How Safe is Your Child’s Playground? Recycled Tire Cushioning Poses Health Concerns

Jennifer Lance — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 08:32:21 +0000

It is back to school time, and whether you child plays at a park or a school, you have probably been on a playground that uses recycled tires for cushioning. In the past, I have questioned the safety of children playing with old tires; however, I remember enjoy tire swings immensely as a child. Now, the Green Guide has reported on the safety of recycled tire cushioning found on many playgrounds.

A few years ago, we installed new playground equipment at our school. As the teacher in charge of the project, I was encouraged by parents to explore the option of recycled tires for cushioning, which comes in either a mulch or mat. At first, I thought this was a good idea as it involved recycling and really does provide a great cushioning, but in the end we chose pea gravel for cost, environmental, and safety concerns.

Green Options » playground cushioning

How Safe is Your Child’s Playground? Recycled Tire Cushioning Poses Health Concerns