Children's Services
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| Playground Safety Inspection Services Kidsafe NSW promotes the importance of children experiencing and learning about risk through safe, creative play. The expert team at Kidsafe NSW provides design and assessment advice to create playgrounds that offer a balance between safety and challenge. A Comprehensive Playground Safety Inspection will assist children’s services to fulfil their obligations as a playground owner by identifying hazards and non- compliances against the relevant Australian playground standards and, where appropriate, assist in meeting regulatory requirements. The benefits: Independent inspection to Australian playground standardsWritten report which includes:
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Call—02 9845 0893
for more information |
The Children's Services Regulation 2004 states -
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Services must comply with the requirement of AS/NZS 4422:1996 Playground Surfacing
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Playground equipment on the premises must be safe and in good repair
The Playground Advisory Unit (PAU) is available to children's services for inspection, maintenance, design and planning advice for existing and new playspaces. Please do not hesitate to contact the PAU on 02 9845 0890.
Publications and resources available to assist playspace owners regarding playground safety and design:
Family Day Care Settings
Kidsafe NSW has developed a 2 hour workshop to assist Family Day carers, coordinators and schemes to achieve safe and creative backyard play environments. Click here for information.
The Family Day Care Guidelines assists Family Day carers, coordinators and schemes to achieve a minimum level of safety in the care environment. Click here to download a copy.
Toddler Trampoline with Safety Handle
When using this type of trampoline ensure that the recommended safety guidelines are followed. Whilst the handle offers support for a young child learning to use a trampoline there is concern that a serious injury could occur if the child were to fall on the handle. Click here for Trampoline Fact Sheet
Shade Requirements for Children's Services - Providing adequate shade is an important element in any children's service sun protection strategy. Contact the Cancer Council NSW for a copy of The Shade Handbook and for information on how to develop a Sun Smart policy for your children’s service, get practical advice on shade provision, or order and download activities and resources to encourage children and parents to be Sun Smart.
Fencing in Children's Services - The Children's Services Regulation 2004 states "The design and height of any fence or gate on the premises must prevent children from scaling or crawling under or through it".
Kidsafe NSW recommends that services contact their local Council to discuss fencing requirements as per the Council's Development Control Plan.
It is recommended that careful consideration be given to the positioning of taps, pot planters, equipment items and plant types so that unintended access is not provided to the top of the fence. It is recommended that items are positioned at least 1000mm from the fence.
Kidsafe NSW provides information to children's service providers regarding suitable fencing. Contact The Playground Advisory Unit on 02 9845 0890.
Potting Mix - Potting mix may contain bacteria that is harmful to adults and children. When using potting mix Kidsafe NSW recommends:
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Read the manufacturer’s instructions printed on the bag before you use the mix.
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Before exposing the potting mix to children, be careful not to inhale airborne particles. Wear a paper mask that fits over your nose and mouth. Open the bag slowly. Dampen the mix with a light spray of water to reduce the risk of airborne particles.
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Always wear gloves when handling potting mix. Rinse or dispose of gloves afterwards.
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If children are using the potting mix, provide children with adequate fitting gloves if available. Alternatively, encourage children to use tools (such as a trowel, spade or old spoon).
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Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using potting mix.
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Store potting mix securely away from children.