The per-item routine Checks Civic.ly builds in for individual pieces of play and outdoor-gym equipment. Weekly visual checks like these are what most insurers and a RoSPA inspector expect. For the whole-playground walk-round, see the Playground Area Sweep on the Open-Space Sweeps page.
Before you use this checklist: you don't build these — they're built in and matched to your assets. To put one on someone's phone, create an inspection (or a job) on the asset and pick the checklist. A checklist only appears for the right asset type. See How to Use a Checklist.
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Balance Beam Check
Covers: Balance beam, Low Rope, Play Log, Stepping Pod, Wobble Bridge. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Check surfacing around approach and landing zones for wear or displacement. Ensure impact absorption meets requirements of BS EN 1177. Remove debris, contaminants, or compacted areas that reduce effectiveness.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Look for exposed or damaged bolt ends, cracked end caps, or splintering timber surfaces. Ensure protective caps and smooth finishes are in place to reduce injury risk as per BS EN 1176.
FUNCTIONALITY
Contact Surfaces
Good conditionSlightly uncomfortablePoor grip or comfortDamaged contact surfaceHazardous contact surface
ⓘ Guidance
Check the beam’s walking surface for cracks, splinters, or worn grip. Ensure side rails (if present) remain secure and smooth. Remove hazards that reduce safe balance use.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Summarize the general play value and safety of the beam, considering structural fixings, surfacing, and beam surface condition. Record findings in line with BS EN 1176 and BS EN 1177.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure beam surfaces are free from contamination or graffiti that could reduce traction or cause slips. Clean biological growth to maintain safe footing.
Basic Play Check
Covers: Balance Beam, Ball Stop Net, Binoculars On Post, Castle Barriers, Kinetic Play Panel, Play Panel, Play Tunnel, Playground Static Phone, and 10 more. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect the ground surface for trip hazards, pooling water, or loose material. Confirm that drainage is functioning and surfaces remain safe for use as per relevant guidelines.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Check carefully for protruding bolts, rough edges, or sharp points that may injure users. Ensure safety caps are fitted and damaged components are reported immediately.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Provide a summary judgment considering structural safety, cleanliness, and usability. This is the key update for the asset’s record, so ensure observations are accurate and justified.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Look for dirt, litter, graffiti, or signs of algae and moss that may affect safety or appearance. Ensure surfaces are safe, hygienic, and maintained in accordance with good practice.
Cableway Check
Covers: Flying Fox, Traverse Wire, Zip Line. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect surfacing under the cableway path and landing areas for wear or displacement. Ensure surfacing provides required impact attenuation as per BS EN 1177. Remove pooling water, debris, or uneven patches.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Pay attention to exposed fasteners, cable clamp ends, and trolley housings. Verify protective covers are intact and no sharp projections exist in user zones, as per BS EN 1176-4.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Summarize the overall safety and usability of the cableway, considering cable tension, trolley condition, and surfacing. Record findings in line with BS EN 1176-4 and BS EN 1177.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure grips, platforms, and seats are clean, dry, and safe for use. Remove graffiti or growth that reduces visibility or usability. Keep launch and landing areas clear.
Climbing Frame Check
Covers: Aerial Web, Climbing Boulder, Climbing Frame, Climbing Net, Climbing Play Structure, Climbing Pole, Climbing Wall, Crows Nest, and 3 more. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect surfacing for wear or displacement around high-use zones like landings and rope bases. Ensure surfacing provides suitable impact attenuation as per BS EN 1177. Watch for pooling water or erosion.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Look for exposed bolt threads, worn rope clamps, or splintering edges. Verify all protective covers and end caps are secure to prevent contact injuries as per BS EN 1176-9.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Summarize the general safety and usability of the climbing frame, considering rope condition, frame stability, and surface maintenance. Record findings as per BS EN 1176 requirements.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure rungs, platforms, and holds are clean and safe for grip and foot placement. Remove graffiti and debris promptly to maintain safe play conditions.
