prt 406 risk management plan

COMMUNITY PARK

RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN

Mary George Finch

Darrell Davis

Jeff Gonza

PRT 406 – Dr. Kanters

11/30/10

Risk Management Plan

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Table of Contents

Agency Description and Analysis ............................................................... 3-4

Risks and Liabilities ................................................................................... 5-13

Risk Management Plan ............................................................................ 14-26

Appendix .................................................................................................. 27-41

References ................................................................................................ 42-43


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STEP 1 – Agency Description; Programs and Services

Agency Description

The park includes walking trails, picnic shelters, a baseball field, and a playground.

Within these areas there are several services provided. Walking trails may be used for

exercise such as walking, running, or hiking, as well as to observe nature or even take

photos. Picnic shelters are often used as a resting place for parents to watch their children

play. They are also used more organizationally for birthday parties and other group

events, as well as for a casual afternoon picnic. Our baseball facility, Darrell Davis

Municipal Stadium, is primarily used for recreational “pick-up” baseball, but is also

periodically used for community baseball leagues or high school baseball team practices

and games. Lastly, a community park playground is most often used as a place for

parents to bring their children to play. However, they are also often used as a sight for

birthday parties and other group events involving young children.

The attached baseball complex is made up of three baseball fields, as well as

batting cages for all different ages. There is a plethora of tedious duties required to

maintain a community complex range, such as that of the owner/manager to ensure a safe

recreational surrounding for the community being served. This stadium complex caters to

all age groups, but will not participate in housing little leagues.

DDMS is powered toward generating safe and enjoyable facilities for amateur

baseball players of all ages. This facility spans 15 acres and houses three separate fields

with bleachers, three batting cages, dugouts, restrooms, manual scoreboards, an infield

tarp, and grass infield. The fields are divided into the three levels of competition

Little league accessible – 200 ft. centerfield 190 ft. through right/left fields

Major League field – 375 ft. centerfield 360ft. through right/left fields

Interscholastic fields – 330 ft. centerfield 300 ft. through right/left fields

The general dimensions for the different levels of competition are based on the basic

rules and regulations of the High School Athletic Associations, NCAA, and Little League

Baseball. All three fields will have these features regardless of level of competition.

Listed below are the features of each field:

* Specific to any one field

- 25 foot. Fence behind backstop

- Aluminum Bleachers

We believe in being positive facilitators of the game of baseball for the general public.

We strive to provide a safe and secure atmosphere for ALL those participating in

activities within our facility. We provide an arena for optimal performance in the sport of

baseball. We have fields to play on, stands to watch them from, and batting cages to

practice on and improve your skills.

In addition to the above-mentioned features, the park has a playground that is suitable

for kids of all ages. Parents can also appreciate the fact that there are plenty of picnic

areas nearby from which they can watch their children play. Some visitors throw


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birthday parties as well as other events at the playground so their kids can play and adults

can socialize under the shade.

The playground has different areas with different elements that are suitable for the

appropriate age groups. These areas are separated as to ensure the safety of younger

children that may be playing. It is important to remember that supervision is the only

way to keep kids completely safe. This is particularly important with younger children.

It is our responsibility to remove any and all hazards but it is impossible to completely

remove every risk associated with playing on a playground. The Playground is set up to

be appropriate for:

Toddlers (6-23 months old)

Pre-School (2-5 years old)

Grade School (5-12 years old)

We recognize the significant opportunities playground offer children in their growth

and development. Playgrounds offer kids chances to interact with children and test their

capabilities as they conquer each element of the playground. We offer a vast array of

playground equipment and different elements that kids can enjoy while offering them the

safest experience possible.

(Figure 1: Playground toys at Banburry Park – Raleigh, NC)

The park also has a number of trails and picnic shelters that people can use. There

are a number of different paths and trails to choose from to suit your personal fitness

needs and the scenery makes for an enjoyable run. Paths and trails when completed in

their entirety can range from 1-5 miles depending on the route you take. There are also

approximately 12 picnic shelters throughout the park where people can stop to rest, catch

some shade, or hold social gatherings with friends and family. There are grills available

for use as well as plenty of picnic tables for seating.


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STEP 2 – Risks and Liabilities

Walking Trails

Walking trails in a community park host a variety of potential risks and liabilities for

the park owners. Below are detailed evaluations of these potential risks and issues.

Trail surfaces, railings and bridges

Park visitors run the risk of tripping over exposed roots or uneven ground surfaces,

leading to potentially harmful accidents and injury. Similarly railings with sharp edges

can lead to injury. On the same token, a lack of railings in crucial places such as over

bridges or by drop-offs, can lead to serious accident and injury (Wagner, 2007).

Location

Without many or any park staff members, it is difficult to keep watch over visitors on

walking trails. For this reason, any risk that can be prevented through the use of maps and

signs should be. Along these lines, visitors run the risk of becoming lost when there are

multiple walking trails without proper signage. Especially if a visitor is traveling alone,

he or she would have no way of seeking help. Additionally, if a visitor was injured on the

walking trails for any reason and could not find his or her way back to the parking lot, the

injury could become significantly more serious and could be the reason for a visitor’s

death.

Rules

Alcohol consumption is a community park is always a big risk and can easily lead to

accidents and injuries. Park rules should be established and made known to visitors to

help prevent any easily avoidable dangers. This includes the prohibition of alcohol as

well as rules regarding who may use the walking trails. If a park allows horseback riding

on its trails or use of All Terrain Vehicles or dirt bikes, this opens up a larger margin for

accidents and injuries. A walker or runner approaching a horse on the walking trails can

cause a confrontation and the horse could become frightened and dangerous to the

walker. On the same token, a walker is at great risk if he or she is sharing a trail with

motorized vehicles (Comeau, 2010). Rules must be established for proper trail etiquette

when it pertains to sharing trails among walkers, joggers, and horseback riders. The same

goes for bike riders. Collisions could be extremely dangerous between a bike rider and a

walker.

Hours

The use of a community park past nightfall presents a danger to visitors. The visitor

likely cannot see well and therefore poses a threat to him or herself. Any regular

dangerous activity that goes on late at night, which might occur on park grounds, would

leave the park liable. For this reason, park hours should be established and made known

to all visitors. In parks with visitor centers, the staff will be leaving when the park closes.

If a visitor is still on a walking trail after hours and becomes injured and in need of

assistance, there would be no one present at the park to help.


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Wildlife

Accident and injury may occur when visitors come in contact with dangerous or

poisonous animals or wildlife. Most visitors likely do not know how to identify

dangerous animals or wildlife and how to react when they have come into contact with

these dangers. This presents a large risk especially to those visitors who are alone.

