Australia Playground Inspection Checklist (AS 4685)
This playground inspection checklist ensures compliance with AS 4685 Playground Equipment and Performance Requirements series, AS 4422 Playground Surfacing, and local council playground safety requirements. Covers routine visual inspections, operational inspections, and annual comprehensive inspections. Equipment must meet safety standards to minimise risk of injury from falls, entrapment, and structural failure.
- Industry: Facilities Management
- Frequency: Weekly (routine) / Monthly (operational)
- Estimated Time: 30-40 minutes
- Role: Parks & Recreation Officer / Playground Inspector / Facility Manager
- Total Items: 29
- Compliance: AS 4685 Series, AS 4422 Playground Surfacing, AS/NZS 4486.1 Playgrounds, Local Council Requirements, WHS Act 2011
General Site Conditions
Overall playground site assessment.
- Site clean and free from litter, glass, and sharp objects?
- No hazardous materials (syringes, chemicals)?
- Boundary fencing in good condition (if present)?
- Playground signage present (age range, contact info)?
- Shade structures in good condition?
Surfacing & Fall Zones (AS 4422)
Impact-attenuating surfacing and fall zone compliance.
- Impact-attenuating surfacing adequate depth/condition?
- Fall zones clear of obstructions and other equipment?
- Surfacing material type
- Surfacing not displaced or compacted?
- Drainage adequate (no waterlogging)?
Structural Integrity
Equipment structural condition and stability.
- Equipment foundations stable and not exposed?
- All fasteners, bolts, and connections secure?
- No significant corrosion, rot, or structural damage?
- Platforms and decks stable and secure?
- Welds intact with no cracking?
Entrapment & Protrusion Hazards
Head, finger, and clothing entrapment hazards.
- No head entrapment hazards (openings 89-230mm)?
- No finger entrapment hazards?
- No clothing entrapment hazards (hooks, gaps)?
- No dangerous protrusions or sharp edges?
Individual Equipment Checks
Specific equipment functional checks.
- Swing seats, chains, and bearings in good condition?
- Slides smooth, secure, and free from damage?
- Climbing equipment secure and in good condition?
- See-saw/rocker equipment working correctly?
- Rotating equipment (carousel) functioning safely?
Accessibility & Amenities
Accessible design and amenities.
- Accessible path of travel to playground?
- Accessible equipment elements provided?
- Seating for carers/parents available?
- Waste bins available and serviced?
- Additional observations and actions required
Related Facilities Checklists
- Australia Swimming Pool Safety Checklist (AS 1926)
- Australia Swimming Pool Safety Checklist (AS 1926)
- Gym and Fitness Center Daily Safety Inspection Checklist
- Marina and Boat Dock Safety Inspection Checklist
- Office Ergonomics and Workstation Assessment Checklist
- Security Guard Daily Patrol Inspection Checklist
Related Community Safety Checklists
Why Use This Australia Playground Inspection Checklist (AS 4685)?
This australia playground inspection checklist (as 4685) helps facilities management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for parks & recreation officer / playground inspector / facility manager professionals, this checklist covers 29 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: weekly (routine) / monthly (operational).
Ensures compliance with AS 4685 Series, AS 4422 Playground Surfacing, AS/NZS 4486.1 Playgrounds, Local Council Requirements, WHS Act 2011. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Australia Playground Inspection Checklist (AS 4685) cover?
This checklist covers 29 inspection items across 6 sections: General Site Conditions, Surfacing & Fall Zones (AS 4422), Structural Integrity, Entrapment & Protrusion Hazards, Individual Equipment Checks, Accessibility & Amenities. It is designed for facilities management operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed weekly (routine) / monthly (operational). Each completion takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
Who should use this Australia Playground Inspection Checklist (AS 4685)?
This checklist is designed for Parks & Recreation Officer / Playground Inspector / Facility Manager professionals in the facilities management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.