Since loose hardware causes many playground injuries, make these fastener checks your top priority:

• Tighten all bolts, nuts, set screws and other fasteners regularly

• Check and secure any loose spring castings

• Inspect open "S" hooks, shackles, rings, and links for deformation

• Verify "S" hooks are properly closed and not excessively worn—never reuse damaged hooks

• Look for any protruding bolts, nuts, or bars that need adjustment

Prevent equipment failure by replacing worn parts before they break completely:

• Replace any missing, broken, or worn-out parts immediately

• Check and replace damaged rungs, steps, or rails

• Inspect swing seats for wear and replace belt seats or other worn seats

• Replace chains showing signs of wear or damage

• Test spring riders for broken springs or seats that need replacement

• Address missing components on any play element promptly

• Check rubber seats specifically for wear, sharp edges, scorching, or burn damage

• Inspect worn swing hangers that may need replacement

Preserve your equipment's integrity by addressing surface issues quickly:

• Remove rust and repaint with lead-free paint to prevent further corrosion

• Check for deterioration in both metal and plastic components

• Look for cracks, bending, warping, or breakage in any element

• Inspect ground-level posts for rot or corrosion below grade

• Ensure all exposed tubing ends have proper caps or plugs

• Address chipped or peeling paint before rust develops

Maintain proper ground coverage since most injuries result from falls through the following tactics:

• Maintain the correct surfacing depth according to the fall height of the equipment

• Check for hard surfaces developing under high-use areas like swings and slides

• Redistribute worn or scattered surfacing material regularly

• Address drainage issues that could create hazardous conditions

• Inspect concrete footings for exposure, cracks, or ground looseness

• Monitor slide exit areas for erosion and repair as needed

• Verify that anchoring devices remain below the playground surface level

Well-lubricated moving parts last longer and operate more safely. Be sure to:

• Test swing hangers and other pivot points for free movement

• Unwrap any swing chains tangled around the top rails

• Maintain proper lubrication in tire swing assemblies

• Check all moving parts for adequate lubrication

• Identify and eliminate crush points at the mechanism junctures

• Ensure smooth operation of all rotating or swinging components

Verify critical dimensions to maintain safety standard compliance. You should:

• Verify a 12-inch minimum clearance between occupied swing seats and the ground

• Check slide exit heights (under 4 feet: max 11 inches; over 4 feet: 7-15 inches)

• Test for sharp edges or points that could cause injury

• Address any damage from vandalism that affects safety

• Monitor equipment spacing and fall zones

• Ensure all safety features remain properly positioned

• Check that flexible components anchored in the ground have anchoring devices below the playground level

Daily cleaning prevents injuries and extends equipment life, so make these tasks part of your routine:

• Remove broken glass, trash, and foreign objects immediately

• Clean debris from equipment surfaces and surrounding areas

• Clear drainage holes in tire swings to prevent water accumulation

• Keep slide surfaces clean for proper function

• Remove vegetation encroaching on equipment

• Address graffiti or vandalism promptly

Foundation and support problems can lead to catastrophic failures, making these checks critical:

• Inspect all support anchors for damage or loosening

• Test ground stability—structures shouldn't sway excessively

• Verify all connections remain solid and properly secured

• Check for any structural damage affecting stability

• Monitor equipment alignment and positioning

• Address any foundation or support issues immediately

 Thorough documentation helps you track issues, prove compliance, and protect against liability:

• Maintain detailed installation records for reference

• Keep comprehensive inspection logs with dates and findings

• Document all maintenance activities performed

• Record repairs with dates, parts used, and technicians involved

• Store warranty information and equipment specifications

• Create a maintenance schedule and stick to it