Weather and Climate

In an outdoor park, visitors run the risk of exposing themselves to adverse weather

conditions. In the event that a storm should approach, visitors are at risk for being struck

by lightening, or being injured by extreme winds. Snow or ice and heavy rains also pose a

risk. These conditions can lead to slippery ground surfaces, flooding, and can also make

the ground invisible. Visitors are at greater risk when they do not know what type of

surface they are standing on.

(Figure 2: Bridge on walking trail at Lake Johnson Park – Raleigh, NC)

(Figure 3: Walking trail and map at Lake Johnson Park – Raleigh, NC)


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Baseball Area

In order to have an efficiently operated service, it is important to take into account

the risks and liabilities associated with the service. When providing a sporting service

where injuries are prevalent, safety becomes an issue. To ensure that the baseball area is

in compliance with safety requirements, we set high regulatory standards for us, as well

as the general public who use the facility. The 2nd

edition of Sport Law “A Managerial

Approach” outlines the many ways to minimize liability in chapter 2.

Risks and liabilities, as well as the procedures for handling such circumstances,

are detailed below.

(Figure 4: Baseball field and fence at Fred Fletcher Park – Raleigh, NC)

Potentially Hazardous Issues

Bleacher safety

Field Maintenance and rules

Players or bystanders struck by stray ball or hit by pitch

Damage caused stray bats and broken bats

Almost all of these hazards and many more can be eliminated ahead of time with good

risk management. With the exception of competition being held, the risks and liabilities

decrease considerably naturally. Even within competition, with the proper child

supervision a lot of risks can be prevented. Here is a little more on the risks and hazards

that are evident at our facilities.

Bleacher Safety

Bleacher safety is a big concern in regard to the safety of people that visit the park.

The Federal Safety Agency (FSA) has reported significant statistical evidence to prove

the risks that are involved with having bleachers at your facilities. The agency reported

19 deaths involving falls from bleachers from 1991 to 2003 and in 1999, there were


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22,100 bleacher-associated injuries requiring emergency room treatment. 4,910 falls that

involved children under the age of 15. The FSA has also reported that 28% of those

injuries were the result of falls from the bleachers onto a surface below and that serious

injuries typically result from falls between seats and floorboards and between guardrails.

While it doesn’t happen often, bleachers have collapsed completely due to structural

faults. Most all injuries are due to fall hazards.

Fall Hazards

Missing or defective guardrails: on the sides, the back, or (if elevated) the front

Large openings between components: typically between the seating and the

guardrails, or between seats and floorboards that are big enough for a child or

adult to pass through

Excessive guardrail space: e.g., between the bottom rail and the mid-rail

Unprotected spaces between guardrails: open areas neither fenced nor provided

with vertical rails

Access steps to seating: missing or no handrails for support

Structural collapse or tipping of the structure: failure to properly install or anchor

system

Incomplete work: hazard areas not protected or secured between work shifts

Field Maintenance

It is important to keep up with the condition of the field to ensure the safety of those

playing on the fields. Fields receive normal wear and tear throughout the year and things

such as inclement weather can also have a significant effect on the condition of the

playing field. Fields that aren’t in suitable playing condition may put participants at risk

for potential injuries. The infield and outfield grass must be tended to as needed and

routine maintenance such as dragging or raking the infield is essential in the upkeep of

the field.

Foul Balls and other flying objects

Foul balls and other flying objects such as bats are always a concern for those in

charge of the park. While it is part of the game, it creates potential for injury if players or

spectators are struck by these dangerous, flying objects. The potential for serious injury,

especially head injuries, is possible at any baseball field. There are steps that can reduce

the risk but nothing can completely eliminate this risk.

Restroom Maintenance

An outside cleaning service will be hired to clean the baseball area restrooms every

other night after park hours in order to maintain a clean and healthy environment for

visitors. This includes making sure the restrooms present no risks such as wet floors due

to weather or leaks, broken doors, or malfunctioning locks.


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Picnic Shelters

Whether using a picnic shelter simply as a place to stop and rest or as a sight for a

birthday party or other large gathering, picnic shelters pose another variety of risks for

accident and injury.

Rain

Most picnic shelters include a hard cement floor and a wide roof covering the entire

area. In the instance that it should rain and the cement ground becomes wet and slick,

anyone using the shelter becomes at risk for slipping and injuring themselves or others.

Sturdiness

In the event that the picnic shelter should become old and begin to deteriorate, the

benches and roofing become unsafe to visitors. Visitors could injure themselves if any

piece of the shelter were to come lose and fall on someone. Or if a bench were to collapse

under a visitor, that visitor would likely injure him or herself.

Grill

Many community park picnic shelters are designed for groups of people to enjoy the

use of a grill in the outdoors. However, the presence of a grill poses a huge threat to those

who may not know how to use it, and especially to young children. If a young child is not

under careful watch, he or she could easily burn his or herself on the grill and become

significantly injured. Adults may also become injured when using open flame and gas

lighters.

Rules

As with the walking trails and any other park feature, the picnic shelters can pose a

new set of risks and threats if visitors do not understand and abide by park rules. Alcohol

and firearms can create an extremely risky and dangerous atmosphere is they are present

in a community park.

Reservations

Depending on the size of the park, if a party were to occur in a picnic shelter without

the knowledge of park staff, those visitors involved could put themselves at serious risk.

Lack of knowledge of a party’s whereabouts may cause a miscommunication. If injury

were to occur in the park picnic shelter without staff members being aware of the party’s

presence, staff may not be able to help the visitors get to safety.

Hours

As with the waking trails, visitors who are in park picnic shelters after hours put

themselves at risk for higher accident or injury. Dangerous people wandering out at night

could potentially pose a threat to park visitors after hours.


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(Figure 5: Picnic shelter at Lake Johnson Park – Raleigh, NC)

Playgrounds

There is a significant difference between a risk and a hazard. A risk is something

participants are willing to take and implies the voluntary taking of a chance. If a four-

year-old looks down our eight-foot slide and decides it is worth the risk and goes for it, it

is his choice to try the slide. It is our responsibility to make certain the experience is as

free of hazards as possible.

A playground hazard is something that is hidden, an unforeseen or unexpected danger

to the unsuspecting. Hazards are dangerous and can potentially cause bodily injury.

Hazards are our responsibility and we take every step to make sure we are aware of all

potential hazards and take the proper steps to eliminate them. Children, in their

enthusiasm to play, cannot be expected to recognize hazards, so we take pride and

responsibility in making sure there are none.

Playground injuries are a legitimate concern as the U. S. Consumer Product Safety

Commission reports over 200,000 estimated emergency room-treated injuries annually.

