GUIDELINES FOR HAZARD ABATEMENT
The abatement of hazards related to unsafe conditions in connection with playground or related park equipment is a logical progression of the inspection program, since the intent of the inspection program is to identify safety hazards in order to effect the necessary repair, refurbishment or replacement. Irrespective of whatever means hazards are identified, abatement should follow; this responsibility rests upon the shoulders of the Safety and Inspections Officer (Parks Foreman) with subordinate personnel assuming responsibility for specifically instructed tasks (assignments) toward assigned abatement duties.
The basic guidelines by which abatement should take place include the following:
- Levels of risk to the public;
- Degree of severity of the most likely accidental injuries;
- Potential for liability; and
- Requirements related to abatement (repair, refurbishment or replacement).
NON-EQUIPMENT RELATED HAZARDS
While not discussed in detail herein, not all hazards which might occur within the parks system may be associated with playground or other equipment. In some instances, certain natural conditions may represent a "hazard" to the public, and these also are important items to consider. Flooding, high water, heavy smoke, fire and many other natural conditions may all represent potential hazards to the public using park facilities. In addition, "natural areas" which are relatively undeveloped may also pose the potential for creating a limited number of hazards to the public.
While it is not possible to identify all of the potential natural conditions that might represent a hazard within the park system nevertheless, these hazards fall within the responsibilities outlined herein for the Safety and Inspections Officer (Park Foreman). Clearly, every attempt should be made to identify these natural hazards, or the potential of such natural hazards, and to attempt to abate such hazards once identified,
Clearly such responsibilities are a part of the park's overall responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of the public and are of course the basis for the various "police powers" which are granted. Under conditions where such natural hazards pose a reasonable threat to the public's health, safety and welfare, park personnel, including the Safety and Inspections Officer shall have the authority to close and/or limit use of areas within the hazard zone. Under these condition, the following shall apply:
REPORT OF NATURAL HAZARD
PARKS DEPARTMENT
Date Time
Park
Exact Location
Nature of Natural Hazard (Describe in full)
Was Natural Hazard Immediately Abated: Yes No
Was Park Area (Hazard Zone) Closed: Yes No
If yes: Area Closed:
Was area Cleared of Public prior to Closure: Yes No
Was "Area Closed" Sign Erected: Yes No
Were Barricades Erected: Yes No
Was Closed Area Subsequent Reinspected for Occupants: Yes No
Date Natural Hazard Abated: Time:
Date "Hazard Zone" Opened to Public: Time:
Describe any other problems noted at time area reopened: