Installation Tips

Have at least 12 inches of wood chips, mulch, sand, or pea gravel—or safety-tested rubber or rubber-like mats—under equipment at all times.
If your facility does not have a maintenance department, establish a volunteer crew of community members to do maintenance work on a regularly scheduled basis.
Don’t underestimate the value of maintaining your playground or recreation area on a regular basis. Regular tasks like washing, surface maintenance, and bolt inspections and repairs will protect your investment for many years.
Maintain protective surfacing at least 6 feet out in all directions from play equipment. For swings, surfacing should extend in back and in front, twice the height of the suspending bar.
Check for hidden hazards during routine inspections, like open S hooks and protruding bolt ends.
Planning a community build? Set your posts—or at least the core—of your playspace the day before to ensure a speedier completion on build day.
Do regular ground checks for tripping hazards, like exposed concrete footings, tree stumps, and rocks.
Use your local resources wisely. Find volunteers with skills, equipment, and time to help with your build.