Gisborne District Council - Playground Audit Park Central
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18-415 Appendix 1
Gisborne
District
Council
Playground Audit
Park Central
July 2018 0
Contents
1. Brief
2. Methodology
3. Summary Conclusions
4. Result
5. Benchmarking
6. Repairs and Renewals
7. Basis for Recommendations
8. Playground Safety Standards
9. Capital Renewals
10. New Equipment
11. Entrapments
12. Safety Surface
13. Maintenance
14. Maintenance Detail
Appendix
(i) Pricing assumptions
(ii) Sites inspected
(iii) Prams Rating
Attachments
(i) Spreadsheet Reports
(ii) Individual Reports
1
During July 2018 48 playgrounds, fitness sites and skate parks were audited on behalf of
Gisborne District Council.
1. Brief
The brief was to inspect the playgrounds, assess and rate their condition, measure their
level of compliance to the New Zealand Safety Standards, make an assessment of
maintenance standard and provide recommendations for bringing equipment up to meet
Safety Standard requirements.
The brief did not include the auditing of structural integrity of equipment.
2. Methodology
Two inspectors undertook the audit. Each site was visited and the following inspection was
undertaken.
• To inspect 48 playground sites
• Evaluate all equipment to NZ Standards 5828 and list areas of non-
compliance
• Evaluate any new equipment (installed in 1996/1997, onwards) against ASNZ
4422:1996 and ASNZ 4486; or NZS5828:2004/15 and list areas of non-
compliance
• Evaluate condition of play equipment, specifically:
All moving parts
Bolts and fasteners
Chains and ropes
Surfaces underneath equipment
Missing components
Footings/equipment stability
2
Brief
• Rate the playground condition on a scale of 1-5, with 1 being Excellent and 5
being Very Poor.
• Flag issues of metal/structural fatigue for further investigation
• Evaluate equipment for entrapments
• Evaluate safety surfacing, specifically:
Depth (if in bark)
Fall Zones meet the NZ standards
Areas of wear
Effectiveness of synthetic surfacing
• Rate Safety Surface Condition on a scale of 1-5.
• Evaluate standard of maintenance
• Photo record of each site
Methodology 3
3. Summary Conclusions:
The majority of the playgrounds were in good condition. Many of the sites had obvious signs of regular and high levels of use,
particularly the large city playgrounds. It cannot be underestimated the huge impact that the location of the playgrounds in coastal
conditions has on the expected lifespan of equipment. The majority of playgrounds are in coastal areas and many are experiencing
high levels of rust.
The level of compliance to the playground safety standards was at a high level at 84%, and continues to improve. This rating
includes some additional sites in the 2018 audit. The rating does include many older playgrounds measured to the older standards.
The areas of non compliance to the more recent standards is listed in the spreadsheet.
The recent and ongoing renewal program is having a beneficial affect with many new playgrounds greatly improving the compliance
and overall condition rating of the asset. There has previously been a backlog of playgrounds in poor condition.
The overall condition of the playground asset was good, however there are some very poor and poor items throughout the playground
stock. They have been poorly maintained for many years, with serious safety issues not addressed. This leaves Council exposed
when the equipment is in such poor condition with obvious hazards that are exposed to the users. The maintenance of the rural
sites was worse than the city sites.
There were many items that were past their useful life, it is not cost effective to repair them. They should be programmed for
replacement. Consideration should be given to removing items that are in very poor and poor condition, if they cannot be renewed
or repaired in the next 12 months. In particular the playground at Waihere Domain is in very poor condition. These items should be
removed if they cannot be renewed in the short term.
The level of maintenance was of a variable standard. There were a number of maintenance items that are impacting on
compliance. An example of this is 5 swings that the seats are too low and therefore making the equipment non compliant. The
replacement of swing chains and connections has resulted in improved compliance and the removal of finger entrapment gaps.
Conclusions 4
4. Result
The playgrounds were measured against the standard ASNZ 4422 or 4486 if installed prior to 2004. Equipment and surfacing
installed after April 2005 was measured against NZS 5828:2004 or NZS5828:2015.
There is very little difference between the 2004 and 2015 standards.
Compliance rating:
There are 267 skate, playground and surfacing assets at the 48 sites.
Each individual item of equipment and safety surfacing was measured. Of the 197 items of equipment and 70 areas of safety
surfacing inspected at the 48 reserves.