The most recent study of 2,691 playground equipment-related incidents reported to the

CPSC from 2001-2008 indicated that falls are the most common hazard pattern (44% of

injuries) followed by equipment-related hazards, such as breakage, tip over, design, and

assembly (23%). Other hazard patterns involved entrapment and colliding other children

or stationary equipment. Playground-related deaths reported to the Commission involved

entanglement of ropes, leashes, or clothing; falls; and impact from equipment tip over or

structural failure.


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(Figure 6: Playground at Banburry Park – Raleigh, NC)

Hazards that must be addressed include:

The potential for falls from and impact with equipment

The need for impact attenuating protective surfacing under and around equipment

Openings with the potential for head entrapment

The scale of equipment and other design features related to user age and layout of

equipment on a playground

Installation and maintenance procedures

General hazards presented by protrusions, sharp edges, and crush or shear points

Improper Protective Surfacing

The surface or ground under/around the playground equipment should be soft enough

to cushion a fall. A fall onto one of these hard surfaces could be life threatening and there

are many surfaces that offer protection from falls.

Inadequate Use Zone

A use zone is the area under and around playground equipment where a child might

fall. A use zone should be covered with protective surfacing material and extend a

minimum of six feet in all directions from the edge of stationary play equipment, such as

climbers and chin-up bars.

Protrusion & Entanglement Hazards

A protrusion hazard is a component or piece of hardware that is capable of impaling or

cutting a child, if a child should fall against the hazard. Some protrusions are also capable

of catching strings or items of clothing worn around a child’s neck. This type of

entanglement is especially hazardous because it might result in strangulation.


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Entrapment in Openings Enclosed openings on playground equipment must be checked for head entrapment

hazards. Children often enter openings feet first and attempt to slide through the opening.

If the opening is not large enough, it may allow the body to pass through the opening but

entrap the head. Generally, there should be no openings on playground equipment that

measure between 3.5 to 9 inches. Where the lower boundary of the opening is formed by

the protective surfacing, the opening is not considered to be hazardous.

Insufficient Equipment Spacing

Improper spacing between pieces of play equipment can cause overcrowding of a play

area, resulting in unsafe play conditions. Each item of play equipment has a use zone

around it where protective surfacing material is applied. These use zones may overlap for

certain types of equipment.

Trip Hazards

Trip hazards are created by play structure components or items on the playground.

Common trip hazards often found in play environments include:

• Exposed concrete footings

• Abrupt changes in surface elevations

• Tree roots

• Tree stumps

• Rocks

Lack of Supervision

The supervision of a playground environment directly relates to the overall safety of the

environment. A play area should be designed so that it is easy for a parent or caregiver to

observe the children at play. Young children are constantly challenging their own

abilities, often not being able to recognize potential hazards. Parents must supervise

their children at all times on the playground!

Age-Inappropriate Activities

Children’s developmental needs vary greatly from age two to age 12. In an effort to

provide a challenging and safe play environment for all ages, it is important to make sure

that the equipment in the playground setting is appropriate for the age of the intended

user. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission does not recommend the following

for preschool users – free-standing arch climbers, free-standing flexible climbers, chain

and cable walks, fulcrum seesaws, log rolls, track rides or vertical sliding poles.

Lack of Maintenance

In order for playgrounds to remain in “safe” condition, a program of systematic,

preventative maintenance must be present:

• There should be no missing, broken or worn-out components

• All hardware should be secure

• The wood, metal or plastic should not show signs of fatigue or deterioration

• All parts should be stable with no apparent signs of loosening

• Surfacing material must be maintained


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• Check for signs of vandalism

Crush, Shearing and Sharp Edge Hazards

Components in the play environment should be inspected to make sure there are no sharp

edges or points that could penetrate skin. Moving components such as suspension

bridges, track rides, merry-go-rounds, seesaws and swings should be checked to ensure

there are no moving parts or mechanisms that might crush a child’s finger.

Platforms with No Guardrails

Elevated surfaces such as platforms, ramps, and bridges should have guardrails or

barriers to help prevent accidental falls.

Preschool age children are more at risk for falls; therefore equipment intended for this

age

group should have:

• Guardrails on elevated platforms higher than 20 inches

• Protective barriers on platforms higher than 30 inches

Equipment intended for school-age children should have:

• Guardrails on elevated platforms higher than 30 inches

• Protective barriers on platforms above 48 inches

Equipment Not Recommended for Public Playgrounds

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that many types of

equipment not be used on public playgrounds.


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STEP 3 – Risk Management

Risk Management is defined as, “the function of process by which [an organization]

identifies and manages the risks of liability that rise from its activities” (Sharp, Moorman,

& Claussen, 2010). However, risk management does not always cover every potential

risk. Instead, we use preventive law, which covers a broader range of all risks that could

negatively affect the park’s financial standing.

We have stated all potential risks identified as possibly occurring in a community

park, assessed these risks, and evaluated these risks. Here we will detail the preventive

law plan, or the steps to be taken in the event that one of the stated risks should occur. In

preventive law, there are four possible strategies to undertake with risks: risk elimination,

risk retention, risk transfer, and risk control (Sharp, Moorman, & Claussen, 2010).

1. Risk Elimination: This is not a preferred strategy, and is used only when the risk

is significantly greater than the benefits of carrying out the activity or operation in

the organization (Sharp, Moorman, & Claussen, 2010).

2. Risk Retention: This strategy involves the organization carrying all financial

consequences of an activity (Sharp, Moorman, & Claussen, 2010).

3. Risk Transfer: In this strategy, the potential financial loss is transferred to

another entity. This is most often seen when an organization is insured, shifting

the financial obligations to the insurance company. We also use this method when

participants are asked to sign a waiver agreeing not to sue the organization in the

instance of negligence (Sharp, Moorman, & Claussen, 2010).

4. Risk Control: This is the only preventive law strategy that actually deals with

reducing potential risks. Rather than coming up with strategies to deal with the

financial loses associated with a risk, this method seeks to reduce all risks,

especially those that occur because of poor management (Sharp, Moorman, &

Claussen, 2000).

Our preventive law plan involves steps associated with one or all of these four

strategies. We will further implement this preventive law plan through our policies and

procedures, contracts, training programs, and evaluation procedures (Sharp, Moorman, &

Claussen, 2010).

