EnviroRail Multicolour: Enhancing Safety and Fun in Play Parks

The BS 1176-1:2017 standard underscores the importance of thoughtful playground design and appropriate fencing around equipment. But what happens when poor-quality or missing fencing leads to injuries? This blog explores the practical guidelines to consider when choosing the right perimeter fence for a play park.

Preventing Head Entrapment

Both BS 1176-1:2017 and RoSPA strongly emphasise that railing design and installation must avoid head entrapment, whether a child enters headfirst or feet first. To comply with these guidelines, the gaps between vertical infill bars and where the railings meet the posts must not exceed 89 mm. The EnviroRail® PlaySec design incorporates 100 mm centres with 20 mm infill bars, resulting in a safe daylight gap of 80 mm.

It is important to distinguish PlaySec railings from standard railings. Standard designs often have daylight openings of 100 mm or more, which present a safety hazard in play parks.

Alternatively, gaps larger than 230 mm are also considered safe as they prevent children from becoming trapped. However, these larger gaps are not ideal for parks due to the risk of dogs entering the play area and posing a hazard to children.

Avoiding Protrusions

The BS 1176-1:2017 advises against designs that incorporate any form of protrusions. Protrusions, such as the pointed tips of vertical railings, pose serious risks, including entangling clothing, catching on a child’s body, or causing impact injuries. Always ensure play park railings have rounded or bow tops to prevent injuries from falls or accidental contact.

Using Anti-Tamper Fixings

Children are naturally curious and energetic, which means park fencing needs to be tamper-proof. Although not explicitly mandated by the standard, anti-tamper fixings such as shear nuts are highly recommended. Shear nuts tighten securely and then shear off, leaving a smooth, tamper-proof surface. This prevents panels from being removed, reducing the risk of children running into areas with moving equipment, such as swings.

Height Recommendations

• Perimeter Railings: It is recommended that park railings be at least 1000 mm high.
• Play Equipment Platforms: Railing heights around play platforms differ:
  • 600 mm or lower platforms: Railings should be 600 mm to 850 mm high.
  • Above 600 mm platforms: Railings should be 700 mm to 850 mm high.

Additionally, vertical infill railings are preferable to horizontal ones to discourage climbing and reduce the risk of falls.

Material Selection

Older parks often feature timber post-and-rail fences with wire mesh infills. While modern tanalised timber, particularly class 4 timber for in-ground use, is becoming a more attractive option, steel remains the most reliable, long-term choice due to its resistance to rot and durability. Steel railings can be either pre-galvanised or hot-dip galvanised for enhanced longevity.

Incorporating Colour for Safety and Engagement

It is crucial to use different colours for gates and fencing. Gates should open outward to prevent dogs from barging in and be easily identifiable in emergencies. Using bright, fun colours for the adjacent fencing can make the park more engaging and welcoming for children. Multicoloured railings foster a playful environment, encouraging children to interact with the space. This not only promotes physical activity but also facilitates social skills, friendship, and communication—all thanks to a thoughtfully designed and vibrant fence!

By adhering to the BS 1176-1:2017 guidelines and implementing innovative designs like EnviroRail® PlaySec, play parks can ensure safety, durability, and a fun, inviting atmosphere for children to enjoy.

For more information or if you would like to order our EnviroRail® PlaySec Railings, then please give our sales team a call on 01283 512111 or email sales@firstfence.co.uk