Result
Equipment
15 Items of equipment complied with ASNZ 4486.
101 Item of equipment complied with NZS 5828:2004 or NZS 5828:2015
27 Items of equipment did not comply with any standard.
54 items out of commission, gone or not applicable
Safety Surface
64 Areas of safety surfacing complied with NZ5828:2004 or NZS 5828:2015
6 Safety surface areas did not comply with any standard
A compliance rate of 84%. This compares with a rate of 83% in 2017, 75% in 2016 and 68% in 2011. The level of
compliance is high compared to other cities throughout the country. There are however a number of playgrounds
measured against old standards that would bring the rating down if measured against NZS5828:2004/15.
Results 5
4.2 Condition rating:
Equipment
34 Items of equipment had a condition rating 1-excellent
•70 Items of equipment had a condition rating 2- very good
•61 Items of equipment had a condition rating 3- good
•17 Items of equipment had a condition rating 4- poor
•5 Items of equipment had a condition rating 5- very poor
Safety Surface
•14 Area of safety surfacing had a condition rating 1- excellent
•18 Areas of safety surfacing had a condition rating 2- very good
•32 Areas of safety surfacing had a condition rating 3- good
•5 Areas of safety surfacing had a condition rating 4- poor
•1 Areas of safety surfacing had a condition rating 5- very poor
6
Condition Rating
5.0. Benchmarking:
The level of compliance to the playground safety standards is comparable with other Councils in New Zealand.
Whangarei District Council 2007 audit had a 97% level of compliance
Auckland Council (North) 2012 audit had an 95% level of compliance.
Auckland Council (South) 2014 audit had an 78% level of compliance.
Waitomo District Council 2016 audit had a 93% level of compliance.
Tauranga City Council Lakes 2017 audit had a 92% level of compliance
Whakatane District Council 2013 audit had a 91% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council Lakes 2016 audit had a 90% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2018 audit had a 90% level of compliance
Auckland Council (North) 2013 audit had an 90% level of compliance.
Whakatane District Council 2014 audit had a 89% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2015 audit had a 89% level of compliance
Waitomo District Council 2014 audit had a 88% level of compliance.
Tauranga City Council 2016 audit had a 88% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2011 audit had a 88% level of compliance
Waipa District Council 2016 auidt had a 88% level of compliance
Waitomo District Council 2018 audit had a 87% level of compliance.
Tauranga City Council 2014 audit had a 87% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2010 audit (Tauranga) had a 87% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2017 audit had a 86% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2012 audit (Tauranga) had a 87% level of compliance
Auckland Council (North) 2015 audit had an 86% level of compliance.
North Shore City Council 2008 audit had an 86% level of compliance.
Waitomo District Council 2013 audit had an 86% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2018 Mt Papamoa audit had a 85% level of compliance
Gisbourne District Council 2018 audit had a 84% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2017 audit (Tauranga) had a 84% level of compliance
Queenstown Lakes District Council 2016 had a 74% level of compliance.
Whakatane District Council 2013 audit had a 85% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2015 audit had a 84% level of compliance.
Gisbourne District Council 2017 audit had a 83% level of compliance
Opotiki District Counciol 2018 audit had a 83% level of compliance
Waitomo District Council 2015 audit had a 82% level of complianc
Matamata Piako District Council 2012 audit had a 81% level of compliance.
Rodney District Council 2006 audit had an 81% level of compliance
Selwyn District Council 2018 audit had an 80% level of compliance
Auckland Council (Central) 2016 audit had a 81% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2016 audit had a 80% level of compliance.
New Plymouth District Council 2016 audit had a 80% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2006 audit had a 79% level of compliance.
Queenstown District Council 2015 audit had a 79% level of compliance
Whakatane District Council 2015 audit had a 79% level of compliance
Tasman District Council 2014 audit had a 78% level of compliance
Waipa District Council 2014 audit had a 78% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2013 audit had a 78% level of compliance.
Matamata Piako District Council 2007 audit had a 75% level of compliance.
Matamata Piako District Council 2008 audit had a 77% level of compliance.
Tauranga District Council 2004 audit had a 77% level of compliance
Timaru District Council 2004 audit had a 77% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2010 audit had a 76% level of compliance.
Matamata Piako District Council 2010 audit had a 76% level of compliance.
Matamata Piako District Council 2007 audit had a 75% level of compliance.
Gisborne District Council 2016 audit had a 75% level of compliance
Queenstown Lakes District Council 2004 had a 75% level of compliance.
Benchmarking 7
5.0. Benchmarking:
The level of compliance to the playground safety standards is comparable with other Councils in New Zealand.
Waikato District Council 2014 audit had a 74% level of compliance.
Queenstown Lakes District Council 2014 had a 74% level of compliance.