Walking Trails

Trail surfaces, railings and bridges

In order to prevent park visitors from injuring themselves on uneven surfaces on

walking trails, protocol includes spraying severe roots with neon colored paint as well as


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posting various signs warning visitors of the risk of tripping. As part of our park

maintenance checklist, staff will be required to walk the trails periodically to check for

roots and other trip hazards that need to be highlighted or removed. Trees and bushes

must periodically be pruned to prevent easy injury by extending into the trails (Wagner,

2007). Especially after heavy winds or a rainstorm, staff must walk the trails and remove

any limbs or fallen trees that are blocking the path or creating extra risk for injuring

visitors. Security of railings should also be periodically checked as well as that of

bridges, small or large. All maintenance checklists should be documented.

Location

Due to the risk of visitors becoming lost in the woods, protocol involves posting

periodic signs and maps detailing where the visitor is in relation to the parking lot as well

as other trails. These maps should provide the visitor with ample information to find his

or her way out of the woods. The visitor should be able to calculate approximately how

many miles they are from the nearest parking lot and visit center if there is one. A phone

number for the visitor center or a wildlife officer should be posted on these signs in case

of an emergency whereas the visitor needs to reach a staff member or trained help. This

phone number is only helpful if the visitor is carrying his or her cell phone. Furthermore,

there must be signs designating who is permitted to use the trails. If the trails are just for

walkers and joggers, this should be posted. However, if the trails are available for use by

bikers and horseback riders as well, this should be posted. This way visitors know what

other kinds of activities are occurring on the trails so they are prepared to watch out for

other users.

Rules

Signs should be posted throughout the park detailing park rules such as the prohibition

of alcohol and firearms. This lessens the likelihood of these items creating risk on park

grounds, as well as transfers the liability of the risk from the park to the visitor who may

be breaking the posted rules. By posting these rules we can better protect ourselves from

liability by doing all that is reasonable in informing visitors of park rules. Trails should

be designated as only for walkers and joggers. No All Terrain Vehicles, dirt bikes, or

regular bicycles should be permitted on walking trails.

Hours

Park hours must be posted at the entrance of any and all walking trails so visitors

know what time they should begin exiting the woods. It is unsafe for visitors to be in the

woods after hours, especially if they are alone.

Wildlife

Signs should be posted at the entrance of all walking trails detailing pictures and

descriptions of the most common dangerous wildlife creatures and plants. The specific

items listed depend on the location of the park; however, in the Raleigh location, this may

include Poison Ivy, Copperhead snakes, Water Moccasins, and Brown Recluse spiders,

for example. It is not realistic to require staff members to search park grounds for any

potential wildlife risks; however, it should be included in the checklist for staff members

to note the location and date of any sightings of this kind. A sign would then be posted at


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the entrance of each trail warning visitors of the sighting and urging them to be extra

cautious. Any small ponds or other bodies of water around the walking trails must be

posted as prohibited for swimming, to protect visitors from poisonous water snakes or

other dangerous wildlife that might inhabit there.

Visitor Center

Finally, in case of accident or injury, a visitor center must be present on park grounds

or a phone number available for wildlife staff in the event that a visitor needs trained

help. These staff members will be periodically trained in first aid, CPR, and must

complete Wilderness First Response training prior to hiring, and must maintain up to date

first aid and CPR certifications. Copies of all certifications must be kept on file at the

visitors’ center or at the park office location in the event that there is not a visitors’

center.

Weather and Climate

In the event that a lightning storm or heavy winds should occur, there should be a safe

shelter nearby where visitors can go to escape. Depending on the miles of walking trails,

there should be a designated number of safe shelters along the trails. Similarly, in the

event of a snow or ice storm or heavy rains, snow and ice should be swept off trails as

soon as possible. Trails should also be constructed in a raised fashion to aid in draining of

rain to prevent flooding on the trails (Wagner, 2007).

Baseball Field

Maintenance and Inspection of Bleachers

The inspection should identify structural damage to or deterioration of supports,

bracing, seating boards, steps, railings, and fencing. Mechanical fasteners should be

checked for tightness (torque) and welds for cracking or rust. Repairs should be made

immediately. Inspection and repair efforts should be documented, including the date of

the inspection and the signature of the person conducting each inspection. You can see

pictures of bleacher examples in the appendix. When inspecting bleachers, we must keep

in mind these guidelines set by the CPSC:

Guardrails should be present on the backs and portions of the open ends of bleachers

where the footboard, seatboard, or aisle is 30 inches or more above the floor or ground

below. Bleachers with the top row nominally 30 inches above the ground may be exempt

from this recommendation.

The top surface of the guardrail should be at least 42 inches above the leading edge of

the footboard, seatboard, or aisle, whichever is adjacent.

When bleachers are used adjacent to a wall that is at least as high as the recommended

guardrail height, the guardrail is not needed if a 4-inch diameter sphere fails to pass

between the bleachers and the wall.

Any opening between components of the guardrail or under the guardrail should

prevent passage of a 4-inch sphere.

Any opening between the components in the seating, such as between the footboard,


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seatboard, and riser, should prevent passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere where the

footboard is 30 inches or more above the ground and where the opening would permit a

fall of 30 inches or more.

The preferable guardrail design uses only vertical members as in-fill between the top

and bottom rails. If there are openings in the in-fill that could provide a foothold for

climbing, the widest measurement of the opening where the foot could rest should be

limited to a maximum of 1.75 inches. Opening patterns that provide a ladder effect

should be avoided. If chain link fencing is used on guardrails, it should have a mesh size

of 1.25-inch square or less.

Aisles, handrails, non-skid surfaces, and other items that assist in access and egress on

bleachers should be incorporated into any retrofit project where feasible.

The option of replacing bleachers as opposed to retrofitting should be considered.

Materials and methods used for retrofitting should prevent the introduction of new

hazards, such as bleacher tipover, bleacher collapse, guardrail collapse, and contact or

tripping hazards.

Bleachers should be thoroughly inspected at least quarterly by trained personnel and

problems corrected immediately. Records of these actions should be retained.

A licensed professional engineer, registered architect, or company that is qualified to

provide bleacher products and services, should inspect the bleachers at least every two

years and

provide a written certification at such time that the bleachers are fit for use.

Records of all incidents and injuries should be retained.

Foul Balls/other flying objects

While foul balls are a part of the game, there are steps that we take to reduce the risks

of injuries due to foul balls and other flying objects such as baseball bats. Much of the

liability for foul balls falls under the assumption of risk doctrine meaning that those

playing and watching the game should be aware that foul balls and bats are potential

risks. Even though much of the responsibility falls in the hands of participants and

spectators to avoid foul balls, there are some preventative measure that can be taken to

limit these risks. Some of the preventative measures we have taken include:

25 ft. high fence backstops to prevent foul balls from coming straight back into

the bleacher seats behind home plate.

