Connect with place - checklist

Access/surfaces

Are there any barriers which prevent access?

• Steps, kerbs or trip hazards

Is there a circulation path that is accessible and easy to navigate?

• Wide path: 1.2m minimum, 1.8m allows two wheelchairs/prams to pass each other
• Gentle slopes: Maximum 1:20 slope (refer Australian Standards)
• Consistent material: different from surrounding surfaces
• Edge: flush with surrounding surfaces, consider high contrast colour to edge

Are there tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) to indicate hazards?

• Use warning tactiles: for example top of slide flush with ground, top/bottom of stairs, ramps

Do raised platforms, walkways and ramps have a safe edge?

• Ensure there is a kickplate or handrail on the edge (refer to Australian Standards)

Can the entry gate be opened by an adult in a wheelchair or with limited mobility?

• Consider additional means of access (swipe card, buzzer, MLAK key)

Is the play equipment accessible?

• Equipment flush with adjacent surfaces (for example carousels, top of slides)
• Entry/exit point of equipment has accessible surface (for example, rubber softfall path to access swing/seat)
• Interactive elements are at a reachable height
• Play tables to allow for wheelchair access

Can everyone access the ‘coolest thing’ in the playspace?

• If elevated, ensure the ‘coolest thing’ has a ramped access point

Does everyone have an opportunity to play with nature?

• Not all nature play’ elements can be accessible; however, ensure there are some that can be accessed by all

Landscape

Has the space been reviewed to understand the natural environment?

• Sun: face equipment away from northern sun (for example slides face south)
• Wind: use screening to protect picnic/quiet areas from wind (if required)
• Natural features: utilise existing nature (vegetation, trees, views or creeks)
• Does the playspace have adequate shade over key play areas and seating?

Layout

Is the playspace easy to navigate?

• Provide a clear logical layout from entry to exit with play zones arranged adjacent to a main circulation path

Is there a defined entry with adequate space?

• Ensure there is enough paved area for people to congregate, wait, sit and supervise

Is there a secure boundary enclosure around the space?

• Ideally the entire playspace should be within a secure boundary enclosure including open grass, natural play and picnic areas

Are the different activity zones easy to identify?

• Consider active/passive/quiet/circulation zones
• Consider different colour groups/surfaces to define each zone. The quiet zones should be away from the active zones

Is there adequate space between play equipment?

• Consider play equipment fall zones, movement zones, areas to ‘wait your turn’ and space for multiple users

Location

Are there public transport links close by?

• Bus, train or tram

Are there accessible car parking spaces?

• Ensure car parks comply with Australian Standards
• A highly used playspace will need more than the minimum requirement for accessible car parks
• A bus parking/drop-off zone should be considered

Are there existing safe and accessible path/cycle networks and pedestrian crossings?

• Smooth surfaces, wide paths, gentle slopes or kerb ramps

Has a traffic analysis of nearby roads been completed?

• Locate the playspace a safe distance from adjacent roads. Consider traffic calming devices if traffic volumes are high

Are there existing accessible facilities nearby?

• Toilet, café or supermarket

Are there existing community groups in the area that the playspace can connect with?

• Schools, kindergartens, playgroups, sporting clubs or community centres

Signage/wayfinding

Is the entrance/exit easy to find?

• Provide at least two entry points

Does the signage make everyone feel welcome?

• signage promoting inclusivity
• cultural signage (for example Aboriginal language/symbols)

Can the playspace be found easily online?

• Provide a map, identify playspace features (toilets, shade, car parking, change table or fencing) and provide directions on how to get there

Is the signage easily understood by everyone?

• Text: use sans-serif fonts, select appropriate colour contrast, avoid using ALL CAPS or underlines
• Not just text: include simple images/symbols and Braille
• Height: readable by children and those in wheelchairs (suggest 1m from ground)
• Map: consider a tactile map at the entry showing access paths and key features
• Audio: consider providing audio information about the park

“Slides my carer can take me down, more ramps to help, and some more round swings to lie on instead of sitting up.”