Palmerston North District Council 2016 audit had a 72% level of compliance
Tauranga City Council 2008 audit had an 72% level of compliance.
Matamata Piako District Council 2009 audit had a 71% level of compliance.
Matamata Piako District Council 2010 audit had a 71% level of compliance
New Plymouth District Council 2013 audit had a 71% level of compliance
Rodney District Council 2007 audit had a 70% level of compliance
Waitomo District Council 2012 audit had a 70% level of compliance.
Hauraki District Council 2015 audit had a 69% level of compliance
Far North District Council 2015 audit had a 69% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2005 audit had a 69% level of compliance.
Waipa District Council 2012 audit had a 69% level of compliance
Hauraki District Council 2015 audit had a 69% level of compliance
Gisbourne District Council 2011 audit had a 68% level of compliance
Auckland Council (South) 2014 audit had a 68% level of compliance
Palmerston North District Council 2013 audit had a 67% level of compliance
Nelson City Council 2008 audit had a 67% level of compliance
Kaipara District Counci 2014 audit had a 67% level of compliance
Hauraki District Council 2014audit had a 66% level of compliance
Waitomo District Council 2009 audit had a 66% level of compliance.
Nelson City Council 2013 audit had a 66% level of compliance
Palmerston North District Council 2010 audit had a 63.8% level of compliance
Matamata Piako District Council 2004 audit had a 62% level of compliance.
Palmerston North District Council 2008 audit had a 61% level of compliance
New Plymouth District Council 2011 audit had a 60% level of compliance
Whangarei District Council 2004 audit had a 59% level of compliance.
Waikato District Council 2013 audit had a 55% level of compliance
Dunedin City Council 2014 audit had a 55% level of compliance
Gore District Council 2014 audit had a 54% level of compliance
Western Bay of Plenty 2011 audit had a 53% level of compliance
New Plymouth District Council 2007 audit had a 50% level of compliance
Dunedin City Council 2011 audit had a 49% level of compliance
Opotiki District Council 2016 audit had a 43% level of compliance
Hauraki District Council 2012 audit had a 47% level of compliance
Tasman District Council 2010 audit had a 42% level of compliance
Waitomo District Council 2008 audit had a 37% level of compliance.
Dunedin City Council 2007 audit had a 36% level of compliance
Western Bay of Plenty 2007 audit had a 32% level of compliance
Gore District Council 2009 audit had a 30% level of compliance
Opotiki District Council 2013 audit had a 29% level of compliance
Gisbourne District Council 2006 audit had a 25% level of compliance
Waimate District Council 2014 audit had a 16% level of compliance.
Benchmarking 8
6. Repairs and Renewals
The value of the asset is $3,791,123.00.00 The asset is an installed replacement value.
A figure $25,861.00 is required for maintenance. There are a number of maintenance issues that require immediate attention.
These have been given a number 1 priority rating under the maintenance section of the spreadsheet.
14 Items of equipment had a maintenance priority 1, with a repair value of $8,775
28 Items of equipment had a maintenance priority 2, with a repair value of $4,420
116 Items of equipment had a maintenance priority 3, with a repair value of $11,773
it should be noted that in a number of cases the maintenance cost is shown in the capital renewal column as the
item should be replaced. That the maintenance costs do not include labor costs.
Each item of equipment and surfacing has been given a renewal priority rating. There are a number of equipment and
surfacing issues that require more immediate attention. These have been given a number 1 priority rating. Some priority
renewal items have been recommended to be removed if they cannot be replaced in the short term.
6 Areas had a capital renewal priority 1, with a renewal value of $128,500
24 Areas had a capital renewal priority 2, with a renewal value of $460,620
81 Areas had a capital renewal priority 3, with a renewal value of $1,397,793
88 Areas had a capital renewal priority 4, with a renewal value of $896,456
59 Area had a capital renewal priority 5 with a renewal value of $947,753
The renewals have been prioritized to reflect the age, condition, compliance and level of risk of equipment and surfacing. The
Inspector recommends that priority one is completed within 1 year. That priority two is planned for within the next 2-3 years
and that the remaining priorities are programmed as part of the normal asset renewal programme and reflect the priority order
recommended. If items with poor or very poor condition are not replaced in the short term then extensive
maintenance should be undertaken to ensure public safety.
Repairs and Renewals 97. Basis for Recommendations
My recommendations are on the basis that the playground asset must endure a
lengthy life in a difficult environment and must ensure long-term safety for its users.
On this basis it is essential that all playground decisions be taken with a long-term
asset management perspective. I therefore believe it is more cost effective to
remove some items, rather than try and upgrade them to ensure compliance. The
new equipment can therefore give the City a 15-20 year life span with minimal
intervention and maintenance costs.
8. Playground Safety Standards
The playground safety standards that apply are as follows:
NZ5828 1986 1996 previous to April 2005
ASNZ 4486 & 4422 1997 previous to April 2005
NZS 5828:2004 April 2005 to Dec 2015
NZS 5828:2015 Dec 2015 to current
When capital renewal repairs have been recommended, they have been estimated
on the basis the installation would be to the new playground standard NZS
5828:2004. This will primarily impact on the fall zone for swings. The standard
NZS 5828:2004 requires a reduced fall zone for swings and therefore allow a
smaller area of safety surfacing.
10
Basis for Recommendations9. Capital Renewals
The Inspector recommends that the priority one rated items are acted upon as priority, and or decommissioned. There were 5
items and surfaces that had a condition rating of 5 very poor and capital renewal priority 1 and 2.
There are 17 items and surfaces with a condition rating of 4 poor.
The capital renewal recommendations vary between play equipment and under surfacing. The Inspector recommends installing
new surface with new equipment - the safety surfacing dimensions will alter with the new standards
The following items were rated condition 5 very poor
Matawai Township Module
Wahirere Domain Swings, slide, slide, surface under swings
Te Araroa Module –badly rusted parts
Waikirikiri Reserve- this site has had most of the items removed and not replaced.
Te Araroa module – missing parts throughout the module, badly rusted parts
Waihiirere Domain- this playground is in poor condition. It is a risk to Council to continue to leave this playground in the condition
that it is. If this playspace cannot be renewed in the short term then items should be removed. The slides and old swing by the
pool complex should be removed. There is a duplication of three sets of swings. It is recommended that the three sets are
removed and one new set of swings with new safety surface installed.
The Matawai Township playground (behind buildings by squash club), was assessed for the first time. This item is in poor
condition with many items of non compliance. This item should be removed if it cannot be renewed/repaired in the short term.
Protruding Bolt
Capital Renewals 119. Capital Renewals
The capital renewal recommendations vary between play equipment and under surfacing. The Inspector recommends installing
new surface with new equipment - the safety surfacing dimensions will alter with the new standards. Some of these condition 4
items could have repairs that would extend their asset life.
The following items were rated condition 4 (poor)
Adventure Playground Junior Module – if not replaced in short term major renewal needed on badly rusted parts
Adventure Playground 6 way swings – badly rusted parts, especially for age of item, rust treating and replacement of rusting worn
parts would extend asset life.
Adventure swings 6 way and preschool module
Puawaitangi Module
Te Karaka Module, skate park and hoop – the Te Karaka has new wetpour surface that has been poured around rotten timber
posts.
Wahirere swings x2 sets and seesaw and surfaces
Ayton seesaw
Kaiti Beach swings
Lysnar Fort
Nelson Fort
Titirangi Fort
Waikanae Beach Swings and spinner
Waiteata Climber
Te Araroa Module
Protruding Bolt
Capital Renewals 129. Capital Renewals
The playground at Te Araroa was in very poor condition. Some items had been replaced since 2016 audit, however, many of
the metal parts were badly rusted. They had broken and had sharp edges exposed. They were so badly rusted that they would
not support the body weight of a child if they were putting force on them.
If the playgrounds in remote areas are not visited regularly they need a higher standard of finish to ensure their ongoing safety.
These items have not been addressed since being highlighted in 2016.
Photos of badly rusted D loop, slide footings and welds at Te Araroa
Protruding Bolt
Capital Renewals 139. Capital Renewals
The playground at Te Karaka Reserve was in poor condition with the posts badly rotten posts. The probe could go through the
timber posts. The surface has been replace but was replaced around old rotting timber posts. The posts were also rotten at the
Matawai Township Playground and Puawaitangi Ruatoria Playgrounds.
Rotting posts and surface in very poor condition
Protruding Bolt
Capital Renewals 149. Capital Renewals
The playground at Waihirere Domain is in poor condition. Then entire playground and surfaces are either condition 4 or 5. The
entire playspace should be renewed and better use of the play activities. Currently there are three swing sets, and two slides,
along with a seesaw. The swings and slides could be rationalised.
Waihirere Domain swing and slides both in poor condition, with many items of non compliance to playground standards
Basketball hoops
The District has a number of basketball hoops, many of which had rusted plates that support the hoop. The hoops are
frequently held when in use. In light of recent accident on hoop and backboard failing, consideration needs to be given to the
long term lifespan on these assets and either Engineer assessment of their structural capabilities or programme renewal to
ensure public safety.
