With COVID-19 on everyone’s mind, addressing the cleaning of playgrounds and recreation areas is very important. The Centers for Disease Control website is the best location to go for current information and best practices. The CDC publishes Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection Recommendations that provide guidelines on cleaning surfaces, and we recommend that you follow these for cleaning and disinfecting all playground surfaces.
All surfaces should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. For disinfection, the CDC states that diluted household bleach solutions (see proper dilution rates below), alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol, and most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective. They also state that unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses, when properly diluted. After cleaning and disinfecting, make sure to rinse the surfaces and allow them to completely dry before allowing them to be used.
Summary of proper steps to take with surfaces on Burke play equipment:
- Clean
- Disinfect
- Rinse and dry
Warnings:
- Wear personal protective equipment while cleaning and disinfecting.
- Check to ensure the bleach and disinfectant products are not past their expiration dates.
- Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. This is extremely dangerous and produces toxic vapors.
Proper dilution for bleach solution:
- 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water or
- 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
We have tested several different types of cleaners and disinfectants on the various playground surfaces, such as PVC, powder coated steel and aluminum, plastic, rope and rubber and we do not anticipate any issues with cleaners causing harm to Burke playground equipment. Your warranty will remain in effect for its duration if you follow the CDC’s guidelines for cleaning surfaces. We believe that playgrounds can continue to be used in a safe manner that allows people to enjoy the mental and physical health benefits these spaces provide. Please follow the CDC’s guidance on social distance and gatherings and enjoy some play time outside!