Multi Play Unit Check
Covers: Multi Activity Unit, Pirate Ship, Play Castle, Play Space Rocket, Playground Fort, Playground Tower, Playhouse, Soft Play, and 2 more. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Check high-use zones at slide exits, under climbing elements, and along moving bridges for displacement or contamination. Ensure the surface offers suitable impact attenuation as per BS EN 1177 and is free from pooling water or trip hazards.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Focus on exposed fastener threads, damaged deck edges, or sharp points on moving components. Verify caps/covers are secure and no hardware projects into user areas, as per BS EN 1176 requirements.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Provide a concise summary of structural integrity, surfacing, and moving components. Note any defects requiring swift action and document as per applicable BS EN 1176 parts and BS EN 1177.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure platforms, grips and slide surfaces are clean and provide safe traction/handhold. Record and remove graffiti and debris promptly to maintain safe play conditions and visibility of signage.
Outdoor Gym Check
Covers: Air Walker, Balance Beam, Battle Rope, Body Twister, Chest Press, Circuit Station, Cross Trainer, Dips/Leg Raise, and 19 more. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect surfacing for wear, displacement, or pooling water. Ensure the area is free from hazards such as glass, litter, or sharp objects that could cause injury during use.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Look for exposed bolt threads, damaged caps, or cracked surfaces. Ensure protective covers are in place and secure. Record any hazards requiring immediate attention.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Provide a quick summary judgment considering surfacing, fixings, protrusions, and cleanliness. Use this as a high-level indicator until the next operational or annual inspection.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure equipment surfaces are free of dirt, chewing gum, and graffiti. Look for moss or algae that may cause slipping hazards. Record where cleaning is required to maintain safety and usability.
Roundabout Check
Covers: Gyro spinner, Merry-Go-Round, Play Roundabout, Rotating Net, Seated roundabout, Spinner, Spinning Bowl, Spinning Net. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect the safety surfacing for displacement, wear, or contamination. Ensure the surfacing provides appropriate impact absorption as per BS EN 1177. Check for water pooling or erosion that could create hazards.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Focus on exposed fasteners, damaged deck edges, or sharp points on rotating parts. Verify all protective covers and caps are in place to prevent injury, in line with BS EN 1176-5.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Provide a summary judgment on the roundabout’s usability, safety, and cleanliness. Consider fasteners, deck stability, and surfacing condition. Record findings to guide future maintenance as per BS EN 1176.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure deck surfaces remain slip-resistant and free of debris or graffiti. Biological growth should be cleaned promptly to maintain safe grip and footing for users.
Seesaw Check
Covers: See-Saw, Spring Seesaw, Teeter-Totter. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect the surface for wear, displacement, or contamination. Ensure impact attenuation material provides the required depth and coverage as per BS EN 1177. Check for pooling water and trip hazards.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Pay close attention to exposed bolt ends, sharp wear on pivot pins, or damaged seat/handle connections. Ensure all caps, covers, and guards are securely in place as per BS EN 1176-6 requirements.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Summarize the overall safety and usability of the seesaw considering structure, moving parts, and surface condition. Record findings to guide future maintenance as per BS EN 1176.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure surfaces are clean, free from hazardous growth or contamination. Graffiti and sharp debris should be documented and removed promptly to maintain safe play conditions.
Slide Check
Covers: Chute, Slide. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect the surface to confirm it is free from erosion, debris, or waterlogging. Ensure the surface offers adequate impact attenuation as per BS EN 1177. Pay attention to wear zones at the chute exit.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Focus on detecting sharp metal edges, exposed bolt threads, or splintering materials that may harm users. Ensure all protective caps are secure as per BS EN 1176-1 requirements.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Summarize the slide’s overall state after completing checks. Consider wear, safety, cleanliness, and stability. Align judgment with BS EN 1176 guidance and flag urgent issues where required.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Look for signs of vandalism, dirt, moss, or contamination that may affect safe use. Cleanliness should be maintained to prevent slips and ensure hygienic conditions as per operational best practice.
