When planning or installing a playground, safety is always a top priority. One of the biggest questions we hear is: “Is safety surfacing a legal requirement?” The short answer is no—but there’s more to it than that. In this blog we'll delve into the ROSPA advice & explain the legal guidance.
What Is Safety Surfacing and Why Does It Matter?
Playground safety surfacing is designed to reduce the severity of injuries from falls. While it won’t stop accidents from happening, it can help minimise the harm—particularly head injuries—that result from falls onto hard ground.
Surfaces like rubber chippings or rubber bark can help cushion the impact, making play spaces safer for children of all ages.
ROSPA’s Advice on Playground Surfacing
Although there is no legal requirement for protective surfacing in UK playgrounds, several trusted safety bodies strongly recommend it. These include:
- ROSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents)
- BSI (British Standards Institution)
- NPFA (National Playing Fields Association)
- CAPT (Child Accident Prevention Trust)
Government departments have also supported the use of safety surfacing. In fact, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport recommended it in their 1993 guidelines. More recently, out-of-court settlements in playground injury cases suggest that courts view surfacing as best practice, especially under new or raised equipment.
Can Surfacing Prevent Playground Injuries?
Surfacing won’t reduce the number of falls, but it can reduce the severity of injuries. It’s especially helpful in protecting against head injuries, which account for around 50% of playground-related hospital visits. However, some injuries—like long-bone fractures—may not be affected by the presence of safety surfacing.
Understanding Fall Height and Safety Standards
Safety surfacing is tested under BS EN 1177:2008, which provides two important ratings:
- Critical Fall Height (CFH): The maximum height from which a fall is considered safe onto a given surface.
- HIC (Head Injury Criteria): A scientific measure of how likely a surface is to cause a serious head injury.
Example: For equipment with a 1.5m fall height, you’ll usually need at least 50mm–75mm of rubber surfacing to meet HIC guidelines.
Product Suitability Guide
Choosing the right surface depends on who’s using it and what type of equipment is involved. Here's a quick guide:
| Product Type | Ideal For | Common Uses | HIC Certified |
| Rubber Bark | Toddlers & Young Kids | Nurseries, Schools, Gardens | Yes |
| Rubber Chippings | Older Children (5+) | Parks, Climbing Frames, Zip Lines | Yes |
| Loose Rubber Mulch | General All-Ages Use | Public Playgrounds, Sports Areas | Yes |
Real-World Advice for Younger Children
Even if a product is safety-certified, it may still feel too coarse or “spiky” for younger children. That’s why supervision is key, especially if children might try putting the product in their mouths.
Rubber bark tends to have a softer texture and is often the best choice for younger age groups.
FAQs
What depth of rubber chippings do I need?
The recommended depth depends on the fall height of your play equipment. Typically, 50mm is suitable for fall heights up to 1.5m, but always check the HIC rating for the product.
How long does rubber playground surfacing last?
Our rubber products are extremely durable and can last for many years with minimal maintenance.
Is rubber surfacing safe for pets and young children?
Yes! Our products are non-toxic and tested for safety. That said, young children should always be supervised during play.
Will it work in wet or shaded areas?
Yes, rubber chippings and bark are free-draining and ideal for damp or shaded gardens and public play areas.
Can I get a sample before ordering?
Absolutely—we recommend ordering a free sample to see which product best suits your needs.
Need Help Choosing the Right Surface?
Whether you're resurfacing a school playground, adding safety surfacing to your garden, or planning a large public space, we can help. Get in touch with our team or request a free sample today.
Further Reading: For more in-depth information, visit ROSPA’s official guidance on surfacing.