What exactly does IPEMA-certified mean?
IPEMA certifies play equipment and surfacing materials to CSA (Canadian Standards Association) and ASTM International standards. IPEMA-certified playground equipment means that the manufacturer's testing facility, procedures and results have been validated by a third-party accredited laboratory to the applicable North American Standards CSA Z614 and ASTM F1487.

IPEMA-certified playground surfacing means that surfacing material has been tested by a third-party accredited laboratory per ASTM F1292 to establish the HIC and Gmax for the specific fall height and to other relevant surfacing-related ASTM standards (F2075 and F3012).

What type of surfacing products are IPEMA-certified?

 
All manufactured surfacing products including but not limited to Engineered Wood Fiber, Loose-Fill Rubber, Poured In Place Rubber, Rubber Tiles, Turf and "hybrid" surfacing products can be part of the IPEMA certification program. These test results help the designer, owner and operator select appropriate surfacing products to meet or exceed the playground equipment fall heights.

Where can I find IPEMA-certified products

Manufacturers producing IPEMA-certified products are listed on IPEMA's website at www.ipema.org. There, you can find information about the certification programs, certified products and even generate certificates for playground equipment. Certificates for surfacing products can be obtained only from the manufacturer.

How does the IPEMA certification program maintain integrity?

IPEMA selects a third-party accredited laboratory to perform the appropriate testing of certified products and that laboratory is required to be an active participant of the applicable standards development process. Additionally, its members and administrator actively participate in the standards development process to remain current and relevant. IPEMA certification participants must retest 20 percent of their products every year to assure that product test results are not older than five years. IPEMA regularly reviews and revises its certification program requirements to ensure alignment with the ASTM standards to which it certifies products. This is done through a committee of subject matter experts who provide guidance and feedback to the volunteer Board of Directors regarding recommended changes to the program. The organization also administers a complaint process, to ensure there is a protocol for those who purchase certified products and seek proof that the product purchased is in compliance with the CSA/ASTM standard(s). IPEMA is continually looking at ways to improve its certification program to ensure the highest integrity and credibility possible.

How does IPEMA certification reduce risk on the part of the Owner/Operator?

Selecting and installing IPEMA certified play equipment and surfacing provides third-party validation that the products meet or exceed the applicable safety standards. Certification may help reduce insurance premiums and can be part of the defense in the event of a lawsuit. Of course, ongoing and proper maintenance of equipment and surfacing (in accordance with a manufacturer's guidance) is an important aspect of safety and owners/operators are always encouraged to properly maintain the IPEMA-certified products they purchase.

To find out more about IPEMA, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/commercial-landscape-companies/international-play-equipment-manufacturers-association

As seen in LASN magazine, September 2019.

As seen in LASN magazine, February 2020.