As we all navigate the pandemic caused by the rapid spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), we have had many inquiries regarding the cleaning and disinfecting of playground equipment. While Kraftsman does not offer playground cleaning services, we have gathered research and information from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide you with the best and most accurate information possible for effectively cleaning and disinfecting your playground equipment.
When planning to clean playground equipment you will want to make sure your staff is properly protected. It is recommended by the CDC to use disposable gloves and gowns when cleaning surfaces and disposing of trash. Gloves should be removed carefully at the end of the process and hands should immediately be washed with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If gloves or gowns are to tear or rip during any of the process, the employee’s supervisor should be notified immediately. When preparing to treat your playground equipment, know that you will need to clean the equipment before it is disinfected.
- “Cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and impurities, including germs, from surfaces. Cleaning alone does not kill germs. But by removing the germs, it decreases their number and therefore any risk of spreading infection” (CDC).
- “Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection” (CDC).
Cleaning can be done using a detergent OR a mixture of soap and water on the surface of the playground equipment. Make sure to refer the manufacturer’s instructions for appropriate cleaning agents to use on your various playground equipment surfaces.
Disinfecting can be done using diluted household bleach solutions, alcohol solutions containing at least 70% alcohol, or common EPA-registered household disinfectants.
“Diluted household bleach solutions can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted. Prepare a bleach solution by mixing 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) of bleach per gallon of water” (CDC).
“As a healthy reminder, Park and Recreation professionals, as well as volunteers, also need to prioritize their own health and wellbeing during this outbreak. It’s important to practice proper hygiene, including following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Stay home from work if you are sick
- Cover your cough or sneezes with a tissue and properly dispose of the tissue
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds” (NRPA).
Kraftsman is dedicated to our Kustomers and their communities, especially in times like these. If you have any questions or need any assistance, please reach out to your local Kraftsman representative, call our office at 800-451-4869, or email us at info@kraftsmanplay.com.
For additional details and direction for cleaning disinfecting play equipment and park facilities, please reference the links provided below from the National Parks and Recreation Association and the Federal CDC websites.
- https://www.nrpa.org/blog/coronavirus-what-impact-will-covid-19-have-on-parks-and-recreation/
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/community/organizations/cleaning-disinfection.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/cleaning-disinfection.htmlCDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcommunity%2Fhome%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html
