What is 'Critical Fall Height' (CFH)?

It is the maximum fall height from which a life-threatening head injury would not be expected to occur. The playground surface must have a CFH rating greater than the equipment's free height of fall (Annex C).

What is the main rule for preventing head entrapment?

Avoid creating any accessible, rigid or partially-bound opening between 95 mm and 230 mm that a child's body can pass through but their head cannot (Clause 4.2.7).

How often should a public playground be inspected?

The standard recommends a tiered inspection schedule: routine visual inspection (e.g., daily/weekly), operational inspection (e.g., monthly/quarterly), and a main annual safety inspection by a competent person (Clause 6).

What is the falling space for a slide?

A space of 2.0 m is required at the exit of the slide, and 1.5 m is required around the other accessible parts of the slide (Clause 5.3.3).

IS 16701

: 2018

Guidelines for Safe Playgrounds

CurrentSpecializedGuidelinesBIMUrban Planning · Swimming Pools and Sports Facilities

Archive.org BIS Portal Google

This standard provides safety guidelines for the design, manufacture, installation, inspection, and maintenance of public playground equipment and surfacing. It aims to minimize the risk of severe injuries to children by addressing common hazards like falls, entrapment, and impact.

Provides guidelines for planning, design, installation, inspection, and maintenance of safe playgrounds.

Quick Reference Values

Head/Neck Entrapment Hazard Opening (prohibited range)95 mm to 230 mm

Finger Entrapment Hazard Opening (prohibited range)8 mm to 25 mm

Clothing Toggle Entrapment Gap (prohibited)< 5 mm with an angle < 30°

Maximum Free Height of Fall3.0 m

Minimum Depth of Loose Fill Surfacing (e.g., Sand/Gravel for 3m fall height)400 mm

Minimum Free Space Zone around dynamic equipment (e.g. Swings)1.5 m to the side

Practical Notes

The most critical aspect is providing and maintaining appropriate impact-attenuating surfacing. The Critical Fall Height (CFH) of the surface must always exceed the equipment's free height of fall.

Regularly inspect for entrapment hazards, especially partially-bound openings between 95 mm and 230 mm where a child's head could be trapped.

Ensure fall zones and free spaces around equipment are kept clear of all obstacles, including other equipment, posts, and hard surfaces.