ASTM F1292-18e1 PDF Download

According to the standard specification ASTM F1292-18e1, playground surfacing materials must meet minimum performance standards for impact attenuation within the use zone of playground equipment. This specification's goal is to lessen the possibility of severe head injuries from falls. It offers a way to assess impact attenuation effectiveness through the use of a test technique that replicates the impact of a child's head on the surface. The test method measures impact using the Head Injury Criteria (HIC) and g-max (highest acceleration) values.

The critical fall height test and the installed surface performance test are the two tests used to measure impact attenuation. In the critical fall height test, the maximum fall height at which the surfacing material offers sufficient impact attenuation is measured. The installed surface performance test assesses the surfacing material's performance under actual installation circumstances.

The standard also lists the equipment that must be used to carry out the tests, such as a thermometer, an impact test system, an acceleration measurement system, a drop height measurement system, and equipment that runs on batteries.

This specification is crucial for defining the impact attenuation capabilities of playground surfacing materials and assessing how well various materials perform in comparison to one another. It should be used as a guide when determining the relative risk of suffering a severe head injury from falling. It's important to note that the standard does not address additional elements that contribute to fall-related injuries and that following this specification does not ensure that all injuries and fatalities will be avoided.