August 2011 Playground Photo of the Month This month's Playground Photo of the Month recipient is Sports & Golf Solutions,.
Letter From The Chair Dear Members, They say that that “Experience” as a general concept comprises knowledge or skill of an observation of some thing or some event gained through personal involvement in with or exposure to that thing or event. This level of knowledge or skill supports some level of intelligence that rewards or benefits one in future similar or like circumstances. With that said let’s look at the definition of “Wisdom”. “Wisdom:” is the ability or result of an ability to think and act utilizing knowledge, experience, understanding, common sense, and insight. It is also considered accumulated knowledge, erudition, or enlightenment. Thus – we could say that “Wisdom” constitutes learning from one’s past whether those experiences consist of successes or failures. While this can be considered a type of “Wisdom”; we all should realize that “Wisdom” - TRUE “Wisdom” comes from learning from the experiences of others without having to actually experience the success or failure.
Isham Park, Bronx, New York. Landscapes Structures (2) Units and Tiles in ground mount through asphalt. New York Parks Department. Sports & Golf Solutions is a Qualified Playground Contractor! If you are interested in submitting your playground for consideration please email us at npca@playgroundcontractors.org. If your photo is selected for the any month in 2011, we will have it published and your will receive recognition for your work and a gift from us, for your participation. Digital Specifications: High Resolution PDF files are preferred. Delivery: Files will be accepted via email UNLESS they are over 6 MB. Formats: Grayscale / CMYK color images must be TIFF, .PDF, or .EPS format. 400 dpi or higher.
Post Office Box 2364 Salt Lake City, Utah 84110-2364 P: 888-908-9519 Fax: 801-355-2788 E-mail: npca@playgroundcontractors.org www.playground-contractors.org
I said that to say this: NEW HIRE CHECKLIST: My gift to you this month is a little insight of what you need to do before you hire that New Employee or Sub-Contractor! Be Sure You Have the Following Documented and On-File: • Employee’s Resume • Resume Supplement • Background Check • References Once the above is satisfactorily reviewed we are ready to move to the interview stage: • Be Prepared • Set The Tone • Stick to Your Script • Know What You Are Looking for • Listen To Your Instincts • Manage Your Time • Take Notes – Write It Down • Don’t Forget: - You Are being Interviewed Too After the Interview and Once You Decide To Hire: • I-9 Eligibility Form • Social Security Card – Driver’s License – Approved ID Form • Federal – State W’4’s • Job Offer • Employee Welcome Package The above is important for many reasons but I feel the most important reason is for Workers Comp and protecting your Company’s Assets. I won’t go into specific details but if you have your ducks in a row, you have a much better chance of defending your position in the event there is a problem with an Employee Injury. Also see the New Hire Checklist on the NPCAI Website under Useful Documents. With that said, let’s discuss the Playground Contractors Role with the NPCAI as are the final link in a successful Playground Installation.
August 2011
Letter From The Chair (con’t)
NPCAI Board of Trustees
The NPCAI Mission is: To professionally construct today's pre-manufactured playground equipment. THE NPCAI IS: A worldwide partnership formed to contribute to the advancement of the playground building industry by promoting playground installation as a legitimate contracting profession within the playground industry.
CHAIR 2010‐ 2012 Playground Construction School Chair & Membership Committee Chair Roger Davis Playground Safety Services. Inc. Po Box 2729 Shelby, NC 28152 P: 704‐487‐7774 F: 704‐480‐7775 E‐mail: rdcpsi@carolina.rr.com TRUSTEE – Chair Elect 2012‐2014 Public Relations Committee Chair James Charles Snider. Snider & Associates, Inc. 10139 Royalton Road Ste # H North Royalton, OH 44133 P: 440‐877‐9151 F: 440‐877‐9159 C: 440‐343‐6420 E‐mail: jcsnider@cvsnider.com TRUSTEE – Past Chair 2008-2010 Karen Spears, CPSI Kids‐Play, Inc. 700 Long Horn Pass NW Ste #B PO Box 1008 Hartselle, AL 35640 P: 888‐895‐5437 x 219 F: 256‐751‐9191 E‐mail:kspears@hiwaay.net
THE NPCAI LENDS SUPPORT: To all playground safety programs, guidelines, and standards that promote playground safety by assisting the public in identifying the need for a professional playground installation. THE NPCAI SEEKS: Active participation in and contributions from its membership and corporate sponsors for the development and growth of individual members, their contracting businesses, and the playground construction profession worldwide. THE NPCAI OFFERS: MEMBERS A VOICE in the playground industry through leadership opportunity and networking to affect industry changes to address developing needs. MEMBERS ANSWERS to everyday installation questions and immediate access to information regarding certification, licensing and industry standards. Tool Box Tips: Insurance Tips – The 5 P’s: Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance:
• • • • •
Become a NPCAI Qualified Contractor and Use the NPCAI Qualified Contractor Status as A Tool Here at the NPCAI, we have the foundation in place for you to succeed! Now it’s up to you to: Best Playground Contractor You Can Be! Become a NPCAI Qualified Contractor and Continue to Support The NPCAI!
