Playground Safety Practices. Injury Prevention and Effective Investigation

Abstract

While technology and business patterns are evolving at a very high pace, new markets are developing, and so are consumer preferences and expectations. Over the past 30 years, entertainment industries have become sectors with immense profits and sustainable growth, the children segment being the greatest contender. However, the multitude of options in terms of attractions to choose from is not always accompanied by strict knowledge of operational standards, thus creating an increase in the risk of injury that children are subjected to during their play-time. Despite the fact that most playground equipment’s are not properly certified or do not comply with the specific provisions, most cases remain inconclusive, due to lack of evidence arising from a knowledge gap that the authorities must cover. In case of playground accidents, the investigators need to be well aware and up to date with the regulations, not only to determine who to hold accountable, but also to be able to take the necessary control measures in order to reduce children play-related injuries.