Around October last year, we got news from the Strathfield Council about a five-year-old who lost two fingertips because of a playground incident at Strathfield Park.
The news is shocking, and certainly something we don’t want to happen again. Sadly though, this is just a recent incident and not entirely new.
Earlier in 2022, a Sydney mother went through agony as her young daughter suffered from second-degree burns. The toddler fell over the hot metal of a playground carousel.
Another example — a more tragic one — is from a decade ago. In October 2013, a six-year-old boy from Clare, South Australia died while playing with his friends in a playground in Farrell Flat, South Australia. A slippery metal slide overturned and fell over his head, causing severe head injuries. He died on the spot.
Playground accidents caused by neglect has happened time again; when they shouldn’t. These incidents serve as a sobering reminder that we must remain vigilant about safety, particularly when it comes to children. While it may be tempting to cut corners on maintenance or safety equipment to save money or time, the consequences can be devastating.
There is no excuse to skip regular playground inspections and routine maintenance. These incident highlights the critical need for businesses and public places to prioritise the safety of children. While accidents can happen, it is the responsibility of the business or organisation to ensure that their facilities are adequately maintained and equipped with all necessary safety mechanisms.
Of course, it is not just the responsibility of businesses and organisations to ensure the safety of children. Parents and caregivers must also remain vigilant and informed about potential risks in public places. While it can be challenging to keep a close eye on children at all times, it is essential to be aware of potential hazards and take steps to minimise risk.
Talk to PlayInspect to know more. We can help you with all your playground safety requirements. We are the trusted provider of playground inspection, testing and certification services in NSW. Call Us 0416 208 167.