Dugouts for players to sit or stand in so that they are not in the field of play and at

risk of being hit by balls/flying objects

Signage to indicate to spectators and participants that you are in a potential foul

ball area and should be extra aware of foul ball/flying objects

Protective screens for pitchers in the batting cages


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Field Maintenance and rules

In order to keep the field in suitable playing condition the staff performs field

maintenance on a daily basis. This would not be possible without the proper equipment.

A list of general equipment needs as well as a field maintenance checklist can be found in

the appendix. These are checklists distribute by Major League Baseball so there are

some fields that don’t apply to our facility.

In addition to field maintenance, we must ask participants to follow the field rules in

order to sustain the quality of the field. Signs with rules will be placed throughout the

fields to remind participants what is acceptable and not acceptable.


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Picnic Shelters

Rain

In the event that it should rain, picnic shelter roofs should be the correct dimensions to

ensure the concrete slab underneath does not get wet and slippery. Roof dimensions

should be noted and the correct size should be enforced when shelters are built.

Sturdiness

In the facility maintenance checklist, staff members should be required to check the

sturdiness of picnic shelter roofs, benches, grills, beams, and flooring. The wood in the

roofs, benches, and beams should be checked for rotting to ensure that no wood will

collapse or break off. The entire picnic shelter should fall within standard building codes.

The park will maintain documentation of these building codes signed off by the engineers

and the construction companies who carried out the building process, indicating that the

shelters are built to withstand outdoor climate and are sturdy enough to be used for

recreational use.

Grill

Use of picnic shelter grill should be designated only for adults. Signs should be posted

by each grill that say, “Warning HOT.” When parties reserve picnic shelters, park staff

should reiterate to the adult that the grills are not for use by children and all children

should be carefully monitored. Grills must be positioned high enough that young children

cannot reach the hot surface and injure themselves, since we cannot reasonably predict

what children will do. Visitors are required to bring their own wood or charcoal,

newspaper, matches, etc.

Rules

Signs should be posted around the picnic shelters detailing the park rules, including

the prohibition of alcohol and firearms. By posting these rules, we can transfer some

liability to the visitor breaking the rules in the event that someone is injured.

Reservations

Visitors must be required to reserve picnic shelters in the event that they are being

used for a party or gathering. By doing this, park staff can be made aware of the

whereabouts of large groups of visitors in the event that there is an accident or

emergency. This way, park staff can more quickly provide aid.

Hours

Park hours must be posted for all visitors of the picnic shelters to see. Because the

park becomes dangerous in the night hours with people walking around, visitors should

be made aware of park hours and understand that they need to leave the park once it is

closed for the day.


20

(Figure 7: Sign regarding reservations at picnic shelter at Lake Johnson Park – Raleigh, NC)

Playgrounds

In order to assure the safety of our participants there are several key factors we kept in

mind when constructing our playground to limit the amount of hazards to playground

participants:

Accessibility

Special consideration should was given to providing accessible surfaces in a play area

that meets the ASTM Standard Specification for Determination of Accessibility of

Surface Systems Under and Around Playground Equipment, ASTM F1951. Equipment

selection and location along with the type of protective surfacing were key components to

ensuring the opportunity for children with disabilities to play on the playground.

Age separation Since our playground is intended to serve children of all ages, the layout of pathways

and the landscaping of the playground should show the distinct areas for the different age

groups. The areas are separated at least by a buffer zone, with areas like shrubs or

benches. This separation and buffer zone reduces the chance of injury from older, more

active children running through areas filled with younger children with generally slower

movement and reaction times.

Conflicting activities

The play area is organized into different sections to prevent injuries caused by

conflicting activities and children running between activities. Active, physical activities

are separate from more passive or quiet activities. Areas for playground equipment, open

fields, and sand boxes are located in different sections of the playground. In addition,


21

popular, heavy-use pieces of equipment or activities are dispersed to avoid crowding in

any one area. Some general recommendations we’ve followed include:

Moving equipment, such as swings and merry-go-rounds, should be located

toward a corner, side, or edge of the play area while ensuring that the appropriate

use zones around the equipment are maintained.

Slide exits should be located in an uncongested area of the playground.

Composite play structures have become increasingly popular on public

playgrounds. Adjacent components on composite structures should be

complementary. For example, an access component should not be located in a

slide exit zone.

Sight lines

Our playground is laid out to allow parents or caregivers to keep track of children as

they move throughout the playground environment. Visual barriers are minimized as

much as possible. For example, playground equipment is as visible as possible from park

benches. The older children’s area should s visible from the younger children’s area to

ensure that caregivers of multiple children can see older children while they are engaged

in interactive play with younger ones.

Signage and/or labeling

Although the intended user group should be obvious from the design and scale of

equipment, signs and/or labels are posted in the playground area or on the equipment to

give some guidance to supervisors as to the age appropriateness of the equipment.

Examples of signage can be seen in the Appendix.

Shading considerations According to the American Academy of Dermatology, research indicates that one in

five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime, and five or

more sunburns double the risk of developing skin cancer. With that said, we have utilized

existing shade (e.g., trees), designed play structures as a means for providing shading

(e.g., elevated platforms with shaded space below), and created more shade (e.g., man-

made structures) to help protect children’s skin from the sun. Additional maintenance

issues arise, such as the need for cleaning up debris and trimming limbs from trees used

as shade.

Supervision The quality of the supervision depends on the quality of the supervisor’s knowledge of

safe play behavior. Playground designers should be aware of the type of supervision most

likely for their given playground. Depending on the location and nature of the

playground, the supervisors may be paid professionals (e.g., childcare, elementary school

or park and recreation personnel), paid seasonal workers (e.g., college or high school

students), volunteers (e.g., PTA members), or unpaid caregivers (e.g., parents) of the

children playing in the playground. In our case we rely very heavily on the supervision

of parents that bring their children to the park, however, there are times where employees

are able to keep an eye on things as well.


22

Parents and playground supervisors should be aware that not all playground

equipment is appropriate for all children who may use the playground. Supervisors

should look for posted signs indicating the appropriate age of the users and direct

children to equipment appropriate for their age. Toddlers and preschool-age children

require more attentive supervision than older children; however, one should not rely on

supervision alone to prevent injuries. Supervisors should understand the basics of

playground safety such as:

Checking for broken equipment and making sure children don’t play on it.

Checking for and removing unsafe modifications, especially ropes tied to

equipment, before letting children play.

Checking for properly maintained protective surfacing.

Making sure children are wearing foot wear.

Watching and stopping dangerous horseplay, such as children throwing protective

surfacing materials, jumping from heights, etc.

Watching for and stopping children from wandering away from the play area.

Equipment

Our playground uses equipment that that is manufactured and constructed of materials

that have shown a record of quality and durability and is inspected regularly to ensure the

safety of our participants. There are some types of equipment that are more suitable for

different age groups and some equipment that is not recommended in public playgrounds.

We have taken all these factors into consideration with the construction of our

playground.

EXAMPLES OF AGE APPROPRIATE EQUIPMENT

Toddler —Ages 6-23

months

Preschool —Ages 2-5 years Grade School—Ages 5-12

years • Climbing equipment under

32” high

• Ramps

• Single file step ladders

• Slides

• Spiral slides less than 30°

• Spring rockers

• Stairways

• Swings with full bucket

seats

• Certain climbers

• Horizontal ladders less

than or equal to 0” high for

ages and 5

• Merry-go-rounds

• Ramps

• Rung ladders

• Single file step ladders

• Slides

• Spiral slides up to 3 0°

• Spring rockers

• Stairways

• Swings – belt, full bucket

seats (2- years) & rotating

tire

• Arch climbers

• Chain or cable walks

• Free standing climbing

events with flexible parts

• Fulcrum seesaws

• Ladders – Horizontal,

Rung, & Step

• Overhead rings

• Merry-go-rounds

• Ramps

• Ring treks

• Slides

• Spiral slides more than

one

3 0° turn

• Stairways

• Swings – belt & rotating


23

tire

Equipment not recommended

Some playground equipment is not recommended for use on public playgrounds,

including:

• Trampolines

• Swinging gates

• Giant strides

• Climbing ropes that are not secured at both ends.

• Heavy metal swings (e.g., animal figures) – These are not recommended because their

heavy rigid metal framework presents a risk of impact injury.

• Multiple occupancy swings – With the exception of tire swings, swings that are

intended for more than one user are not recommended because their greater mass, as

compared to single occupancy swings, presents a risk of impact injury.

• Rope swings – Free-swinging ropes that may fray or otherwise form a loop are not

recommended because they present a potential strangulation hazard.

• Swinging dual exercise rings and trapeze bars – These are rings and trapeze bars on

long chains that are generally considered to be items of athletic equipment and are not

recommended for public playgrounds. NOTE: The recommendation against the use of

exercise rings does not apply to overhead hanging rings such as those used in a ring trek

or ring ladder

(Figure 8: Swings at Banburry Park – Raleigh, NC)

Surfacing Surfacing under and around playground equipment is one of the most important

factors in reducing the likelihood of life-threatening head injuries. A fall onto a shock

absorbing surface is less likely to cause a serious head injury than a fall onto a hard

surface. However, some injuries from falls, including broken limbs, may occur no matter


24

what playground surfacing material is used. We use a combination of unitary and loose-

fill materials to guarantee the safety of all those that play on our playground.

Appropriate Surfacing Inappropriate Surfacing

• Any material tested to ASTM F1292,

including unitary surfaces, engineered

wood fiber, etc.

• Pea gravel

• Sand

• Shredded/recycled rubber mulch

• Wood mulch (not CCA-treated)

• Wood chips

• Asphalt

• Carpet not tested to ASTM F1292

• Concrete

• Dirt

• Grass

• CCA treated wood mulch

Unitary materials: generally rubber mats and tiles or a combination of energy-

absorbing materials held in place by a binder that may be poured in place at the

playground site and then cured to form a unitary shock absorbing surface.

When utilizing loose-fill materials it is important to keep these factors in mind:

1. Loose-fill materials will compress at least 25% over time due to use and weathering.

This must be considered when planning the playground. For example, if the playground

will require 9 inches of wood chips, then the initial fill level should be 12 inches. See

Table 2 below.

2. Loose-fill surfacing requires frequent maintenance to ensure surfacing levels never

drop below the minimum depth. Areas under swings and at slide exits are more

susceptible to displacement; special attention must be paid to maintenance in these areas.

Additionally, wear mats can be installed in these areas to reduce displacement.

3. The perimeter of the playground should provide a method of containing the loose-fill

materials.

4. Consider marking equipment supports with a minimum fill level to aid in maintaining

the original depth of material

5. Good drainage is essential to maintaining loose-fill surfacing. Standing water with

surfacing material reduces effectiveness and leads to material compaction and

decomposition.

6. Critical height may be reduced during winter in areas where the ground freezes.

7. Never use less than 9 inches of loose-fill material except for shredded/recycled rubber

(6 inches recommended). Shallower depths are too easily displaced and compacted

8. Some loose-fill materials may not meet ADA/ABA accessibility guidelines. For more

information, contact the Access Board or refer to ASTM F1951.

9. Wood mulch containing chromated copper arsenate (CCA)-treated wood products

should not be used; mulch where the CCA-content is unknown should be avoided

Maintenance Inspections

A comprehensive maintenance program has been developed for our playground. All

playground areas and equipment are inspected for excessive wear, deterioration, and any

potential hazards, each and every day. One possible procedure we utilize is a checklist.

Some manufacturers supply checklists for general or detailed inspections with their


25

maintenance instructions. These can be used to ensure that inspections are in compliance

with the manufacturer’s specifications. If manufacturer-provided inspection guidelines

are not available, a general checklist that may be used as a guide for frequent routine

inspections of public playgrounds is included in the appendix. This is intended to address

only general maintenance concerns. Detailed inspections should give special attention to

moving parts and other parts that can be expected to wear. Maintenance inspections

should be carried out in a systematic manner by personnel regularly.

Repairs

Inspections alone do not constitute a comprehensive maintenance program. We fix any

problems found during our inspections as soon as possible.

All repairs and replacements of equipment parts are completed following the

manufacturer’s instructions.

User modifications, such as loose-ended ropes tied to elevated parts, are removed

immediately.

For each piece of equipment, the frequency of thorough inspections depends on

the type and age of equipment, the amount of use, and the local climate.

Consult the manufacturer for maintenance schedules for each piece of equipment.

Based on these schedules, a maintenance schedule for the entire playground can

be created. This routine maintenance schedule should not replace regular

inspections.

Maintaining Loose-Fill Surfacing

Loose-fill surfacing materials require special maintenance. We check frequently to ensure

surfacing has not displaced significantly, particularly in areas of the playground most

subject to displacement (e.g., under swings and slide exits). We have facilitated this by

marking ideal surfacing depths on equipment posts. Displaced loose-fill surfacing is

raked back into proper place so that a constant depth is maintained throughout the

playground. We’ve also placed attenuating mats placed in high traffic areas, such as

under swings and at slide exits, which significantly reduce displacement. They are

installed below or level with surfacing so as not to be a tripping hazard. The following

are key points we 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 solid no longer functions

as protective surfacing. It is recommended that children not play on the equipment

under these condition

Personnel and Staff

All personnel and staff will be required to pass the Certified Playground Safety Inspector

(CPSI) program offered by the National Certification Board in coordination with the

National Park and Recreation Association and the National Playground Safety Institute.

