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Play Area Supervision

Playgrounds can pose risks and potential hazards that can lead to injuries. This is why playground supervision is critical in ensuring children's safety while they play.

The importance of playground supervision is recognized in the European standard EN1176 and the New Zealand standard NZS5828. Both standards have been developed with full recognition of the need for supervision of young children and of those who may be less able or less competent. By providing proper supervision, parents, caregivers, and playground operators can help prevent accidents and ensure that children are using the equipment safely.

Additionally, it is worth noting that in some countries, the legal obligation of parental supervision of children on playgrounds is explicitly stated in their national laws. For example, in Germany, parents' obligatory supervision of their children is laid down in the German Code of Civil Law (BGB)1631. This law places a duty on parents to supervise and protect their children, including ensuring that they do not suffer injuries while playing on playgrounds.

Moreover, specific guidelines for the supervision of young children are included in the European standard EN1176. In section F.3.2, the standard emphasizes the need for close supervision of infants and toddlers who may not have developed the skills to play safely on their own.

In summary, playground supervision is a crucial element in ensuring children's safety while they play. Both the European standard EN1176 and the New Zealand standard NZS5828 recognize the need for proper supervision of young children and those who may be less able or less competent. It is also worth noting that in some countries, such as Germany, the legal obligation of parental supervision is explicitly stated in their national laws.


By providing adequate supervision, we can create a safer and more enjoyable play environment for all children.



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