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Buying Guide: How to Choose Swings for Playgrounds, Schools, and Recreation Areas

 

 

The swings for playgrounds They must be chosen considering the intended use, the age indicated by the manufacturer, the type of seat, materials, available space, and installation method. The Holity catalog includes single and double models, wooden, steel, or aluminum structures, flat or cage seats, nest swings, and inclusive solutions. For a public or school setting, therefore, choosing based on aesthetics is not enough: it's necessary to check the model's technical specifications, safety area, and installation requirements.


1. Wooden, steel or aluminium structure

Wood: Several Holity models use Nordic pine, some of which are pressure-treated, combined with galvanized steel components. This is a suitable choice when integrating the equipment into parks and green spaces. Treatment and maintenance must be verified for each individual product.

Metal: The range includes swings made of galvanized steel, aluminum, and mixed structures. These materials are suitable for outdoor use when specified by the manufacturer, but they must not be described as corrosion-free or maintenance-free.


2. Flat, cage, nest or inclusive seat

The seat must be chosen based on the age group and intended use stated in the technical data sheet. There is no universal age recommendation for all seats of the same shape.

  • Flat seat: It is intended for users with autonomy adequate for the configuration envisaged by the manufacturer.
  • Cradle or cradle seat: It offers greater storage space than a flat toilet seat and is also available on models intended for younger children.
  • Nest seat: It offers a larger surface area and, on some models, allows for simultaneous use by multiple children.
  • Inclusive solutions: Holity offers nest swings and specific models for disabled users; some configurations are also designed for wheelchair access.

However, a nest swing should not automatically be considered accessible to all disabilities: it is necessary to verify the characteristics, maximum number of users, and access methods of the specific product.


3. Single or double swing

Single swings generally take up less space and can be suitable for limited space. Double models allow for the simultaneous use of two seats and, in some cases, can combine a flat seat with a cage seat.

The choice must take into account not only the size of the structure, but also the minimum installation space and impact area indicated in the documentation. A two-seater Holity model, for example, has a size of 365x240 cm but a minimum space of 680x850 cm.


4. Anchoring and installation

The structure must be installed using the manufacturer's recommended fastening system. The range includes models with in-ground anchors and other specific configurations; therefore, it's incorrect to say that every swing must be secured with the same type of concrete foundation.

Before installation, check the type of soil, installation dimensions, anchoring components, clearance around the equipment, and assembly instructions. For public areas, it is important that installation and subsequent checks are managed according to the technical documentation and maintenance plan.


5. Impact area and safety surface

For swings, there is no universal distance of 2 meters that is valid for all models. UNI EN 1176-2 It contains specific requirements for swings, including drop height and impact area. Dimensions and space requirements must therefore be taken from the equipment's specifications and the playground plan.

The surface in the impact area must have characteristics suitable for the expected free fall height. EN 1177 It defines test methods for assessing the impact attenuation and critical fall height of surfaces. This does not mean that rubber flooring must always be used exclusively.


6. Standards EN 1176 and EN 71

There UNI EN 1176-1 This standard covers general requirements for permanently installed public playground equipment and surfaces; the specific requirements of EN 1176-2 also apply to swings. Numerous products in the Holity catalog declare compliance with EN 1176.

There EN 71 Instead, it concerns toy safety. It's incorrect to reduce the distinction to the formula "EN 1176 public, EN 71 private" without verifying the classification and intended use declared by the manufacturer.


7. How to choose the swing

  1. Define the users: verify the age and number of users expected by the model.
  2. Choose the session: compare flat, cage, crib, nest or inclusive solution.
  3. Measure the space: consider the safety area and not just the size of the structure.
  4. Check the materials: evaluates the installation environment and required maintenance.
  5. Check the fastening: follow the anchoring system provided by the manufacturer.
  6. Check the documentation: Check compliance, fall height, impact area and maintenance instructions.

Request a personalized quote on Holity.com

Explore the selection of swings for playgrounds on Holity and compare models by material, number of seats, type of seat, age group, size, and installation features.

For public parks, schools, accommodation facilities or playground projects you can request a personalized quote indicating available space, age group, number of users and type of seating required.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which seat should you choose for younger children?
It is advisable to choose a model with a restraining seat, such as a cage or cradle, always checking the age of use declared by the manufacturer.

Is a nest swing always inclusive?
No. Many nesting models are designed for shared use, and some are designed to be inclusive, but accessibility and how to use them must be verified on the individual product.

How much free space do you need around the swing?
It depends on the geometry, fall height, and structure configuration. Use the minimum space and impact area specified in the technical documentation instead of applying a fixed distance.

Is rubber flooring always mandatory?
No. The surface must provide the required attenuation performance for the area and fall height considered. The material and solution must be chosen based on the project and applicable requirements.

Wood or metal: which lasts longer?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Durability and maintenance depend on the material, treatment, environment, installation, and periodic checks.

How to check if a swing is suitable for a public park?
Check the manufacturer's declared purpose, the indicated conformity, the age range, the installation instructions and the safety area data.

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