Our whole staff will have an extensive knowledge and awareness of potential risks and


26

hazards to ensure our participants premium safety. Information on how to complete the

course is provided when hired. An outline of the exam content as well as the CPSI Code

of Professional Conduct is included in the Appendix.


27

Appendix


28

Photo shows a

small, fixed or

portable unit.

Note the

mesh fencing on the

side and back.

Close up of prior photo

showing the riser

protection, fencing and

bottom rails.

Note the riser

space is filled in.

The gap between the

side fence and the back

fence should not be

larger than four inches


29

This is an older, permanent bleacher system at a high school football field. This system has been retrofitted to some degree. There is no riser fall protection and no hand rails in the aisle walkway. However, fencing has been added to the top and sides reducing the potential for falls from the bleachers. Massamont Insurance would recommend riser gaps be closed to reduce the potential for falls between the seat and walking surfaces, especially for children. We would also recommend the installation of aisle railings.

This photo shows a newer, permanent bleacher system at a town recreational baseball field. The system has aisle railings, riser protection, and top and side guardrails with mesh fencing. The risers would prevent falls between the seat-boards and the floorboards and would also prevent objects from falling from the floorboards onto anyone beneath the bleachers.


30

Daily Baseball Field Maintenance Checklist

Daily Routine before Practice:

Remove tarps

Water skinned areas and baselines

Install the bases

Erect safety screens for pitcher, first base and second base

Place the batting cage at home plate

Daily Routine after Practice and Games:

Remove the bases and cover the base anchor sleeves

Drag the skinned areas and baselines

Recondition the mound and home plate area and cover areas with tarps

Recondition the bull pen mound and home plate area

Replace and tamp any loose divots in turf areas

Dispose of trash in and around field and bleacher areas

Day of Game Routine:

Remove tarpaulins

Mow the grass

Scarify the skinned areas with a spiker

Drag the skinned areas smooth

Water the infield area

Sweep and clean dugouts

Set the chalk lines and mark officially

Place the batting practice pitcher's mat on the mound

Place the safety screens: pitcher, first base and second base

Paint or wash bases, pitching plate and home plate

Prepare the bullpens

Hang flags on the foul line poles and flagpole

Check the operation of the field lights

Check the operation of the scoreboard

Prepare the press box and operation of the public address system

Check the operation of the electrical equipment in the concession stand

Clean and prepare the locker rooms and umpire rooms

Dispose of trash found in and around field and bleacher areas


31

Tools and Equipment

Batter's box chalker

Base hole covers

Batter's box and catcher's box outline frames

Push broom

Drags

Edge cutter

Line marker

Mound and hitting mats

Rakes

Shovels

Small backpack-style sprayer

Spiker

Sprinkling (watering) can

String line

Tamp

Tarpaulins

Watering equipment - hoses, spray nozzles

Wheelbarrow


32

Routine Inspection and Maintenance Issues

Broken equipment such as loose bolts, missing end caps,

cracks, etc.

Broken glass & other trash

Cracks in plastics

Loose anchoring

Hazardous or dangerous debris

Insect damage

Problems with surfacing

Displaced loose-fill surfacing (see Section .3)

Holes, flakes, and/or buckling of unitary surfacing

User modifications (such as ropes tied to parts or equipment

rearranged)

Vandalism

Worn, loose, damaged, or missing parts

Wood splitting

Rusted or corroded metals

Rot


33

SUGGESTED GENERAL MAINTENANCE CHECKLISTS

Surfacing

Adequate protective surfacing under and around the

equipment.

Install/replace surfacing

Surfacing materials have not deteriorated.

Replace surfacing

Other maintenance: _________________________

Loose-fill surfacing materials have no foreign

objects or debris.

Remove trash and debris

Loose-fill surfacing materials are not compacted.

Rake and fluff surfacing

Loose-fill surfacing materials have not been

displaced

under heavy use areas such as under swings

or at slide exits.

Rake and fluff surfacing

Drainage

The entire play area has satisfactory drainage,

especially in heavy use areas such as under swings and

at slide exits.

Improve drainage


General Hazards

There are no sharp points, corners or edges on the

equipment

There are no missing or damaged protective caps or

Plugs

There are no hazardous protrusions

There are no potential clothing entanglement hazards,

such as open S-hooks or protruding bolts

There are no crush and shearing points on exposed

moving parts

There are no trip hazards, such as exposed footings

or anchoring devices and rocks, roots, or any other

obstacles in a use zone

Security of Hardware

There are no loose fastening devices or worn

connections.

Replace fasteners


Moving parts, such as swing hangers, merry-go-

round bearings, and track rides, are not worn.

Replace part


Durability of Equipment

There are no rust, rot, cracks, or splinters on any

equipment (check carefully where it comes in contact

with the ground).

There are no broken or missing components on the

equipment (e.g., handrails, guardrails, protective

barriers, steps, or rungs).

There are no damaged fences, benches, or signs on

the playground.

All equipment is securely anchored.

Leaded Paint

Paint (especially lead paint) is not peeling, cracking,

chipping, or chalking.

There are no areas of visible leaded paint chips or

accumulation of lead dust.

Mitigate lead paint hazards

General Upkeep of Playgrounds

There are no user modifications to the equipment,

such as strings and ropes tied to equipment, swings

looped over top rails, etc.

Remove string or rope

Correct other modification

The entire playground is free from debris or litter

such as tree branches, soda cans, bottles, glass, etc.

Clean playground

There are no missing trash receptacles.

Replace trash receptacle

Trash receptacles are not full.


34

Empty trash

Exam Content Outline This outline illustrates the course content area and the percentage of questions on the

certification exam that are based on each content area. You need to review this outline in

preparation to take the exam.

I. The Playground Safety Milieu 5 A. The historical evolution of the Playground Safety Movement

B. U.S. organizations and governmental agencies involvement

II. Role of Child Development 5 A. Characteristics of users

1. anthropometrics

2. disabilities

B. Range of users-age appropriateness

III. The Foundation of Playground Safety Surfacing 16 A. Impact attenuation criteria-critical height

B. Use zones-dimensions and overlap

C. Surface testing: what, how, who

D. Unitary surface products

E. Loose-fill surfacing materials

F. Accessibility-approach

IV. The Playground Infrastructure: The Equipment 32 A. Fall height

B. Performance requirements

1. head and neck entrapment

2. sharp points and sharp edges

3. protrusions

4. entanglement

5. pinch, crush and shear points

6. suspended hazards

C. Guardrails & Protective Barriers

D. Structural characteristics

E. Installation

F. Specific types of playground equipment

1. balance beams

2. climbers

3. upper body equipment

4. sliding poles

5. slides

6. swings

7. equipment not recommended

8. moving, rotating, or rocking components

9. roller slides


35

10. seesaws

11. spring rocking equipment

12. log rolls

13. track rides

14. roofs

15. climbing ropes

G. Materials and manufacture

1. structural designation

2. metal and wood treatment

3. plastics and other materials

H. Access and egress

1. rung and stepladders

2. stairways

3. ramps (other than wheelchair-accessible)

4. other

I. Equipment not covered by the CPSC or the ASTM

J. Accessibility-use of equipment

K. Platforms

V. The Playground Layout and Design 15 A. Equipment Placement

B. Age separation

C. Specific equipment relationships

D. Orientation and other environmental factors

E. Master planning

F. Labeling

G. Accessibility-route of travel

VI. Playground Safety Practices/Management 27 A. Safety Audits

B. Safety Inspection

C. Maintenance

1. routine

2. periodic

3. preventive

D. Playground evaluations

1. priorities

2. documentation

3. record keeping

E. Repair and replacement factors

F. Supervision of Playground

G. Risk reduction

H. Preparation for litigation

I. Risk management

J. Staff training and evaluation

K Status: injury data, causes, equipment related injuries, etc.


36

L. Common playground concerns: hazards, sanitation, vandalism

Certified Playground Safety Inspector - Code of Professional Conduct This code sets forth the standards of professional conduct to be observed by CPSIs upon confirmation by the NCB as they act in the capacity of that certification. Certificants shall, in their professional activities, sustain and advance the integrity, honor and veracity of their certification by:

holding the safety of playground users paramount in all professional services;

utilizing the most current standards of care (as delineated by the American

Society for Testing and Materials Standards on Consumer Safety Performance

Specification for Public Use, Playground surfacing, and Standard Consumer

Safety Performance Specifications for Public Use Play Equipment for Children 6

months through 23 months, as well as the US Consumer Product Safety

Commissions Public Playground Safety Handbook);

maintaining currency and competency in playground safety inspection procedures

including use of testing tools and knowledge of current safety criteria;

identifying and documenting all situations which are in non-compliance with the

standards of care along with the citation of the specific reference portion of the

criterion document, using a standard playground safety inspection process;

prioritizing all identified non-compliances according to a standard norm of

foreseeable consequences;

advising employers or clients of seriously dangerous conditions in the most

prompt manner as well as part of a written report, omitting no adverse findings

from the official documentation of the safety inspection;

never conducting a safety audit or inspection without the knowledge and consent

of the playground owner;

never contradicting the findings of another CPSI without first consulting directly

with the first Inspector regarding the basis for these findings;

never conducting a safety audit of a playground with the intent to discredit an

owner or manufacturer or to promote sale of other equipment or products; and

never providing findings of an inspection to anyone other than the playground

owner unless authorized by the owner to do so.

Certificants failing to practice these professional standards shall be subject to loss of

professional certification upon a negative finding by a review process and enforcement

procedures established by the Executive Committee of the National Playground Safety

Institute.


37

[Street Address]

[City, ST ZIP Code]

Phone [(212)444-0123] Fax [(212)444-0144]

PURCHASE ORDER

The following number must appear on all related

correspondence, shipping papers, and invoices: P.O. NUMBER: [001]

TO:

[Name]

[Company]

[Street Address]

[City, ST ZIP Code]

[Phone]

SHIP TO:

[Name]

[Company]

[Street Address]

[City, ST ZIP Code]

[Phone]

P.O. DATE REQUISITIONER SHIPPED VIA F.O.B. POINT TERMS

QTY UNIT DESCRIPTION UNIT PRICE TOTAL

SUBTOTAL

SALES TAX

SHIPPING & HANDLING

OTHER

TOTAL


38

1. Please send two copies of your invoice.

2. Enter this order in accordance with the prices, terms, delivery

method, and specifications listed above.

3. Please notify us immediately if you are unable to ship as

specified.

4. Send all correspondence to:

[Name]

[Street Address]

[City, ST ZIP Code]

Phone [(212)444-0123] Fax [(212)444-0144]

Authorized by Date


39

Accident/Incident Report Form Date of incident: _______________ Time: ________ AM/PM

Name of injured person:

Address:

Phone Number(s):

Date of birth: ________________ Male ______ Female _______

Who was injured person?(circle one) Passenger System Employee

Type of injury:

Details of incident:

Injury requires physician/hospital visit? Yes ___ No _____

Name of physician/hospital:

Address:

Physician/hospital phone number:

Signature of injured party _________________________________________________________ Date

*No medical attention was desired and/or required.

Signature of injured party Date

Return this form to Safety Coordinator within 24 hours of incident.


40

Witness Report

Using direct quotations where possible, please address the following in your statements:

Why was the park visitor asked to leave the park grounds?

Please describe in detail what happened.

Please be objective in describing the situation and person(s) involved. Refrain

from using your opinion.

Witness #1 (print name) ____________________ Signature _______________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________


________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________


________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________


________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Witness Statement is written by the witness and must be signed.

If able to get participant statement please use separate sheet of paper and attach to

incident report.

Source: Mull, Bayless, & Jamieson (2005)


41

Request for Repair

Job Number __________

Date ________________

Priority Level High Medium Low

Specific Location _______________________________________________

Walking Trails:

Railings Bridges Trail Surface

Signs/Maps Draining Fallen Limbs/Debris

Overgrown Weeds/Bushes

Other_____________________

Picnic Shelters

Benches Roof Cement Surface

Grill Signs

Other_____________________

Baseball Field

Fence Signs Benches

Field Trash/Debris

Other_____________________

Playground

Slide Swings Ground Surface

Railings Benches Monkey Bars

Trash Signs

Other ____________________

Contact Person ________________________________________________

Equipment Needed _____________________________________________

Description of Problem __________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

Job Started ___/___/___ Job Completed ___/___/___

Person Assigned ____________________

Signature __________________________

Source: Mull, Bayless, & Jamieson (2005)


42

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w w w .b e l mo ntb as eba l l . o r g / . . / BBO % 20S af e t y% 2 0 M an u a l -

2 0 07 .d oc

Comeau, P. (2000). Unhappy trails. Canadian Geographic, 120(2), 1. Retrieved from

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