All Seasons of Supporting Children's Play:
In conjunction with the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) and Health Canada, NPPS is pleased to announce the release of Thermally Comfortable Playgrounds. This report is a collection of research and ideas to reduce risks from extreme temperatures and solar exposure. Thermally Comfortable Playgrounds collects the most recent research and practical knowledge from child health professionals and experts within the playground industry. These experts agree significant efforts should focus on the topic of thermally safe and comfortable playgrounds and should be included in future research, as well as playground standards and guidelines. It draws upon a literature review and a survey of these experts while summarizing design practices and site features that create safe and comfortable playgrounds for all seasons of play. The report considers factors such as natural and artificial shade features, material and color selection for equipment and surfaces, and playground equipment placement before presenting a set of evidence-based recommendations that can be included in equipment and design standards.
Impacts of Thermally Comfortable Playgrounds
Development of the guidelines in Thermally Comfortable Playgrounds was facilitated by research conducted by NPPS. The project was supported by the Standards Council of Canada’s Standards to Support Resilience in Infrastructure Program, with guidance from the Climate Change and Innovation Bureau at Health Canada. In 2019, the results of this research were provided, for consideration, to the CSA Group technical committee responsible for CSA Z614:20 Children’s playground equipment and surfacing. The 2020 edition of CSA Z614 includes an informative annex on thermal comfort that draws on the recommendations of this report.
About the Standards Council of Canada
The Standards Council of Canada (SCC) is a federal Crown corporation responsible for promoting standardization in Canada. SCC leads and facilitates the development and use of national and international standards and accreditation services in order to enhance Canada's competitiveness and well-being.
SCC’s mission involves working with its stakeholders and customers to promote efficient and effective standardization that strengthens Canada’s competitiveness and social well-being.