Maintaining Indoor Play Area Equipment

Indoor play area equipment offer children an opportunity to burn energy and develop cognitive skills while supervised. These areas also provide parents and caretakers with peace of mind that kids are being physically active in a safe environment. To ensure safety and to maximize fun, playground equipment should be properly maintained and inspected regularly.

Prioritize structures and equipment that are constructed from durable materials. Look for structures that have rounded edges and non-slip surfaces. Conduct routine inspections and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions or checklists. Train staff to perform inspections when they open and close the play area, as well as to identify symptoms of damage or wear and tear.

Designing Engaging Indoor Play Areas: A Look at Play Equipment

Check for entrapment hazards, such as spaces in which children’s heads could become trapped. Also, check for areas where loose or protruding objects might be caught.

Keep a first aid station stocked with basic supplies, such as bandages, antiseptics, ice packs, disposable gloves, scissors and an automated external defibrillator (AED). Make sure the area is easy to access by all guests, including adults.

Make sure staff has line of sight to all areas of the indoor playground. Establish a rotational schedule for each member of your staff to monitor the area, as well as to act as a “flex-monitor” to cover for someone who’s sick or otherwise unavailable during an emergency. Finally, make sure children and adults are not allowed in the playground if they’re showing signs of illness, such as vomiting or diarrhea.