General Advice

Planning the area in which you want to put your play equipment is the most important part of the process. It is very important to not only make sure the equipment fits, but to make sure it fits safely. There are some general rules that we recommend:

Ground surface — a soft surface is favourable for elevated equipment which is normally installed in ground (equipment with less than 500mm deck height can go on a hard surface). 
Slopes may affect the installation of some equipment. We can generally modify to suit but this must be done at time of order.

Inground installation — as most equipment is installed in ground, check that there are no pipes (gas, sewerage, storm water, pool etc) electrical cables, easements or watering systems in the area to be dug.

Boundary & pool fences — allow approximately 1-1.2m distance from an accessible part of the equipment eg balcony

Swinging distances — allow 2.5m swinging distance each way from the hanging position of the swing.

Slide run off — allow 1.5m at the end of the slide for safety. The slide should also be clear of any trees or obstacles within a child’s reach as they slide. This will avoid arm injuries.

Trees/branches/roots — make sure that no trees, plants, branches or roots will affect the construction of your play equipment.

Construction — it is important to allow a minimum of 300mm around the equipment to allow for its construction and also for enabling it to be painted.

We recommend that you check with your neighbours to let them know what you are planning to ensure that they do not object.

In general, the site you choose for your equipment should allow room around the equipment for safe use, and if necessary, softfall should be provided in areas where children may fall (eg 20cm of bark chip)

These recommendations are made in the intent of your children’s safety.

Note: Some equipment requires concreting in ground. These include Playgym, Adventurer, Playclimber and any equipment that is not for domestic use.