In order to assist in fulfilling its duty of care, schools must ensure that indoor and outdoor play equipment is inspected regularly and that the inspection regime meets the latest European Standards - EN 1176 and 1177 part 7. Recommendations are summarised below:
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Routine, recorded, daily or weekly visual inspections of equipment and safety surfacing. This will include identification of hazards from vandalism, use or weather conditions. A trained member of the staff on site could carry this out and Sportsafe can provide training.
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Operational inspection: every 1-3 months or as recommended. This will involve checks on operation, stability, wear etc. A specialist contractor should carry this out.
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Annual main inspection: This will include checks on long-term levels of safety, classification of risks and recommendations for remedial action. An independent, competent contractor should carry this out.
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An inspection schedule should be prepared for each playground, listing components and methods. A trained member of the staff on site could prepare this.
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Appropriate action must be taken if defects are noted during any of the inspections. The school is responsible for organising and funding all equipment repairs and replacements, as may be required.
The Contracts & Procurement team have set up a 3 year contract (01.04.2009 – 31.03.2012) with Sportsafe to conduct these inspections for schools. This contract is currently being reviewed and in the meantime a 6 month extension has ben agreed with Sportsafe, taking the contract expiry date to 31.09.12.
Should you require additional information or if you would like your school to be included under this contract please refer to the Services to Schools Brochure on the Traded Services for Schools page.
For any queries relating to the above please call Mandy Dale on 0118 974 6277 or email procurement@wokingham.gov.uk
