It is shocking when we see how many private kindergarten owners in Los Angeles, California are walking on the edge of criminal negligence. Nails, metal stakes, sticks, trip hazards, sticking out pipes, screws, and other objects are common on children's playgrounds. While parents are concerned with a slight potential of toxins in plastic milk bottles, the real danger of losing an eye or puncturing a knee is within reach. Often, it is too late when this s..t happens. We know about it, we see it. We want to guard your children, your business, and your career.
*Sample of unsafe installation above.
Building a playground with artificial grass can create a clean, low-maintenance, and fun space for children—but poor installation can lead to injuries, lawsuits, and even criminal negligence claims.
This guide covers:
✔ Key safety risks of artificial grass playgrounds
✔ How to hire a qualified contractor (avoiding legal & financial disasters)
✔ A step-by-step hiring plan to protect yourself
✔ Real cases of playground injuries from bad installations
No Time? Just read these 5 bullet points.
Please, please, please, read the paragraph below. It can save a life.
Remember, artificial grass installation is a heavy load occupation. Most artificial grass installation workers are generally uneducated and do not understand the consequences of using landscape approaches at playground facilities. They work in harsh conditions, get tired and lose focus. You are the one ultimately responsible for their mess.
1. No nails on the finish surface. Nails must not be used on artificial grass playgrounds. Most contractors attach foam or turf with nails. But nails will not hold. Instead turf shall be attached with staples or screws to the plank that is impossible to break or detach without special equipment and strong force.
2. Stakes and structural objects with bolts and screws must be covered, secured and inspected for safety. Often stakes stick out and sharp screw tops clearly visible on the edges. While you do not dig, your children do.
3. Do not install tall equipment on the artificial turf surface lacking the certified pad system. It is a ticket to jail.
4. Mold could trap underneath the material without proper drainage. Inspect turf for mold. Follow manufacturer recommendations for installation and cleaning. Opt for antimicrobial turf and infills for areas without sunlight and in coastal zones.
5. Lost razor blades, knives, and equipment. Do not trust anybody. Inspect the playground thoroughly. Look at the job site during work. See if the crew understands the importance of having an organized and clean construction site. If the trash is all over, you are screwed.
Why Artificial Grass Playgrounds? Benefits & Risks
✅ Benefits
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No mud or grass stains (easier cleanup).
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All-weather usability (drains quickly after rain, stays dry).
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Reduces maintenance costs (no mowing or watering).
❌ Risks of Poor Turf Installation
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Puncture wounds (exposed nails, sharp edges).
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Burns from overheated turf (cheap materials get dangerously hot, so shade is a must).
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Tripping hazards (wrinkles, uneven seams, poorly prepped base).
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Toxic materials (low-quality rubber infill can contain harmful chemicals).
📌 Real-Life Cases of Playground Injuries:
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Nail Puncture Incident (2022, Texas) – A child needed stitches after stepping on an exposed nail in poorly installed turf (ABC13 Report).
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Overheated Turf Burns (2021, Arizona) – A daycare was sued after kids suffered second-degree burns (AZCentral).
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Tripping Hazard Lawsuit (2020, California) – A school paid $250,000 in damages after a child broke an arm on uneven turf (SF Chronicle).
Step 1: Know Your Legal Responsibilities
As a kindergarten owner or manager, you are legally responsible for playground safety. If a child is injured due to negligent installation, you could face:
- Criminal negligence charges (if gross negligence is proven).
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Lawsuits (parents can sue for medical costs + pain/suffering).
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License revocation (if found in violation of safety codes).
Primary Duties of a Manager Hiring a Contractor
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Verify the contractor’s experience with playgrounds (not just lawns).
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Ensure materials meet safety standards (ASTM F1292 for impact absorption).
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Get proof of insurance (general liability + workers’ comp).
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Inspect the final installation (no exposed nails, proper drainage).
Step 2: How to Hire the Right Contractor (Avoiding Disasters)
🔍 Hiring Checklist for a Safe Playground
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Playground-Specific Experience | Lawn installers ≠ playground experts. |
| ASTM F1292-Compliant Materials | Ensures proper shock absorption. |
| General Liability Insurance ($2M+) | Protects you if a worker gets injured on-site. |
| Workers’ Compensation Insurance | Avoid lawsuits if a worker is hurt. |
| Written Warranty (5+ years) | Guarantees against defects. |
| References from Schools/Daycares | Confirms safe past projects. |
🚨 Red Flags to Avoid
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Contractors who refuse to provide proof of insurance.
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"Too good to be true" pricing (cheap turf = unsafe materials).
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No playground portfolio (only residential lawns).
Step 3: Installation Safety Inspections
Before allowing kids to play:
Post-Installation Checklist
✔ No exposed nails or staples (run hands over seams).
✔ Proper drainage (no puddles after spraying water).
✔ Secure edges (no tripping hazards).
✔ Cool surface (test on a hot day—should not burn skin).
📌 Pro Tip: Hire a third-party safety inspector (CPSC-certified) to verify compliance.
Step 4: Ongoing Maintenance & Liability Protection
Even the best turf needs upkeep to prevent lawsuits:
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Daily: Remove debris (sticks, rocks).
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Monthly: Check for loose seams/nails.
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Yearly: Professional inspection.
📄 Document Everything
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Keep maintenance logs.
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Save contractor contracts & warranties.
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Take before/after photos of repairs.
Final Advice: Protect Yourself, Protect the Kids
A single injury from bad turf can destroy your reputation, finances, and freedom. Follow this plan:
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Hire ONLY playground-specialized contractors (CSLB License Check).
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Demand ASTM-compliant materials (ASTM Safety Standards).
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Inspect, document, and maintain.
💡 Don’t gamble with children’s safety—choose wisely! 🌟
Even if we are not working in your city, feel free to shoot us an email or contact us for an advice. The least we can do is to give our opinion or send a professional inspector to your job site.
We deal with children, this is the best thing we have in our lives.
