Hot playgrounds – our design solutions

Article published on 17 March 2022

As providers of playgrounds and fitness areas Australia-wide we care deeply about the safety and comfort of people using outdoor recreational facilities. We are all becoming more aware of the potential health issues that can be caused by high levels of heat and UV in the Australian outdoors. Proludic is taking action to learn more about these issues, inform our clients and provide solutions to help reduce the possible discomforts caused by heat.

It’s hot out there in the sun! – How we adapt Proludic play equipment to suit Australian weather conditions

We all need to take care when playing or exercising outside, and that includes being aware that parts of play equipment such as slides and large swing seats may heat up when exposed to direct sunlight on a hot day.

In Australia, we can adapt Proludic equipment to suit Australian weather conditions as part of our strategy of providing the best possible solutions for our clients. We can:

• Provide lighter colours of polyethylene slides, Pod Swing seats and Rotofun seats;
• Apply special coatings to help reduce the surface temperatures of stainless steel slides, carousel floors, and Wok bowls;
• Supply polyester slide alternatives on Multiplay units.

These adaptations help reduce surface temperatures on these parts in order to improve thermal comfort and lower the risk of heat-related incidents.

It’s also important to ensure the correct positioning of play equipment in the design phase of a new project and to orientate slides in a southerly direction. Wherever possible existing shade sources such as trees can be utilised to help provide shade over the playground. When there are no existing shade sources available then the provision of a well-designed shade structure can be considered.

Talk to your local Proludic Play and Project Consultant to find our more…

Supporting AILA’s ShadeSmart Program

Proludic Australia are proud to support AILA’s ShadeSmart Program, and invite you to register for the upcoming online free modules now on AILA’s website. ShadeSmart aims to support landscape architects and other built environment professionals to improve their awareness and understanding of quality shade for UV and heat protection.

AILA’s partnership with the Cancer Council & NSW Cancer Institute to advance the ShadeSmart Program is an important opportunity for Landscape Architects to lead quality planning and design for Shade and UV skin cancer prevention in Australia through the delivery of sustainable public spaces and healthy communities. Skin cancer will affect 2 in 3 Australians in their lifetime.

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