Protruding Bolt
Capital Renewals 1510.0 New Equipment
Equipment contract specifications need to identify quality requirements for the provision and
installation of the equipment. Quality must be a key component to the buying decision to
ensure long lasting quality provision.
The new playground standard NZS 5828:2004 includes many of the quality issues that were
previously not in the old playground standards.
Recommendations for new equipment:
1. A detailed inspection of the new equipment is undertaken at the contract sign off. That
warranties, product guarantees and written guarantee of compliance to the standards are Concrete filled tyre
required. in fall zone
2. That the equipment is inspected against the playground standards at sign off.
3. Installations of new equipment are signed off by the maintenance crew that will be undertaking
the ongoing maintenance of a playground. This method has proven to ensure that the quality of
the installation and those installation problems are not handed over to maintenance crews.
4. Contract specifications for new playgrounds covers quality issues such as specifying the quality
of the equipment finish, details of fixings etc. For example stainless steel bolts and fittings.
5. The playground purchase decisions are not price based but quality based. This will ensure a
longer more durable playground asset.
6. That if choosing a new supplier, that suppliers equipment is inspected in the ground and
approved prior to trialing their equipment or surface.
7. That suppliers are required to provide certification of compliance to the playground standard
NZS 5828:2004-many suppliers say they comply but cannot provide certification to prove that
they do.
New Equipment 16The new playground standards NZS 5828:2004 require an extensive range of documentation.
Included in this are the following points to be aware of:
Product Information Required:
The supplier now has to supply a range of product information in clear, simple legible English. This
is a requirement of the standard.
Information
Information should include details of:
1. Free space
2. Surfacing requirements
3. Dimensions of larges part
4. Mass of heaviest part (in kg)
5. Suggested user age range
6. Availability of spare parts list
7. Standard compliance
8. If the equipment is intended for indoor or supervised use only
9. Delivery parts list
10. Full installation instructions
11. Post-installation instructions
12. Run-in periods instructions
13. Inspection and maintenance instructions
14. Servicing instructions
15. Details of any special disposal requirements
16. Spare part numbers
Marking
1. Equipment should be permanently marked and include:
2. Manufacturer or authorised agent
3. Year of manufacture
4. Equipment reference
5. Basic level mark
6. Number and date of EN1176
This is a requirement of the standard.
New Equipment 1711.0 Entrapments
Swing Chain Finger Entrapments:
The playground standard NZS 5828:2004 identifies the size of finger entrapments in the swing suspension. There are many cases of
old swing sets with non-compliant chain. The standards are not retrospective so there is no requirement for these to be upgraded until
the unit is renewed.
At the time of renewal or for new swings it is essential to ensure that there are no finger entrapments in the swing suspension. There
are a number of ways to address this issue:
1.Purchase compliant chain. Compliant chain is available in NZ and is the most effective way to ensure there is no finger entrapment.
The chain size must have an internal diameter of less than 8.6mm in any one direction.
2. Provide a swing suspension member that is not made of chain.
3.Provide a cover over the chain. This method is problematic , if the chain cover splits or comes away then the chain exposes finger
entrapments. Further to this chain cover constantly gets cut, is broken, and has sharp edges. The chain underneath the cover cannot
be inspected for wear. We are starting to see swing chain failure as a result of chain wearing and rusting under the chain cover.
When swing suspensions are renewed ensure compliant chain is used.
Protruding Nail
Raised Nail
Photo example of non compliant chain on swings, a swing set with compliant chain and swings with chain cover
Entrapments 1811.1 Entrapments
Slide Entrapment Gap:
The entrapment of clothing toggles and consequent strangulation has caused the highest rate of deaths on play equipment
worldwide. This issue is not clearly identified in the previous New Zealand Playground Standards. I have therefore raised it as a
safety issue. However, the entrapment is measurable under the NZS: 5828 2004 standard.
A toggle entrapment probe was used to measure for any entrapment gaps at the top of slides. A gap or diminishing wedge at the
top of a slide may allow clothing to catch before a child descends down the slide. The entrapments are a result of poor installation
methods, deck to slide design and or the movement and shifting of plastics.
The gap can normally easily be filled with silicone.
