Why a Playground Inspection Checklist is Essential for Safety and Compliance?

Routine playground inspections are critical to ensure the safety, usability, and legal compliance of public and school play areas. This checklist allows teachers, grounds staff, or council inspectors to detect wear, damage, or non-compliance issues before they escalate into injuries or costly repairs.

Adhering to AS 4685.0:2017, this structured process ensures that all play equipment and surfacing are regularly reviewed against current safety standards. Prompt identification and reporting of faults help maintain a safe, enjoyable environment for children and reduce public liability.

• Monthly inspection date clearly marked at the top of each sheet

• Check boxes for fast, visual status updates of play elements

• Covers key areas such as:

  • Structural stability of equipment

  • Surfacing condition and impact attenuation

  • Sharp edges or entrapment hazards

  • Cleanliness, litter, and visibility

  • Swing chains, slide joints, fasteners and anchors

• Faults & Hazards Section: space to note any damage or non-compliant items with location and details

• Inspector Sign-off: name, signature, and date of the person who completed the check

• Action Taken Section: records how and when each issue was addressed or resolved

• Duplicate sheets (White & Blue) for record-keeping and easy reporting

• Designed for compliance with AS 4685.0:2017 – “Playground Equipment and Surfacing”

• Optional safety tag area to flag out-of-service equipment until repairs are complete