Playground Fencing and Gates

Public playgrounds and play areas should have a perimeter fence or railings, and access gates. This helps to contain children within the safe playground or play area, keeping them away from hazards in the park such as roads or open water, but also keeping other users of the park segmented from the playground. This could be dogs off leads; reducing the chance of dogs fouling in the playground, people cycling through the park, and also keeping ball games separate. In addition, a playground fence or railings will help children feel secure but also allow independence, having an area dedicated for play.

The most common playground fence height is 1.1m but a height between 1.0m to 1.2m is acceptable. The minimum height of a playground fence should be 1.0m. This is enough to try and discourage children climbing the fence rather than using a gate. Do note that you will never stop older children climbing fencing around a playground, so it is important that the fence is strong and designed for play areas with anti-trap properties preventing children getting their heads, necks or limbs stuck between the pales.

This usually depends on the surroundings. The materials are commonly steel for metal anti-trap playground railings, which are usually powder coated to provide a welcoming environment, or timber. It is important to install a timber fence that is well treated and provides a long warranty. No matter the material it is vital that the fence will provide protection against vandalism, has anti-trap properties, and complies with BS EN 1176 play fence standard.

A metal railing with anti-trap properties designed for playgrounds is key. This will usually be a design where the gap between each hoop above the top rail is wider, preventing children getting their heads, necks, or limbs stuck between metal railing pales. A tubular pale-through-rail design to provide a strong structure without visible joints and vandal proof connectors is also recommended to provide longevity as it has less chance of being vandalised. Powder coating to make the area feel welcoming for children is also a high priority.

Avoid standard timber palisade or picked fencing, this style of fencing can be easily vandalised and poses a risk to children using the park as the pales often do not have anti-trap properties. Look for a fence that is designed for playgrounds or play areas with anti-trap tops/pale spacing, pales sandwiched between rails, safe anti-vandal fixings and is provided with a long treatment warranty (25 years). This reduces the risk of children getting their limbs or necks stuck, the fence having to be replaced due to vandalism, and also increases longevity.