Seesaw Entrapments:
Children often lie on the top middle of a seesaw, as shown in the photo. There fingers can get entrapped in the moving
mechanism. There are a number of seesaws with a loose fitting at the centre bearing allowing a gap for finger entrapments. I
recommend covering the centre fitting with the rubber guard if the central fitting cannot be tightened. Cover the entire fixing so that
children’s fingers cannot enter the area of movement at the centre of the seesaw bearing.
slide entrapment gap and possible finger entrapments on seesaws
Protruding Nail
Raised Nail
Entrapments 1912. Safety Surfacing
There has been a change to many of the sites from bark to cushionfall loosefill. This will
improve the maintenance requirements. High use sites such as Adventure playground
would benefit to changing to cushionfall.
When new playgrounds are installed consider inground surface with drainage rather than
above ground raised timber edges. The edges become a maintenance issue and provide a
barrier for access to all.
Common maintenance issues were:
Concrete filled tyre
in fall zone
•Edges coming apart in the corners
•Timber edges warped and splitting
•Badly scuffed out surfaces, particular under swings.
Installation of scuff mats would greatly assist the badly scuffed out surfaces that were
apparent throughout the District.
Drainage: there is evidence of poor drainage at a number of sites. Heath Johnston had very
poor drainage associated with it.
Protruding Bolt
20
Safety Surfacing13.0 Maintenance
The level of maintenance was of a variable standard. In some cases the maintenance was thorough, but then other areas the
maintenance had some serious flaws that were not being picked up. These items were a hazard and need immediate
attention.
The improvement of the swing chain and connections has resulted in no finger entrapments.
There were a number of items that had serious flaws, that were clearly not being attended to.
Many of the playgrounds are in coastal locations, as such rust is always going to be of a concern.
It is essential that as rust starts to appear, that it is treated. This will help extend the asset life.
The rural playgrounds had particular poor maintenance. Most of the surfaces were very scuffed. If scuff mats were installed
in the rural sites it would help extend the length of time between visits. Also the switch out of the old style swing seats – (with
the light metal plate) to the Rubber bits type of swing seats. This would also extend the need for more regular visits. These
are the items that tend to go deteriorate quickly.
Many of the swing seats were set too low and therefore affecting compliance.
The playground at Te Karaka Recreation Ground has numerous nails exposed and lifted throughout.
Maintenance 21It is recognised that it is difficult to maintain an aging asset. In some cases the equipment is past its useful life, this makes
keeping the equipment safe difficult.
There were a number of items identified in the spreadsheet that should be addressed as part of the maintenance program. The
Contractor is missing some items, these are identified on the spreadsheet. The most common maintenance issues were:
• Wooden surface edge and wooden equipment decking are prone to warping and shrinking. This causes gaps and exposes
sharp edges and nails. Splintering and splitting of wood was also observed. To plane or sand down these sharpsfilled
Concrete should
tyre
minimize the risk of injury to children. in fall zone
• Rusting items leaving sharp broken edges.
• Numerous examples of timber decks splitting and splintering. A lot of the timbers are old and worn, hence they split and lift.
These need to be planed back to remove sharp splinters
• The bark/loosefill surfaces were generally in good condition, however most of the swings had scuff particularly under swing
seats. The installation of scuff mats under swing areas would reduce ongoing maintenance.
• The swing seat heights sometimes impacts on compliance. The preschool swing seat should be installed at a range
of between 350m and 635mm. The maximum junior swing seat height is a recommendation only. The senior swing
seat height is a requirement to be installed between 350mm and 635mm high.
• The equipment was frequently dirty and mossy. Evidence of the damp environment, but water blasting would improve the
appearance of the equipment significantly.
• Tiles and mats missing, clearly if one mat gets lifted it will encourage the removal of others. It is essential to ensure any mat
lifting is repaired immediately to alleviate ongoing vandalism.
• Swing seats, numerous examples of the swing seat plate lifted and being sharp. Swing seats split, ripped or perished.
Maintenance 2214.1 Maintenance- Rusting Parts
Many of the parks are on coastal locations. As such they undergo an extreme amount of rust. There are many components
where the structural integrity of the item is suspect due to the rust. These items would need to be replaced.
Rust develops over a number of years, if caught at the early stage and treated, it can significantly extend the lifespan of the
item.
Severity of corrosion -- Is the corrosion evident only by pin-holes, by shallow or deep pitting, by blistering or scaling, by
tubercles and nodules, by peeling, or by substrata embitterment, porosity or cavities? This will determine the type and degree
of maintenance needed.
• 1. surface powder- action can be taken
• 2. pitting
• 3. exfoliation
• 4 disintegration- too late
Eliminate the corrosion
– Remove by mechanical means, e.g. sandblasting, abrasive wheel, sandpaper, scotch bright.
