Playground Safety Calculators

Equipment Type & Fall Height
Equipment Dimensions
Minimum Free Space (Use Zone) Extent
m from equipment edge
Total Use Zone Length
m
Total Use Zone Width
m
Total Impact Area Required
m² surfacing
Overlapping Rule (EN 1176)
1.5m Equipment Impact Area / Use Zone
Standard Reference: EN 1176 requires a min 1.5m impact area for fall heights up to 1.5m. For CFH > 1.5m, extent = (2/3 × CFH) + 0.5m. Swings and dynamic equipment require substantially larger extents based on pivot height and trajectory.
Surface Material Selection
Material CFH Rating
m (approx limit)
Required Min. Depth
mm
Installation Depth (+200mm wear)
mm (for loose fill)
Estimated Volume
m³ (if loose fill)
Safety Compliance Check
Note: Loose-fill materials (bark, sand, gravel) displace during use. EN 1176/ASTM requires installing an additional 100-200mm above the minimum depth to account for displacement and compaction.
Playground Equipment Inventory
Site Allowances
Simultaneous Play Capacity
children
Active Play Area Required
Total Recommended Site Area
m² (incl. circulation & amenities)
Density Status
Planning Reference: A high-quality local play area typically requires 5–10 m² of active space per child to prevent overcrowding and behavioral conflicts.
Surface & Environment
Est. Surface Temp
°C
Delta vs Ambient
°C
Burn Risk Assessment
Design Recommendation
Thermal Safety: Skin contact with materials over 48°C for 10 seconds can cause first-degree burns. Dark rubber surfaces and metal in direct summer sun frequently exceed 65°C.
Playground Context
Routine Visual Insp.
frequency
Operational Insp.
frequency
Next Annual Insp. Due
date
Loose-fill Raking
frequency
Est. Maint. Labor
hrs / yr
Est. Annual Cost
USD/yr (indicative)
Compliance Standard / Regime
EN 1176-7 / ASTM F1487: Inspections are divided into Routine Visual (identifying obvious hazards), Operational (checking wear and stability), and Annual Main (comprehensive structural assessment by an independent inspector).