Commercial playgrounds are great places to have fun, make friends, and develop wonderful abilities. However, research by the University of Arizona shows that 50% of these playground structures and equipment surfaces are contaminated with sickness-causing viruses and bacteria, making them twice as harmful as public restrooms. Depending on environmental factors, virus type, and playground practices, these viruses can live on playground equipment for a few hours to several weeks.
Understanding the role of the following crucial factors that contribute to the longevity of germs on commercial playground equipment allows parents and playground supervisors to enact safety measures that ensure safe play for children.
The type of surface material can greatly affect the chances that a virus will survive. Germs tend to live longer on non-porous materials like metal swing sets and plastic slides than on porous materials like wooden swings. However, their smooth surfaces, especially those made from durable materials, allow easy cleaning and disinfection, making them the top safe choice for commercial playground equipment due to the lesser risk and spread of infection.
Varying temperatures can impact viruses' longevity differently on playground equipment. Extreme cold allows these germs to survive longer on common park and school play equipment like swings and monkey bars, especially during winter. In contrast, warmer environments like sunny parks and open school play areas help weaken viruses easily.
Humidity levels also determine how long bacteria can thrive on play equipment surfaces in standard and inclusive playgrounds. Higher humidity, especially in shaded areas, can stabilize the lifespan of viruses and easily turn community playgrounds and other areas into hotspots for illnesses. Low humidity and proper ventilation can lower this risk.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight is an effective natural disinfectant in inactivating these viruses. Playground equipment with direct sun exposure tended to have lower viral loads compared to those in shaded play areas, reducing the likelihood of kids getting sick in their outdoor play during sunny days.
The cleanliness of the equipment surface and the playground's disinfection practices can also control the virus survival. Dirty playground sets and disheveled high-contact areas can turn into breeding grounds for germs and infection when left unaddressed.
Get to know some of these viruses, their common duration, their effects on children, and the typical locations or commercial playground equipment they thrive on.
This virus type can survive up to 48 hours on hard surfaces, popular playground equipment like swing sets and slides, and high-touch areas of commercial playgrounds, such as handles and rails. The influenza virus can cause flu-like symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches, spreading easily among kids at schools and parks, particularly during flu season.
Rhinoviruses, the primary cause of the common cold, can linger on outdoor surfaces like play structures and monkey bars for 24 hours to 7 days. Children in frequent close contact with the infected shared playground equipment may experience sneezing, runny nose, and sore throat.
Norovirus is notorious for causing severe stomach issues, including vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, in children, and can rapidly spread in daycare and school playground settings. Capable of surviving for several days to weeks, this virus is commonly found on inclusive playgrounds and in sandbox areas where hand-to-mouth contact is frequent.
Adenoviruses can persist for up to 30 days on various play equipment like swings, slides, and play structures in school playgrounds and community parks. These germs are responsible for respiratory infections, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and stomach issues in kids.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes the infamous COVID-19, can cause fever, cough, and potential respiratory issues once children get infected. It thrives on non-porous surfaces like plastic and metal and other shared equipment with high-touch contact from 72 hours to several days.
Here are some important ways to prevent commercial playground equipment from becoming a breeding ground for germs:
Routine cleaning and disinfection of commercial playground equipment is the first line of defense against these viruses. Mild detergent or soap and water should be used to remove dirt and debris, followed by thorough disinfection with a playground-safe, EPA-approved product. Maintain a regular cleaning and disinfection schedule, especially after peak usage hours and periods of extreme weather.
Installing hand sanitizers near play areas and providing portable handwashing stations can help children develop proper sanitation habits before and after playing. This simple habit can significantly reduce the spread of germs and protect kids from direct contact with infectious viruses.
Parents, guardians, and playground staff should teach kids about proper hygiene practices when using shared playground equipment. Remind children to avoid touching their face, mouth, or nose while playing to help prevent the spread of infection. Encourage them to tell their guardians if they feel sick and to stop using the playground equipment immediately if they have any symptoms of illness.
Aside from providing maximum fun and play experience for kids, the best commercial playground equipment should be easy to clean and is less likely to harbor germs. They are usually made with durable, bacteria-resistant materials and strengthened with antimicrobial coatings and paint.
As much as we appreciate playgrounds as children's safe spaces for growth and friendships, we should never overlook the unseen dangers brought by viruses and bacteria that come with commercial playground equipment. At AAA State of Play, we provide a great selection of play equipment that supports children's physical and social development and is easy to clean to maintain proper hygiene and safety. Contact us for your playground equipment needs today!
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Kelly has been a CPSI-certified playground inspector for several years. Her passion for play and attention to detail bring immense value to every playground she brings to life, and with her years of experience, every playground she visits is made better for her having been there. In her leisure time, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family.
