CPSI ASTM and CPSC Standards 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under ASTM F1487, what is the minimum height for a protective barrier on equipment designed for children ages 5-12 where the platform is more than 30 inches above the protective surface?
- 38 inches (Correct answer)
- 29 inches
- 42 inches
- 36 inches
Correct answer: 38 inches
ASTM F1487 requires protective barriers on equipment for ages 5-12 with platforms over 30 inches high to be at least 38 inches tall.
Question 2: The CPSC Handbook recommends that the use zone for a tot swing extend how far in front of and behind the pivot point?
- Twice the height of the pivot point (Correct answer)
- 6 feet in each direction
- The height of the pivot point in each direction
- 10 feet in each direction
Correct answer: Twice the height of the pivot point
The CPSC recommends the use zone for swings extend twice the height of the pivot point both in front of and behind the swing.
Question 3: According to ASTM F1487, which type of hardware finish is specifically recommended to minimize corrosion on outdoor playground equipment?
- Hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel (Correct answer)
- Powder-coated steel
- Chrome-plated steel
- Zinc-plated steel
Correct answer: Hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel
ASTM F1487 recommends hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel hardware for outdoor equipment due to superior corrosion resistance.
Question 4: ASTM F2049 is the standard that covers which specific playground component?
- Fences and barriers around residential pools and spas
- Guardrails and protective barriers on play equipment
- Slides and chute designs
- Swing hangers and connectors (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Swing hangers and connectors
ASTM F2049 covers the safety of hangers and connectors used in conjunction with swings for home playground equipment.
Question 5: According to the CPSC Handbook, what action should a playground inspector take upon discovering an imminent hazard during an inspection?
- Close the equipment immediately and notify the responsible authority (Correct answer)
- Document the hazard and schedule repair within 30 days
- Post a warning sign and continue the inspection
- Report the hazard in writing at the end of the inspection
Correct answer: Close the equipment immediately and notify the responsible authority
An imminent hazard requires immediate closure of the affected equipment and prompt notification to those responsible for the playground.
Question 6: Under ASTM F1487, what is the maximum gap allowable between a ladder rung and a supporting structure to prevent foot entrapment?
- Less than 3.5 inches or greater than 9 inches (Correct answer)
- Less than 1 inch
- Less than 2 inches
- Less than 4 inches
Correct answer: Less than 3.5 inches or greater than 9 inches
ASTM F1487 requires ladder rung gaps to be either less than 3.5 inches or greater than 9 inches to avoid the foot entrapment zone.
Question 7: The CPSC Handbook identifies 'protrusions' as a hazard because they can cause which type of injury?
- Impalement or clothing entanglement leading to strangulation (Correct answer)
- Impact injuries to the head
- Pinching or crushing of fingers
- Abrasion injuries to the palms
Correct answer: Impalement or clothing entanglement leading to strangulation
Protrusions such as bolt ends or S-hooks can catch clothing, creating strangulation hazards, or can directly impale a child.
Under ASTM F1487, what is the minimum height for a protective barrier on equipment designed for children ages 5-12 where the platform is more than 30 inches above the protective surface?