Spring Rider Check
Covers: Rocking Cockerel, Rocking Cow, Rocking Dog, Rocking Elephant, Rocking Frog, Rocking Horse, Rocking Marmoset, Sit in Spring Toy, and 6 more. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect surfacing at landing zones around the seat and footrests for wear or displacement. Ensure it provides required impact absorption as per BS EN 1177. Remove any debris, standing water, or compacted areas.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Focus on exposed bolt threads, cracked housings, or sharp spring ends. Ensure all fasteners have protective caps and guards in place, as per BS EN 1176-6 requirements.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Summarize the overall play value and safety of the spring rider, considering surfacing, spring function, and user contact surfaces. Record findings in line with BS EN 1176-6 and BS EN 1177.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Ensure all user contact points are clean and free from contamination. Document graffiti and remove promptly. Clean surfaces to prevent slipping or grip reduction.
Swing Check
Covers: Basket Swing, Kiddy Seat, Rope Swing, Still Ring, Swing, Wheelchair Accessible Swings. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Check the surfacing for wear in high-use zones under and around the swing seats. Ensure it provides adequate impact absorption as per BS EN 1177. Watch for contamination, displacement, or pooling water.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding part
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect chains and shackles for sharp wear points or protruding hardware. Verify all fasteners are capped or rounded. Pay attention to areas where children hold or may come into contact.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Summarize the swing’s overall state after completing checks. Consider fastener wear, chain and seat condition, surfacing adequacy, and cleanliness. Reference BS EN 1176 standards when forming judgment.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contamination
ⓘ Guidance
Look for dirt, chewing gum, graffiti, or contamination that could impact hygiene or grip. Surfaces should be free from slippery substances. Clean as needed to maintain safe use.
Trampoline Check
Covers: Trampoline. recommended weekly.
SAFETY
Ground Surface Condition
Good surfaceThinning surfaceSurface displacedSurface contaminatedNo surface present
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect for displacement from repeated jumping, contamination buildup, or inadequate coverage. Ensure the surface is consistent with safety expectations as per BS EN 1176-1 and BS EN 1177, avoiding specific depth measurements. Identify areas where surfacing may no longer provide effective shock attenuation.
Hazardous Protrusions
No hazardsRough edgeSplinteringSharp edgeProtruding partN/A
ⓘ Guidance
Review all frame and fixing areas where users may encounter metal edges or fastener ends. Look for deformation or wear that could create snag or cut points. Consider BS EN 1176-1 principles for minimising entrapment and injury risks.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
NewGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Provide an overall judgement informed by mat integrity, spring performance, frame condition, and surface safety. Use this rating to reflect whether the trampoline remains fit for purpose or requires further inspection or repair. Align assessment with general safety principles of BS EN 1176-1.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Surface Cleanliness
Clean surfaceSlightly dirtyDirty surfaceGraffiti or markingsHazardous contaminationN/A
ⓘ Guidance
Inspect the mat, padding, and enclosure for buildup that could reduce grip, hide defects, or present health hazards. Note any contamination that may require immediate cleaning as per general safety expectations in BS EN 1176-1.
Exercise Area - Routine
Covers: Exercise Area. recommended monthly.
SAFETY
Slip Hazards
No slip hazardsWet leavesMoss or algaeMud on surfaceIce or frostMultiple slip hazards
ⓘ Guidance
Look for anything that could make surfaces slippery. Check for wet leaves that have built up, green moss or algae growth (especially on paths and steps), mud that has been walked onto hard surfaces, or ice in cold weather. Shaded areas and north-facing surfaces are most likely to have slip hazards.
Trip Hazards
No trip hazardsMinor unevennessRaised tree rootLifted slab or edgeHole or depressionMultiple trip hazards
ⓘ Guidance
Walk along the paths and across open areas, looking down for anything that could cause someone to trip. Check for tree roots pushing up through the ground, paving slabs that have lifted, holes or dips in the surface, and any objects left on the ground. Think about whether a child running or someone with a pushchair could trip.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
ExcellentGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Consider everything you have seen during this inspection. Pick the rating that best describes the overall state of the space. Select Excellent or Good if things look well cared for, Fair if there are minor issues, Poor if several problems need attention, or Critical if urgent action is required.
Surface Condition
Good surfaceMinor wearPotholeCracked surfaceRuttingSurface breaking upN/A
ⓘ Guidance
Walk across the main surface and look for any damage. Check for potholes (holes in the surface), cracks, rutting (grooves worn into the surface), or areas where the surface is breaking up. Minor wear like light scuffing is normal. Select N/A if there is no hard surface to check.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Dog Fouling
No foulingIsolated foulingFouling problemSevere foulingN/A
ⓘ Guidance
Walk along the main paths and across grassed areas looking for dog mess. Check areas near entrances and along popular walking routes. Isolated fouling means one or two instances. A fouling problem means multiple deposits that make the area unpleasant to use. Select N/A if dogs are not permitted in this space.
Litter
No litterLight litterLitteredBroken glassHeavy litter
ⓘ Guidance
Look around the whole area for rubbish on the ground. Check near bins, benches, and entrances where litter tends to gather. Pay special attention to broken glass which is a safety hazard. Light litter means a few items here and there. Heavy litter means rubbish is spread across the area and needs urgent clearing.
Playground Area - Routine
Covers: Playground Area. recommended monthly.
SAFETY
Slip Hazards
No slip hazardsWet leavesMoss or algaeMud on surfaceIce or frostMultiple slip hazards
ⓘ Guidance
Look for anything that could make surfaces slippery. Check for wet leaves that have built up, green moss or algae growth (especially on paths and steps), mud that has been walked onto hard surfaces, or ice in cold weather. Shaded areas and north-facing surfaces are most likely to have slip hazards.
Trip Hazards
No trip hazardsMinor unevennessRaised tree rootLifted slab or edgeHole or depressionMultiple trip hazards
ⓘ Guidance
Walk along the paths and across open areas, looking down for anything that could cause someone to trip. Check for tree roots pushing up through the ground, paving slabs that have lifted, holes or dips in the surface, and any objects left on the ground. Think about whether a child running or someone with a pushchair could trip.
CONDITION
Overall Condition
ExcellentGoodFairPoorCritical
ⓘ Guidance
Consider everything you have seen during this inspection. Pick the rating that best describes the overall state of the space. Select Excellent or Good if things look well cared for, Fair if there are minor issues, Poor if several problems need attention, or Critical if urgent action is required.
Surface Condition
Good surfaceMinor wearPotholeCracked surfaceRuttingSurface breaking upN/A
ⓘ Guidance
Walk across the main surface and look for any damage. Check for potholes (holes in the surface), cracks, rutting (grooves worn into the surface), or areas where the surface is breaking up. Minor wear like light scuffing is normal. Select N/A if there is no hard surface to check.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Dog Fouling
No foulingIsolated foulingFouling problemSevere foulingN/A
ⓘ Guidance
Walk along the main paths and across grassed areas looking for dog mess. Check areas near entrances and along popular walking routes. Isolated fouling means one or two instances. A fouling problem means multiple deposits that make the area unpleasant to use. Select N/A if dogs are not permitted in this space.
Litter
No litterLight litterLitteredBroken glassHeavy litter
ⓘ Guidance
Look around the whole area for rubbish on the ground. Check near bins, benches, and entrances where litter tends to gather. Pay special attention to broken glass which is a safety hazard. Light litter means a few items here and there. Heavy litter means rubbish is spread across the area and needs urgent clearing.
Using these checklists in Civic.ly
Every checklist here is built into Civic.ly as a standard template — you don't recreate it. Add the asset, create the inspection or job (standalone or via a routine), pick the checklist, and it appears on the assigned person's phone, with any fault raising a defect automatically. New to this? See How to Use a Checklist.
Common Questions
Most councils run a weekly visual check plus an annual independent inspection (e.g. RoSPA). Check your insurance policy — some specify the frequency as a condition of cover.
No — the annual inspection is done by an accredited external inspector. These weekly checks are your operational layer and the record that you acted between annual visits.