Is Wood Mulch Safe For Playgrounds?

More than 200,000 U.S. children are treated at the emergency room each year for playground injuries according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Installing a soft, shock-absorbent surface such as mulch beneath playground equipment reduces the risk for broken bones, concussions and other serious injuries.

Mulch is shredded or chipped tree bark often used for landscaping projects. This natural substance comes in various colors and textures and can be derived from hardwoods such as oak, chestnut, beech, birch and hickory. Softwood mulch varieties include pine and cypress.

In addition to landscaping mulch, some mulch formulations are made specifically for playground use. For example, cypress chips are durable and don’t have sticks and sharp edges that can be uncomfortable. They are specifically sized so they won’t get stuck in small shoes.

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, a ground cover of either wood chips or double-shredded wood mulch ground with a depth of at least 6 inches reduces the risk for head injuries caused by playground falls. The agency notes that when the depth ranges from 6 to 12 inches, this material is more shock absorbent than both fine gravel and fine sand.

In addition to keeping children safe, wood mulch keeps the playground attractive and appealing. Well-maintained mulch provides a uniform appearance and prevents weeds from encroaching on the area. This also reduces the need for landscaping labor and the associated cost.

In addition to cypress chips, engineered wood fiber can be used to create a soft surface that’s also wheelchair-accessible. This material has good drainage and is a popular choice for walking paths and other public areas.

Mulch Blowers of Florida serves residential and commercial customers in Hillsborough County, Manatee County and Pinellas County. Contact us today by calling 941-214-9613 to get an installation quote for high-quality blown mulch and playground chips.