing that your safety surface and artificial turf provides proper protection from head injuries.