Citation

Sherker S, Ritchie J, Eager DBM, Dennis R. Health Promot. J. Austr. 2009; 20(1): 31-36.

Affiliation

NSW Injury Risk Management Research Centre, University of New South Wales.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Australian Health Promotion Association, Publisher CAIRO Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

19402813

Abstract

Issues addressed: Consistent with health promotion principles of good practice, addressing playground injury necessitates the creation of a supportive environment for the enhancement of well-being and the prevention of injuries. This study aims to survey local governments to: determine compliance with playground safety standards; establish frequency of playground inspections and maintenance; and identify motivators and barriers to compliance with safety standards. Methods: A survey of key informants for playground safety in all 152 local government councils in New South Wales (NSW) was undertaken. Results: Of 152 local councils in NSW (43 metropolitan and 109 non-metropolitan), 71.7% (n=109) completed the survey, 12.5% (n=19) refused to participate and no response was received by 15.8% (n=24). Self-reported compliance with key aspects of the standard was generally high. However, only 55% of councils complied with surface impact attenuation <200 gmax and <1,000 HIC. Further, only 14.7% of councils reported impact testing the playground surface during inspections. The main motivators to compliance included: reducing risk of litigation or liability; enhancing community and child safety, and minimising the risk of injury. The main barriers included a lack of: time; personnel, and a lack of adequate and appropriate funding. Conclusions: Local Government Authorities have a duty of care to ensure the safety of playgrounds in their jurisdiction. They require time, personnel and adequate and appropriate funding in order to achieve this aim.

Language: en