WHILE YOU WERE AWAY...
09 Feb 2017
New changes to Australian Standards for playground surfacing present the playground industry with a few challenges that may have far reaching implications.
While you were on holidays, things were changing… A new Playground Surfacing Standard (AS44222:2016) was released on 7 November 2016.
The year has just begun but it’s already obvious that recent Australian Standards changes and a Tasmanian Building Code update will have far-reaching implications for the Playground Industry.
For purchasers, specifiers, owners and occupiers of land or premises with playgrounds it means that impact testing is now required at the commissioning of new surfaces (page 4, pgh 1 AS 4422:2016). This does not include tile or factory pad type systems which are pre-certified and quality controlled. Testing using Triaxial equipment has also been included.
In an unusual step, the standard applies from the date of publication, with no changeover period. Without providing a reasonable time for adoption of the new standard, this creates an unenforceable issue for purchasers, manufacturers and installers with product certified prior to the Standards release but not yet installed. CCEP advise a rational approach.
The release of an updated building code for Tasmania on 19 December 2016 saw a playground now clearly defined as a Class 10b Structure under the Building Code/National Construction Code (NCC) Tasmania. This cements any grey area as to the standards a playground installed as a Class 10b structure is required to meet. CCEP expect to see other states formally follow suit in due course as it has set a precedent that cannot be ignored.
To view the full Industry Advisory CLICK HERE
CCEP continues to provide professional, highly trained staff to identify risks and issues upfront and offer best practice solutions and recommendations. To find out more about their services visit www.ccep.com.au or call direct on 1300 959 732