Playground equipment inspection: guaranteed safety
A safe play environment starts with peace of mind. Even if playground equipment is built to standards, inspections ensure they are genuinely safe for use. TÜV NORD helps you minimize risks such as falls and entrapment while meeting all legal requirements as set out in the Dutch Commodities Act Decree on Attractions and Playground Equipment (WAS).
Whether you need a new piece of equipment inspected, want to inspect an existing installation, or certify impact-absorbing surfaces, we are here for you. Discover how our inspection process works and the solutions we provide to make safety simple
What does a playground equipment inspection entail?
A playground equipment inspection in the Netherlands is based on the Dutch Commodities Act Decree on Attractions and Playground Equipment (WAS) and European standards such as:
- EN 1176: Safety requirements for playground equipment.
- EN 1177: Standards for impact-absorbing surfaces.
- EN 14960: For inflatable playground equipment.
At TÜV NORD, we make the inspection process simple and transparent, so you can be confident that your playground equipment is safe and complies with all legal requirements. Our inspection process consists of three steps:
Playground equipment inspection
Playground equipment inspections by TÜV NORD ensure safety and compliance with Dutch (WAS) and European standards, minimizing risks and providing certification for new, existing, or series-produced equipment and surfaces.
Document review
We verify that all documents are complete and accurate, including drawings, technical specifications, photos, and manuals. This documentation forms the foundation for safe commissioning.
On-Site inspection
Our inspectors conduct a thorough on-site inspection. The playground equipment is physically examined and assessed for safety and quality.
Report and certification
After a successful inspection, you will receive a report and certificate, proving that your equipment complies with all legal requirements and can be used safely.
What happens if deficiencies are found?
If the inspection identifies deficiencies, you will have the opportunity to address them. This often involves submitting additional documentation or photos.
Why is a certificate important?
A certificate is your assurance that the playground equipment meets all legal requirements and can be used safely. It demonstrates your compliance with obligations and your commitment to minimizing risks, thereby limiting liability and instilling trust in users. In the Netherlands, this inspection is mandatory for all playground equipment, and TÜV NORD ensures that everything is properly arranged.
Required Information for an Inspection
To perform an inspection of your playground equipment, we need the following information, as outlined in Articles 9 and 14 of the Dutch Commodities Act Decree on Attractions and Playground Equipment (WAS):
- The location where the equipment was manufactured.
- The year of construction and the name of the playground equipment.
- The Technical Construction File (TCF), as defined in Article 8 of the WAS.
- The location where the equipment can be inspected.
Periodic inspections and type inspections
For playground equipment already in use, an annual inspection is essential. We check for wear and tear, the operation of safety systems such as emergency stops, and the condition of impact-absorbing surfaces. For playground equipment produced in series, we offer type inspections, where a representative sample is thoroughly evaluated. Both inspections ensure your equipment complies with the law, can be used safely, and inspires confidence in users.
Why choose TÜV NORD for an inspection?
- Easy Application: An inspection is arranged effortlessly.
- For Everyone: Ideal for schools, manufacturers, landscapers, designers, and managers.
- Simple Process: We fully guide you, requiring minimal knowledge of standards and laws.
- Flexible Scheduling: Inspections are tailored to your schedule.
- Recognized AKI: TÜV NORD is an officially designated inspection body (AKI).
Everything you need to know about inspections
Even if a piece of playground equipment complies with standards, that doesn’t guarantee it can be used safely. Technical specifications cannot eliminate all risks, such as entrapment or fall hazards. An inspection provides assurance that your equipment is genuinely safe, risks are minimized, and you fully comply with legal requirements.
If deficiencies are identified during the inspection, you will have the opportunity to address them. Often, providing additional documentation or photos will suffice. The equipment can then be approved.
In the Netherlands, all playground equipment not intended for private use must be inspected according to the Dutch Commodities Act Decree on Attractions and Playground Equipment (WAS). These inspections must be carried out by a Designated Inspection Body (AKI). TÜV NORD is such a body.
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) oversees compliance with the WAS. They may conduct unannounced inspections. If compliance cannot be demonstrated, measures may be taken, such as fines or closure of the equipment.
The costs for a playground equipment inspection vary significantly, just as the complexity of the equipment varies. Based on photos or drawings, we can provide a price estimate.
At TÜV NORD, we offer a variety of inspections, ensuring you get the right support for your playground equipment. Whether it’s a unique creation or a series production, we have the expertise to make your equipment safe and certified.
Type Inspection
For playground equipment produced in series.
- Suitable for large volumes.
- Inspection of a representative sample combined with a document review.
- Includes on-site inspection, such as at a factory or workshop.
Unit Inspection
For unique playground equipment or small volumes.
- One-time inspection of a specific piece of equipment.
- Comprehensive on-site inspection after installation.
- Perfect for custom designs and unique creations.
Periodic Inspection
For playground equipment already in use.
- Annual inspection for wear and tear and safety system functionality.
- Examination of components such as emergency stops and shock-absorbing surfaces.
- Ensures your equipment remains safe during its use phase.
Inspection of Impact-Absorbing Surfaces
For safety around playground equipment.
- Determination of critical fall height for surfaces without type certification.
- Certification of impact-absorbing surfaces such as rubber, artificial grass, or loose materials.
- Collaboration with EN 1177-accredited laboratories for type certification.
Inspection of Indoor Structures and Special Equipment
For complex play environments such as trampoline parks, indoor play structures, and water slides.
- Annual primary inspections focusing on wear and maintenance.
- Risk-based inspection to detect defects early.
- Outcome: A detailed report with recommendations and certification.
To perform an inspection of your playground equipment, we need the following information, as outlined in Articles 9 and 14 of the Dutch Commodities Act Decree on Attractions and Playground Equipment (WAS):
- The location where the equipment was manufactured.
- The year of construction and the name of the playground equipment.
- The Technical Construction File (TCF), as defined in Article 8 of the WAS.
- The location where the equipment can be inspected.
With this information, we can efficiently assess your equipment and ensure a smooth inspection process.
Our inspections are suitable for a wide audience, including:
- Schools, public institutions, and playgrounds.
- Manufacturers, landscapers, designers, and managers of playground equipment.
The initial inspection, or first-time approval, must be conducted by a Designated Inspection Body, such as TÜV NORD, before the equipment is put into use. The owner or manager is responsible for annual inspections and maintenance.
The location of the inspection depends on the type of equipment:
- Unit Inspections: Typically performed at the site where the playground equipment is installed.
- Type Inspections: Usually conducted at the factory or workshop where the representative sample is produced.
All playground equipment not intended for private use.