CPSI Common Playground Hazards 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is an example of a 'tripping hazard' specific to playground use zones?
- A gap between decking boards greater than 0.5 inches
- A slide with a steep angle exceeding 50 degrees
- An exposed concrete footing near the play structure (Correct answer)
- A swing chain with a broken link
Correct answer: An exposed concrete footing near the play structure
Exposed footings and anchors that protrude from the ground in or near use zones are classic tripping hazards for running children.
Question 2: A CPSI evaluates a composite play structure and finds a broken plastic component with a sharp, jagged edge. This hazard is categorized as a:
- Protrusion hazard
- Laceration hazard (Correct answer)
- Entrapment hazard
- Entanglement hazard
Correct answer: Laceration hazard
Broken components with sharp or jagged edges present a laceration hazard, capable of cutting a child's skin on contact.
Question 3: Under CPSC guidelines, what is the minimum fall zone (use zone) width that should extend from the perimeter of a structure with a maximum fall height of 8 feet?
- 4 feet
- 6 feet (Correct answer)
- 8 feet
- 10 feet
Correct answer: 6 feet
CPSC guidelines require a minimum use zone of 6 feet in all directions from the perimeter of most playground equipment.
Question 4: A child's finger becomes trapped in a small hole in a plastic deck panel. What type of hazard does this represent?
- Protrusion hazard
- Pinch hazard
- Finger entrapment hazard (Correct answer)
- Crush hazard
Correct answer: Finger entrapment hazard
Small openings that can trap fingers or toes, preventing them from being withdrawn, are classified as finger or toe entrapment hazards.
Question 5: A CPSI notices a broken bottle near a playground. Beyond the obvious cut hazard, what is the correct CPSI protocol?
- Document it in the inspection report and leave removal to maintenance staff
- Remove it immediately if safely possible and document the finding (Correct answer)
- Cordon off the entire playground until it is removed
- Notify local police as it indicates vandalism
Correct answer: Remove it immediately if safely possible and document the finding
CPSIs should remove immediate hazardous debris if safely possible, then document the finding to address the underlying maintenance issue.
Question 6: Which of the following playground locations is most likely to develop a 'pinch point' or 'crush point' hazard?
- The top of a slide platform
- The pivot and hinge mechanisms of a see-saw or spring rider (Correct answer)
- The surface beneath overhead rings
- The opening of a tunnel climber
Correct answer: The pivot and hinge mechanisms of a see-saw or spring rider
Pivot and hinge points on moving equipment like see-saws and spring riders can pinch or crush hands and fingers placed near the mechanism.
Question 7: A CPSI identifies a stretch of chain-link fencing adjacent to a playground with a protruding wire end at child eye level. This is best classified as:
- An entanglement hazard
- A protrusion and impalement hazard (Correct answer)
- An entrapment hazard
- A fall hazard
Correct answer: A protrusion and impalement hazard
Protruding wire ends and sharp points at a child's face or body level present a protrusion and impalement hazard.
CPSI Common Playground Hazards 5
Which of the following is an example of a 'tripping hazard' specific to playground use zones?