19 Handbook for Public Playground Safety solid no longer functions as protective surfacing. Even if the first few inches may be loose, the base layer may be frozen and the impact attenuation of the surfacing may be significantly reduced. It is recommended that children not play on the equipment under these conditions. 4.4 Recordkeeping Records of all maintenance inspections and repairs should be retained, including the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions and any checklists used. When any inspection is performed, the person performing it should sign and date the form used. A record of any accident and injury reported to have occurred on the playground should also be retained. This will help identify potential hazards or dangerous design features that should be corrected. surfacing should be raked back into proper place so that a constant depth is maintained throughout the playground. Impact attenuating mats placed in high traffic areas, such as under swings and at slide exits, can significantly reduce displacement. They should be installed below or level with surfacing so as not to be a tripping hazard. The following are key points to look for during regular checks of surfacing: • Areas under swings and at slide exits. Activity in these areas tends to displace surfacing quickly. Rake loose-fill back into place. • Pooling water on mulch surfacing. For example, wet mulch compacts faster than dry, fluffy mulch. If puddles are noticed regularly, consider addressing larger drainage issues. • Frozen surfacing. Most loose-fill surfacing that freezes
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