RoSPA Play Safety : FAQs
Skateboard Areas
1. Are skateboard areas a good thing?
Yes. RoSPA supports the provision of skateboard facilities.
2. Will there be accidents on them?
By the very nature of the activity there will always be accidents on skateboard areas. However as 95% of fatalities to skateboarders are as a result of collision with motor vehicles and only 17% of serious injuries to skateboarders occur on designated facilities, they greatly improve community safety
3. If there are accidents will we be liable?
Only if you are negligent. If you have your ramps inspected by RoSPA when they are installed, get annual inspections from RoSPA and undertake regular inspection and maintenance yourselves to keep ramps in good condition, you have nothing to worry about
4. How far should the ramps be from houses?
A Court judgement in 2003 stated that the noise level at surrounding properties should not exceed 55 decibels. Different types of ramp construction and different material, together with environmental issues means that distances can vary considerably. It is recommended that you get the supplier to confirm in writing that noise levels will be acceptable on their equipment in the relevant location.
5. What is the best material for ramps?
All surfaces have their plus and minus points, and views of local users should be very much taken into account. Remember though that wood might have problems in areas of high vandalism.
6. Do we need inspections?
Yes you need at least as good inspection regime as you do for play areas and this should include at least one inspection a week. RoSPA can undertake the annual inspections at the same time as it undertakes you play area inspections It is also very important to get a RoSPA Post Installation Inspection on all new facilities (your insurers may well insist on this).
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RoSPA is a registered charity: Registered Charity No: 207823 Patron: Her Majesty the Queen RoSPA Head Office: Edgbaston Park, 353 Bristol Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B5 7ST, UK |
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