Childsplay passes wheelchair access test with flying colours
Leading artificial turf surfacing supplier Notts Sport has demonstrated its innovative ChildsPlay system is the ideal choice for promoting inclusive play, after the system passed wheelchair accessibility tests.
The tests were carried out in accordance with ASTM F1951-09b, the standard specification in the USA for surface systems under and around playground equipment, measuring the energy needed to move a wheelchair over the surface, both in a straight line and turning 90 degrees.
The results for the ChildsPlay 300 System were well within the requirements of the test criteria and, with no equivalent European (EN) standard yet in force, they prove that ChildsPlay is ahead of the game in providing safer play for all.
Shaun Patrick, Chairman of Notts Sport, said: "Our ChildsPlay system is the perfect choice for schools and local authorities looking to provide facilities which promote inclusive play.
"The colourful, tactile surface offers unlimited potential for patterns and games, making it mentally and physically stimulating, while remaining accessible to all levels of ability including wheelchair users - as these new test results confirm.
"This means ChildsPlay gives children of different ages and abilities the chance to interact and have fun together and can increase the opportunity for exercise, play and learning for all."
The ChildsPlay 300 tested comprised the slip-resistant VHAF NottsSward sand-filled artificial turf carpet overlying NottsFilm Stiff Geotextile Fabric and two layers of NottsBase EPP 40 polypropylene tile.
The surface and underlying elements of the ChildsPlay system combine to offer a playground that is clean and quick-draining after rain, and resistant to cutting, fire and graffiti. The cost-effective system also requires minimal maintenance over its long lifetime.
ChildsPlay can include varying levels of shock absorbent layering beneath the VHAF NottsSward artificial turf, offering critical fall height protection of up to three metres.
The synthetic turf carpet is available in 15 colours, and can be laid over shapes, mounds and hollows. Whatever colour or form it takes, the textured, tactile carpet also has great sensory appeal.
With ChildsPlay Active, sport, play and education can be combined in one cost-effective 'outdoor classroom' with colourful patterns to promote exercise and social interaction and incorporating key elements of the National Curriculum.
Notts Sport can offer expert advice on creating an area using ready-made patterns and innovative designs for play - or bespoke ideas can be brought to life using the latest laser technology.