– Remove by chemical means, e.g. rust converter
Prevent further corrosion
– Restore original surface finish e.g. cold galv, PA10, or some other surface sealant
Maintenance 2314.2 Maintenance- Swing seat heights
Swing seats: The height of the swing seat impacts on the compliance of the swing set. The swing seat height shall
be set at the following heights:
senior swing seat: Minimum ground clearance at rest 350mm
single point swing (e.g. tyre swing) Minimum ground clearance of 400mm
There is no maximum seat height but it is generally recommended to be no more than 635mm.
If the senior swing seat is a band type seat, it is measured while loaded.
Concrete filled tyre
in fall zone
If the swing seat is set an appropriate height it impacts on the scuff under the swing. Clearly if the seat is too low
there will be a higher degree of scuff under the swing seat.
Maintenance 2414.3 Maintenance
There is an ongoing issue with the swing seats being used by Gisborne District.
When ordering new swings most suppliers with supply the rubber bits or Delta
swing seats if requested.
Swing seats: The type of swing seat being used by the city is wrought with
problems, the metal plates lift and become sharp, the seat’s rubbish perishes
and allows water into the inner plate. This in turn rusts and breaks. The type of
swing seat currently being used by the District requires frequent renewal. Concrete filled tyre
There are two alternative manufacturers in New Zealand making swing seats in fall zone
that have had the problems designed out of them. They get a considerable
longer life out of these swing seats.
The Inspector recommends using an alternative seat to reduce maintenance
replacements. A Company in Wellington is producing swing seats of a different
design that does not have the problem of plates lifting. The swing seat is called
‘Rubber bits’ and trades under the name of Industrial conveyors Ltd, 12
Victoria Street, PO Box 30598, Petone. 04 568 6983 and fax 04 568 6536.
Alternatively Dunedin District Council are making their own swing seats, and
may produce them for others.
Rubber bits swing seat and Delta
Maintenance swing seats
2514.4 Maintenance- scuff mats under high wear areas
There was a constant problem with the high wear areas being badly
scuffed out. In many cases the compliance and impact absorption
qualities of the surface was compromised by the high scuff areas.
In order to rectify this issue it is recommended that scuff mats are
installed under high wear areas.
Concrete filled tyre
in fall zone
The All Safe large scuff mats, come in a size of 1.2 x1m.
Installation methodology is to place a pile of cushionfall at ground
level.
Mats are laid over the top of the cushionfall and pegged in 8 places
The cushionfall is returned around the mat exposing only the top
approx. 500x500mm.
The aim is that only an area of scuff mat is exposed with all the
edges
and corners well covered by cushionfall.
This should reduce the need for constant relocation of scuffed Scuff mats successfully installed into loosefill.
loosefill material.
Maintenance 2614.5 Recommended Maintenance:
• That the items of repairs identified in the spreadsheet are undertaken on a priority
basis.
• Items with a priority 1 that cannot be attended to in the short term, be secured off
from use until they are repaired.
• That a weekly maintenance inspection is undertaken on all playgrounds,
accompanied by a weekly inspection sheet detailing the inspection and
recommended actions.
• That scuff mats and Rubber Bits swing seats are installed in the rural areas.
• That the Rubber Bits or Delta swing seats are used in any replacements
• That a detailed safety inspection is undertaken on an annual basis.
• That intensively used playgrounds receive a higher level of maintenance,
undertaken more frequently and receive a more frequent renewal programme.
• That Capital funding is allocated on a priority basis identifying high use playgrounds
as top priority.
Protruding Bolt
27
MaintenanceAppendix 1
Appendix
Pricing assumptions
Sites inspected
Attachments
Spreadsheet and photo report
Appendix 28Appendix 1
(i) PRICING ASSUMPTIONS:
The value of repairs was made on current market rates for the supply of materials.
Capital value items are priced as follows:
Pricing Assumptions 291 Te Araroa Community Playground 25 Blackpool fitness
2 Te Araroa skate park 26 Centennial Crescent Reserve
3 Kahukura Tikitiki Playground 27 Adventure Playground
4 Puawaitangi Ruatoria Playground 28 Olympic pools
5 Te Puia Hospital Community Playground 29 Emily Street Reserve
6 Tokumaru Bay Foreshore Reserve 30 Anzac Park Playground
7 tokurmaru bay fitness 31 Kaiti Memorial
8 Uawa Tolaga Bay 32 London Street Reserve
9 Makarori Playground 33 Tyndall road Reserve
10 Lysnar Domain 34 Waikiriki Reserve
11 Wainui Beach 35 Ida Road / Ralph Street Playground
12 Waikanae Beach Reserve 36 Coldstream Road Reserve
13 Alfred Cox Park 37 Heath Johnston Park
14 Botanical Gardens 38 Titirangi Playground
15 Ayton Park 39 Titirangi plus fitness
16 Barry Park Reserve 40 Kaiti Beach Swing Set
17 Atkinson Street Reserve 41 Patutahi Reserve
18 Mary Street Reserve 42 Waihirere Domain
19 Mangapapa Reserve 43 Waihirere Domain
20 Waiteata Park Playground 44 Ormond Domain
21 Lytton West 45 Te Karaka Recreation Ground
22 Nelson Road Playground 46 Matawai Recreation Ground
23 Abbott Street Reserve 47 Matawai Township
24 Blackpool Street Reserve 48 Matawai Township
Sites Inspected 30Table 1 - Condition Grading Standards Table 2 – Priority Rating Maintenance
(Assessment or Asset Condition on a scale 0-5) (The relative maintenance urgency of an asset on a scale 0-3)
PRAMS condition rating
Grade Priority General Meaning
Grad
e Condition General Meaning 0 Non-existent No work required
The asset has a high likelihood or
consequence of failure. Failure could cause
Non- Asset absent or no longer 1 High loss of life or injury.
0 existent exists The asset has a moderate likelihood of
Sound physical condition no failure and/or serious physical injury or loss
could occur in event of failure, or failure of a
1 Excellent work required 2 Medium component part.
Acceptable physical condition; The asset has a low likelihood of failure
minimal short term failure risk and/or any resulting physical injury or loss
but potential for deterioration 3 Low would be minor.
only minor work required (if
Table 3 – Priority Rating Capital Renewal
2 Good any) (The relative urgency of capital renewal of an asset on a scale 0-5)
Significant deterioration Grade Priority General Meaning
evident; failure unlikely in near
0 Non-existent Not applicable/equipment does not exist.
future but further deterioration The asset has a high likelihood or
consequence of failure. Failure could cause
likely Work required but asset 1 High loss of life or injury.
3 Average is still serviceable The asset has a moderate likelihood of
failure and/or serious physical injury or loss
Failure likely in short term could occur in event of failure, or failure of a
Substantial work required in 2 Moderate component part.
The asset has a low to moderate likelihood
short term, asset barely of failure and/or serious physical injury or
4 Poor serviceable 3 Low Moderate
loss could occur in event of failure, or failure
of a component part.
Failure or failure The asset has a low likelihood of failure
imminent/safety risk Major and/or any resulting physical injury or loss
4 Low would be minor.
work or replacement required The structure of sound physical condition
5 Very Poor urgently and is unlikely to fail in a sudden or
dangerous manner. Programme
5 Not urgent replacement for end of lifespan.
Prams Rating
PRAMS Ratings 311 Te Araroa Community Playground 25 Blackpool fitness
2 Te Araroa skate park 26 Centennial Crescent Reserve
3 Kahukura Tikitiki Playground 27 Adventure Playground
4 Puawaitangi Ruatoria Playground 28 Olympic pools
5 Te Puia Hospital Community Playground 29 Emily Street Reserve
6 Tokumaru Bay Foreshore Reserve 30 Anzac Park Playground
7 tokurmaru bay fitness 31 Kaiti Memorial
8 Uawa Tolaga Bay 32 London Street Reserve
9 Makarori Playground 33 Tyndall road Reserve
10 Lysnar Domain 34 Waikiriki Reserve
11 Wainui Beach 35 Ida Road / Ralph Street Playground
12 Waikanae Beach Reserve 36 Coldstream Road Reserve
13 Alfred Cox Park 37 Heath Johnston Park
14 Botanical Gardens 38 Titirangi Playground
15 Ayton Park 39 Titirangi plus fitness
16 Barry Park Reserve 40 Kaiti Beach Swing Set
17 Atkinson Street Reserve 41 Patutahi Reserve
18 Mary Street Reserve 42 Waihirere Domain
19 Mangapapa Reserve 43 Waihirere Domain
20 Waiteata Park Playground 44 Ormond Domain
21 Lytton West 45 Te Karaka Recreation Ground
22 Nelson Road Playground 46 Matawai Recreation Ground
23 Abbott Street Reserve 47 Matawai Township
24 Blackpool Street Reserve 48 Matawai Township
Sites Inspected 32Park Central
Park and Playground
Solutions Ltd
Tina Dyer – Director
tina@parkcentral.co.nz
mob 021 764 250
54 Norfolk Street
Ponsonby
Auckland 1021
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