Roger Davis – CPSI – NPCAI Chair. rdcpsi@carolina.rr.com Remember:
TREASURER 2008‐2010 Nominations Committee Chair Jeff Barber, CPSI Playground Specialist, Inc. 17352 N. Seton Avenue Emmitsburg, MD 21727 Office: 301‐447‐1890 P: 800‐385‐0075 C: 301‐748‐3056 F: 301‐447‐3556 E‐mail: jeff@playspec.com
The NPCAI Continues to Offer the Playground Construction School Upcoming Events:
• • • •
November 1-4, 2011 NRPA Congress & Expo - Atlanta, GA November 2, 2011 NPCAI Social Event, Atlanta, GA November 30 - Dec 2 2011 Tampa, FL Playground Construction School March 21-23, 2012 Dallas, TX Playground Construction School
August 2011
Feature
NPCAI Board of Trustees
How to Get a Playground Built in Your Neighborhood
SECRETARY 2009‐2010 Brad Rhoads, CPSI Playmatta 1135 West 9th St. Upland, CA 91786 P: 888‐346‐2882 F: 877‐949‐2585 C: 909‐519‐0574 E‐mail: brad.rhoads@mattaproducts.com TRUSTEE Tom Norquist GameTime 150 PlayCore Drive Fort Payne, AL 35968 P: 256‐845‐5610 F: 256‐845‐9361
Getting a new playground for your neighborhood can increase property values, but the effort requires time, money, and great organizational skills. Love your home but wish the neighborhood offered more for kids? You can spearhead efforts to build a new playground that children will love and homebuyers will desire. “We’ve seen some tremendous dedication in fundraising, community partnerships, and use of available resources where small groups have done wonderful things,” says Anne-Marie Spencer, marketing director for GameTime, a playground equipment manufacturer. “Basically, if a community wants a playground, they can build one.” A new play space will benefit adults as well as kids because amenities contribute to property values. In South Florida, extensive recreational amenities boost home prices in master-planned communities by 10% to 20%. In Western North Carolina, where spectacular parks and preserves offer abundant natural recreational opportunities, outdoor amenities would still add 2.5% to 5% to neighborhood home values, says Gordon Lucks, a real estate appraiser in Asheville, N.C.
thomasnorquist@me.com
TRUSTEE Randy Atchison GPI Outdoors Designs, Inc. 32140 Township Rd. 243A Calgary, AB Canada T3Z 2M7 P: 403‐242‐8740 C: 403‐874‐7745 F: 403‐242‐8796 E‐mail:randygpi@telus.net TRUSTEE Research & Development Committee Chair Marylou Iverson Iverson & Assoc. P.O. Box 1387 Kingston, WA 98346 P: 360‐297‐8887 C: 360‐908‐3479 F: 360‐297‐8220 E‐mail: ml.iverson@gmail.com TRUSTEE Dr. Joe Deutsch, CPSI Imagination Play, Inc. PO Box 452 Moorhead, MN 56561‐0452 P: 888‐788‐9504 F: 888‐788‐9546 C: 701‐799‐4923 E‐mail: joe@imaginationplay.com
Don’t expect that kind of up tick in value from a playground, though, because only families with small children will use and therefore value a playground. By comparison, adult recreational amenities, such as lakes or golf courses, will give nearby property values the biggest boost, he adds. Playground Drawbacks - Before you leap into the sandbox, consider the drawbacks. If you live in a community with a homeowners association, related expenses for insurance and maintenance can increase your association fees. Playground equipment becomes outdated quickly. You may spend a year getting a new climbing structure, only to have it deemed unsafe two years later. Playgrounds and ball fields increase noise and traffic on nearby streets. Even small projects take time. A single swing set can take a year of fundraising, research, and planning. A larger playground takes longer. Building a playground takes work. Is it worth the effort to get one built in your neighborhood or should you just continue driving to the next town whenever your kids want to swing? Take a look at the steps involved to decide. Raise Interest First - You’re convinced your neighborhood needs a recreational upgrade. Do your neighbors agree? Organize a meeting to find out. If there’s enough support, create a Playground Project Team to help design the playground, raise money, chose the location, and handle building permits, insurance, and maintenance. Set A Playground Budget - Playground costs range from $1,500 for a two-person, commercial-grade swing set to tens of thousands of dollars for multiple play areas. A phased plan allows your group to add pieces as you raise more money. Design Your Dream Play Space - Most major playground manufacturers offer layout and design help. The National Recreation and Park Association website lists manufacturers and has equipment photos. Playground Fundraising - “The best possible way to raise money for small projects like playgrounds is private donations,” says Jen Laird-White, a TV producer-turned-stay-at-home-mom/ community organizer in Nyack, N.Y. “Throw a party and ask everybody to come.” Grants from contractors and equipment companies can be another source of funds. Choose Your Location - Playgrounds built on city-owned property are usually managed by the parks and recreation department. If you want a playground built on public land, contact the mayor or the chief administrator to find out who oversees playgrounds. If you live in a community with a homeowners association, its open space could be a good playground site. Take your proposal to the board early in the process and expect the board to conduct its own research and assessment. To build on school property, with the community having use after hours, contact the school board.
