JE&T involved with playground equipment repairs/removal in North Hykeham – 1960’s roundabout
This week we have completed some playground equipment repairs for North Hykeham Town council.
The first job was the removal of a 1960’s roundabout. We did originally quote to repair and restore it, however it was deemed not suitable due to health and safety regulations. Before we had chance to remove it in one piece, unfortunately it was partially dismantled so this left us with the only option of sectioning it to remove it safely. Using our mobile workshop the structure was cut into sections with our plasma cutter and then disposed of.
Following on from this we have offered our services for some mobile welding services and also repairs in our workshop followed by blasting and painting.
Check out our website and gallery for more examples of what we can provide
Playground equipment repairs – just some of the things to consider
Playground equipment repairs are essential to ensure the safety and functionality of the equipment for children’s play. Here are some general steps you can follow for playground equipment repairs prior to getting in an expert:
- Inspection: Begin by thoroughly inspecting all the playground equipment. Look for any signs of damage, wear and tear, loose or missing parts, rust, or other issues that might compromise safety.
- Make a repair plan: Based on the inspection, create a detailed repair plan outlining what needs to be fixed, replaced, or maintained. Prioritize repairs based on the severity of the issues.
- Gather necessary tools and materials: Make sure you have all the required tools and replacement parts ready before starting the playground equipment repairs. This may include wrenches, screwdrivers, lubricants, replacement nuts and bolts, paint, etc.
- Secure the area: If the playground is open to the public, ensure it is cordoned off to prevent children from accessing it while repairs are underway.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications for each piece of equipment. This will help you understand the proper repair techniques and ensure the equipment remains compliant with safety standards.
- Fix structural issues: Address any structural issues first, as they can have a significant impact on the safety of the playground equipment. Repair or replace broken or cracked components, such as swings, slides, climbing frames, and handrails.
- Tighten bolts and fasteners: Check and tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws on the equipment to ensure they are secure. Over time, these may loosen due to use and weather conditions.
- Lubricate moving parts: Lubricate any moving parts, such as hinges, chains, and bearings, to keep them functioning smoothly and prevent unnecessary wear.
- Address surface damage: Inspect and repair any damage to the safety surfacing material, such as rubber mulch, sand, or safety tiles, to provide a safe environment for play.
- Repaint and protect: If applicable, repaint any faded or chipped surfaces to protect against corrosion and provide a fresh look to the equipment.
- Test the equipment: After completing the playground equipment repairs, test the playground equipment to ensure everything is working correctly and safely.
- Regular maintenance: Establish a regular maintenance schedule to prevent future issues and keep the equipment in good condition. Regularly inspect and clean the playground, and address any emerging problems promptly.
A few examples of what playground equipment repairs we can offer
- Swing Seat Replacement: Over time, swing seats can wear out or become damaged. To repair them, you might need to replace the old seats with new ones. This involves removing the old seat, inspecting the chains and hardware, and installing a new seat according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Slide Crack Repair: If a slide has a crack or damage on the surface, it’s crucial to repair it promptly. Depending on the material of the slide (plastic, metal, etc.), the repair process may involve patching the crack, sanding down rough edges, and applying a protective sealant or paint.
- Climbing Net Fixing: Climbing nets are susceptible to wear and tear due to constant use. Repairing a climbing net might involve retying and securing loose or frayed ropes, replacing damaged sections, or reinforcing attachment points.
- Seesaw Pivot Replacement: Seesaws have pivots at their base that allow them to move up and down. If the pivot becomes rusted or damaged, it can compromise the seesaw’s function and safety. Replacing the pivot typically involves disassembling the seesaw, removing the old pivot, and installing a new one.
- Safety Surfacing Repair: Playground safety surfacing, such as rubber tiles or mulch, can deteriorate or become uneven over time. Repairing the safety surfacing may involve leveling the ground, adding new surfacing material, or replacing damaged tiles.
- Fixing Loose Handrails: Handrails on staircases and climbing structures may become loose over time due to heavy use. Repairing them might involve tightening bolts, nuts, or screws, or replacing any damaged hardware.
- Merry-Go-Round Maintenance: Merry-go-rounds require regular maintenance to keep them safe. This might involve greasing the bearings to ensure smooth rotation, inspecting the centre pole for stability, and checking the platform and safety bars for any issues.
- Chain Replacement on Swings: Chains on swings can wear out or become damaged. To repair them, you’ll need to replace the chains with new ones and ensure they are properly connected to the swing seats and frame.
- Basketball Hoop Fixing: If the basketball hoop is loose or misaligned, you may need to adjust or replace the mounting hardware, or possibly reinforce the backboard and hoop to maintain stability.
- Repairing Torn Shade Canopies: Playground equipment repairs to shade structures often have fabric canopies that can tear or become damaged by weather elements. Repairing them involves patching or sewing the tears, or in some cases, replacing the entire canopy.
Remember, if you encounter complex or major playground equipment repairs beyond your expertise, it’s best to seek assistance from playground equipment repairs professional services to ensure the safety of the children using the playground.
