The new European Standard has clarified safety issues and test methods for outdoor adult fitness equipment in the market. It has also established a clear set of guidelines to ensure specifiers, purchasers and manufacturers have an understanding of positive recommendations towards outdoor facilities. To further improve safety, provide ease of use and ensure fitness products pass inspections, we have developed additional features to complement the new EN 16630 standard through the introduction of effective labelling with QR codes and internal stoppers.

The EN 16630 standard requires labelling on all equipment with information regarding exercise instructions, main equipment functions and safety information. Our product range not only conforms to the new standard but also goes beyond by featuring QR codes for equipment use for youths and adults with a height greater than 1.4m. The QR codes also provide assurance about medical safety before use and QR code web links to brand new user training videos.

We have also taken additional steps to improve safety by installing internal stoppers. Although external stoppers on fitness equipment comply with EN16630, introducing internal stoppers has reduced the danger of entrapment of hands and feet. The new internal stopper systems now apply to the Air Skier, Air Walker and Lat Pull & Push equipment, to provide enhanced safety and improve usability of the equipment.

UK Sales Director Mark Grace says: “Prior to the introduction of the new European Safety Standard, there was a great deal of confusion in the marketplace about which standard was applicable to outdoor fitness equipment. EN 16630 has clarified the situation and all other conflicting standards have been withdrawn."

“It was a natural step for HAGS SMP to exceed the basic requirements following the introduction of the new standard. We have worked with our customers to respond to their outdoor fitness equipment needs so they can make clearer and more informed purchasing decisions. HAGS SMP’s range of outdoor fitness equipment is not only extensive and offers market leading guarantees, it also conforms to and is certified to EN 16630.” 

Following the introduction of EN 16630, the Register of Playground Inspectors International (RPII) now uses the EN 16630 when carrying out annual and post installation inspections.

Due to the age structure of the population of Rathnew, it was vital to provide a community space with something for children of all ages as well as young adults and parents to enjoy.

It was decided to keep the teenage and young adults’ areas to one end of the site and to locate the under 12 years Playground at the opposite end.  This is to reduce the risks associated with very young children and wheeled sports or Teen play.

The kickabout area provides an opportunity for Ball play, along with the social benefits that come with such games, whilst the Wheeled Sports area provides a suitable and specified place for teens to carry out these popular sports. 

The Parkour element is a relatively new concept in Ireland and allows teenagers to socialise and engage in non competitive play using obstacles that resemble existing urban architecture and existing natural shapes in a way that natural and gradual progression is encouraged whilst maintaining a safe and controlled environment for fitness, balance, co-ordination, creativity.  A teen shelter will allow rest and a great spot for spectators. 

All equipment included in the Playground carries a thirty year guarantee.  The range of equipment is varied and includes units that are suitable for all ability and mobility levels, encouraging universal play throughout the park.

Where possible the site will remain in grass and sweeping pathways will enable all users to navigate the entire park with ease. Planting and landscaping shall be used throughout the area to enhance the overall park setting.  

Stay tuned to hear more about our progress on site!