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Playgrounds and play equipment

All play equipment and fall zones should comply with all relevant Australian Standards including but not limited to AS/NZS 4685, 4422 and 4486.

Evidence in the form of an independent playground audit is to be provided to Council prior to Practical Completion.

Where suitable play equipment is to be installed to a depth that allows the compacted soft fall to finish flush with existing ground level and consequently any soft fall indicator plates.


Softfall mulch

Soft fall mulch is to be processed pine bark 10 millimetres - 14 millimetres certified to meet the requirements of AS4422 – Playground Surfacing. Playground surfacing mulch is to be installed at a depth of 300 millimetres to allow for settling and compaction over time in order to meet the minimum Australian Standard.

The extent of the soft fall area needs to comply with manufacturer's requirements and all relevant Australian Standards and certification provided to Council.


Rubberised surfaces

Rubberised impact attenuating surfaces where approved within endorsed landscape plans must conform with Australian Standards and must be installed in a single pour to prevent the creation of joins or edges which are prone to damage from lifting and separation of seams.


Playground drainage

All playgrounds must include sub - surface drainage connected to a stormwater system. It is the responsibility of the Site Superintendent to inspect the site during construction and to sign off on the drainage prior to the installation of soft fall mulch or other suitable treatment. Swale/Table drains may be required around the site to direct surface water away from the playground.

Generally the subgrade system shall comprise subsoil drains surrounded by drainage screenings to a minimum depth of 100 millimetres all around. Subgrade levels shall be formed to fall to drains allowing for required depth of soft fall mulch. A copy of as - built drainage plans are to be provided to Council on completion of project.

Figure 8: Typical playground drainage detail

Figure 8: Typical playground drainage detail

# Description
1Approved soft fall mulch.
2Geotextile drainage fabric.
3Drainage screenings.
490 millimetres diameter slotted AG drainage pipe.

Site safety and maintenance

During construction open spaces are to be fully fenced to protect park users. Fencing is to remain in place until the open space has been signed off by a Playground Auditor and City of Greater Geelong Council Officers.

During the maintenance period the Site Superintendent is responsible for ensuring that playgrounds are subject to a minimum once - weekly safety inspection to ensure all play equipment is in a safe working order and the site is free from hazards and litter.


Playground audit and inspections

The Site Superintendent must supply a copy of the independent playground audit and all Compliance Certificates prior to the issue of PC.

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