News: EN 1176:2008 comes into effect

The revised version of the standard for playground equipment and surfacing has come into force and replaces the 2003 version with immediate effect. Alongside numerous changes to the old parts of the standard, a new section has been added which is concerned exclusively with spacenets: "Part 11: Additional specific safety requirements and test procedures for spacenets."
The term 'spacenet' refers to climbing equipment made from ropes in a three-dimensional layout. This includes the classic spacenet, but also nets within a framework or designed within a space. As previously, the main constructional requirements are described in Part 1 of the standard. This includes dimensions for openings to protect heads, necks and fingers. The structural requirements are also specified in the Annex to part 1.

Part 11: A new way to test free height of fall
There are specific safety requirements for spacenets regarding the definition of free height of fall. Many years of experience with this kind of equipment have shown that an unbroken fall through such a climbing net is not possible. Until now, however, reviewable test procedures were lacking. A new test body has now been introduced for this purpose: a cylinder with a diameter of 650 mm and a height of 1800 mm. The diameter of the cylinder represents the measurements of a child with an outstretched arm. The 1800 mm indicate the maximum clearance to the next vertical rope. So that no one has to haul such a cylinder to equipment testing, however, these tests are set to be carried out and documented in a specially-designed drafting program.

The good news for all users
The new test procedure confirms the safety standards developed by Corocord in all respects. The previous specifications for height of fall and all constructional measurements can remain as they currently are.