Playgrounds and outdoor gyms will re-open from July 4 as part of the government’s relaxation of lockdown rules in England.
The Government, along with local councils, have issued advice to parents and carers planning visits to playgrounds with children this weekend.
Playground operators across England have completed valid COVID-19 risk assessments to ensure the safe re-opening of playgrounds.
But not all outdoor playgrounds will open as a number of smaller operators have not completed their risk assessments in time.
The Register of Play Inspectors International (RPII) has advised parents not to enter playgrounds with children if they remain cordoned off, to return to playgrounds at a later time if they are busy and to adhere to social distancing guidelines at all times.
Some playground operators and councils have also put up signs and instructions to be followed by playground users.
Jon Dalton, Board Member of the RPII, said: “Following on from the government announcement that playgrounds can open from the 4th July and subsequent guidance issued following this statement, if a playground owner does not have a valid COVID-19 risk assessment in place before this date they will not legally be able to open.
“We know that after many months of being closed, this will be hugely disappointing to many children, parents and carers, however, if a playground is closed, adults and children should not attempt to use or access the equipment.
The RPII is the UK examining body for play equipment and ensures the safe use of playground equipment in the UK.
