Legal Requirements and Scope of Inspection
A safe play environment starts with clear regulations and thorough inspections. In the Netherlands, playground equipment must meet strict requirements to ensure the safety of children. At TÜV NORD, we make it easy for you to comply with all legal obligations, allowing you to focus on producing, managing, or providing safe playground equipment.
What are the legal requirements for playground equipment?
Since 1996, the Attractions and Playground Equipment Decree (WAS) has been in effect in the Netherlands. This law was introduced to prevent accidents involving playground equipment. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) ensures that equipment complies with these regulations. If a piece of equipment is deemed unsafe, the NVWA can shut it down and impose fines.
Internationally, playground equipment must comply with European Standards NEN-EN 1176 and NEN-EN 1177, which outline requirements for design, material use, and fall protection. TÜV NORD ensures that your equipment meets both Dutch and European requirements, giving you peace of mind and confidence in providing safe play environments.
Legal Requirements
TÜV NORD Netherlands ensures that playground equipment meets all legal requirements and European standards, with expert inspections and certification for maximum safety.
European Safety Standards
Playground equipment must meet strict European standards designed to ensure safety. The key standards are:
- NEN-EN 1176-1: This standard is crucial for designers, manufacturers, and importers. It includes extensive safety requirements for playground equipment, including:
- Materials and stability: Equipment must be durable and structurally safe.
- Accessibility: Equipment must be accessible to a wide range of users.
- Protection against falls and injuries: Measures to prevent injuries from falls or moving parts.
- Entrapment prevention: Ensuring that children cannot become trapped in the equipment.
Additionally, this standard specifies how equipment should be tested, the information suppliers must provide, and the markings that must be applied to the equipment.
- NEN-EN 1176-7: Guidelines for installation, maintenance, inspection, and use of the equipment.
- NEN-EN 1177: Standards for shock-absorbing surfaces and determining critical fall heights.
While these European standards are important, Dutch legislation often goes a step further. TÜV NORD supports you at every stage to ensure compliance and minimize risks.
What playground equipment does the WAS apply to?
The WAS defines playground equipment as structures designed for entertainment or recreation that operate using gravity or the physical strength of the user. However, there are exceptions:
Domestic use:
Playground equipment for private use, such as a swing in a backyard, falls under the Toy Safety Directive.
Electrical equipment:
Devices powered by electricity, such as coin-operated rides, are governed by separate electrical product legislation.
DIY equipment:
Structures built by children, such as those on adventure playgrounds. However, if these are maintained, the operator is responsible for their safety.
Who does the legislation apply to?
The legislation applies to all stages of a playground equipment’s lifecycle: design, production, and use. Each party in the chain has specific responsibilities:
- Designers, manufacturers, and importers: They must ensure that playground equipment complies with all legal requirements and is safe for use. This is verified through an inspection by an Authorized Inspection Body (AKI), such as TÜV NORD. We provide expert inspections to ensure your equipment fully complies with the rules.
- Operators and lessors: They are responsible for the correct installation, safe upkeep, and meeting maintenance and inspection requirements. TÜV NORD assists by performing periodic inspections, identifying risks, and certifying your equipment. With our support, you can easily meet all legal obligations.
How to comply with legal and safety requirements?
For Designers, Manufacturers, and Importers
As a designer, manufacturer, or importer, you are responsible for the safe design and production of play equipment. In addition, you must ensure that:
- The equipment is provided with the correct documentation and markings for inspection and maintenance.
- The equipment is inspected by an accredited Designated Inspection Body (AKI), such as TÜV NORD.
Upon approval, you will receive a certificate of approval, which demonstrates that your play equipment meets all legal requirements and is safe to use. Without this certificate, you risk fines, closure of the equipment, and even liability in the event of an accident.
For Managers and Rental Companies
Managers and rental companies of play equipment in public spaces are responsible for using only approved equipment and ensuring proper installation with a safe surface. Additionally, you must:
- Develop a management plan and regularly inspect your equipment.
- Perform maintenance, such as tightening bolts or checking the thickness of the surface material.
- Keep a logbook or up-to-date record of all activities and inspections.
It is recommended to have safety inspections performed by a qualified professional. At TÜV NORD, our experienced inspectors provide thorough checks to ensure your equipment remains safe during its operational lifecycle and fully complies with all legal requirements.
What can you expect from TÜV NORD?
At TÜV NORD, we combine expertise with simplicity. Our inspections ensure that your playground equipment meets the highest standards, both in the Netherlands and internationally. We help you avoid risks, build trust, and provide safe play environments.
Want to ensure that your playground equipment complies with all legal requirements?
Contact us today and discover how we can support you!