BS 8409:2009 PDF

BS 8409:2009 Fully enclosed play facilities. Code of practice BS 8409 is an important standard to improve safety records and reduce risks in indoor play areas for children. It is important for the development of children that, through play, they arrive at an understanding of risk and can assess potential danger. This helps children to develop the basis for assessing risk in various situations. The balance between challenge and safety is an important consideration for all play environments. The best facilities and environments are those that, through careful design, management and maintenance, offer children good play experiences without compromising safety. Precautions need to be taken by play providers to reduce the risk of injuries, although the possibility of harm cannot be completely removed. BS 8409 will help play providers develop facilities that children find enjoyable and reduce the risk of serious or disabling injury. BS 8409 gives recommendations for and guidance on supplier selection, safe operation and management of fully enclosed play facilities and associated buildings. The principles of safety management in this standard apply to both workplaces in general as well as to play provision. The balance however between safety and benefits is likely to be different in the two environments. In play provision, exposure to some degree of risk may be of benefit because it satisfies a basic human need and gives children the chance to learn about risk and consequences in a controlled environment. This standard should be used in conjunction with the BS EN 1176 series of standards on playground equipment and surfacing. Who should use BS 8409?