​​What is a Surface Impact Test?

A Surface Impact Test measures how well a playground surface absorbs the impact of a fall.

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Using specialist HIC testing equipment, we simulate a fall from height and measure the surface’s performance. The test helps determine whether the surface provides suitable impact protection for the playground equipment above it.

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Testing measures:

• HIC — Head Injury Criterion

• G-max — peak acceleration

• CFH — Critical Fall Height

• Surface performance against relevant playground surfacing requirements

You receive a clear digital report showing pass/fail results, test locations, photos, graphs, measured data and recommendations where required.​

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Why Surface Testing Matters

A playground surface can look safe but still fail to provide adequate impact protection.

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Over time, surfaces can deteriorate due to:

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• Heavy use

• UV exposure

• Weathering

• Compaction

• Shockpad compression

• Poor drainage

• Repairs or changes to equipment

• Ageing synthetic materials

A surface that passed when installed may not continue to meet the required Critical Fall Height over time.

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Who Needs Surface Impact Testing?

Surface Impact Testing is recommended for:

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• Early Childhood Education centres

• Schools

• Councils

• Public playgrounds

• Commercial play areas

• Holiday parks and campgrounds

• Body corporates and apartment complexes

• Indoor and outdoor play providers

It is especially important where playground equipment has a fall height greater than 600 mm, or where there is forced movement such as swings, slides, carousels, rocking equipment or flying foxes.

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Surface Types We Test

Playsafe can test most playground surfacing systems, including:

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• Artificial turf with shockpad

• Wetpour rubber

• Rubber tiles

• Synthetic grass systems

• Grass retention systems

• Loosefill bark or wood fibre

• Engineered wood fibre

• Custom or non-standard surfacing systems

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Artificial Turf Playground Testing

Artificial turf is widely used in ECE and school playgrounds, but its impact performance depends heavily on the shockpad beneath it.

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As turf systems age, the surface may harden, compact or lose impact performance.

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We recommend artificial turf playground surfaces are impact tested:

• At installation

• Every 2 years

• After major repairs

• After equipment changes

• If there are concerns about hardness or wear

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What You Receive

Your Surface Impact Test report includes:

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• Site and surface details

• Equipment assessed

• Test locations

• Photos

• Drop height data

• HIC and G-max results

• Critical Fall Height confirmation

• Pass/fail outcome

• Compliance summary

• Practical recommendations if remediation is required

Why Choose Playsafe?

Playsafe is an independent playground safety and compliance specialist.

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We provide:

• Independent and impartial testing

• Certified and calibrated equipment

• RPII qualified inspectors

• Specialist knowledge of NZS 5828 and EN 1177

• Practical advice, not just test results

• Nationwide service

• In-situ and non-destructive on-site testing

• Minimal disruption to the centre during test

• Clear guidance if remediation is needed

• Compliant to NZS5828 and MOE requirements

• Clear reporting for owners, managers, boards, councils and auditors

We do not sell playground surfacing, so our advice remains independent.

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