August 2011
Feature
NPCAI Board of Trustees
How to Get a Playground Built in Your Neighborhood (con’t)
TRUSTEE Tom Peeples Peeples Playground Safety Consulting, LLC. Po Box 745657 Arvada, CO 80006 ‐5657 P: 720‐351‐7309 F: 303‐421‐6675 E‐mail: playgroundsafety@live.com
If you want to build on a private lot, you’ll need to convince the landowner to sell to your group, or better yet, donate the property to the town so the town takes over responsibility and liability for the playground.
TRUSTEE Matthew F. Walsh, Vice‐President Precision Playgrounds, Inc. 5120 Damascus Road N. Jacksonville, FL 32207 P: 904‐636‐5106 F: 904‐636‐5177 C: 904‐607‐0445 E‐mail: matt@precisionplaygrounds.com
Are Playgrounds Worthwhile? - Working to bring a new recreational amenity can add pleasure to your community and a feeling of participation and accomplishment to you. But it’s also a demanding job. “It’s just like being a TV producer,” says Laird-White. “You have to have everything organized, all the little tiny pieces. Sometimes the least of the problems is getting the money.”
NPCAI Administration
NPCAI Office Sylvia Salazar, Executive Director. PO Box 2364 Salt Lake City, UT 84110‐ 2364 USA
P: 1‐888‐908‐9519 F: 801‐355‐2788 npca@playground‐contractors.org www.playground‐contractors.org sylvias@playground‐contractors.org
Some homeowners partner with a non-profit or public-private partnership, such as a downtown revitalization organization, that already has a space and a relationship with the governing authorities. Another option is to petition a local developer to include a new playground in a planned commercial space, such as an outdoor mall area. In this case, the developer would handle liability, maintenance, and any permits required.
Contributed by: Wendy Paris, N.Y.
Special Fundraiser Chad Dorwart has enjoyed an extended career as a certified playground installer but today, he battles Cancer of the endocrine glands, liver; and for almost (2) years now and has not been able to work to support his family, naturally he is in trouble financially because of a Cancer that he now courageously fights on a daily basis. The NPCAI comes to the support of the Dorwart family during their critical time of need by asking for donations from our members in the Playground industry, that you may find it in your hearts during these tough economic times to donate a small financial offering, money you can generously donate through the organization to the Dorwart family in order to help them offset the enormous cost of battling his Cancer, a disease that scientists to this day; have yet to find a cure. Please take a moment to review this Facebook link, a posting the Dorwart family has created keeping us up to date of Chad's progress and condition. Personal efforts to raise money have nowhere near been adequate enough to afford the basic necessities needed for this family. http://www.facebook.com/NHLsupport?ref=ts Throughout his career Chad has always been hard working, a dedicated loyal installer in the playground industry, and today; he can really use a boost from his NPCAI colleagues so that his family can financially make their way through this incredibly difficult challenge in their lives. We especially look forward to our Manufacture Members, that they show us the way donation wise for the Dorwart family, and that they will establish a standard of which the NPCAI may pride itself in the future with support of this worthy cause. Donations are being accepted at: Ottawa Savings Bank 925 LaSalle Street Ottawa, IL. 61350 c/o Kirsten Dorwart (Fundraiser for Chad) Thank you. Of support ☺ David J. Antonacci Co-Chairman NPCAI, Retired
August 2011
Feature
CPSI Course Calendar
The Science Of Safety In Aquatic Play Features The tremendous popularity of parks with unique aquatic play features has changed the landscape of recreational waters. More families than ever are attracted to these venues as a way to spend time together. Water parks offer unique challenges for operators.
September 13-15, 2011 Cincinnati, OH 614-895-2222 September 14-16, 2011 Norfolk, VA 804-730-9447 September 19-21, 2011 Covington, GA 770-760-1403 September 20-22, 2011 Corbin, KY 502-626-9834 October 3-5, 2011 Santa Monica, CA 916-665-2777 October 4-6, 2011 San Antonio, TX 512-267-5550 October 17-19, 2011 Morristown, NJ 732-568-1270 October 31-November 2, 2011 Green Bay, WI 414-423-1210 November 8-9, 2011 North Kansas City, MO 573-636-3828 November 9-11, 2011 Salt Lake City, UT 801-491-9867 November 9-11, 2011 Bellevue, WA 360-459-9396 November 30 - December 2, 2011 Clearwater, FL 850-878-3221
Today, these features include everything from water slides, lazy rivers and activity pools to mushroom sprays, splash pads and wave pools. These innovative recreational features decrease the fear of swimming for young bathers–the shallow water, bubbling actions and sprays offer comfort and reassurance, and create fun and fond memories for the entire family. For aquatic directors, these exciting play features can present new challenges and risk factors, including additional water-quality concerns. Water Quality - The risk of contamination increases dramatically at these facilities because there is a much higher bather load and instance of fecal contamination. Thus, it is critical for operators to have a complete understanding of the complexities surrounding recreational water illness (RWI). Because of the sheer size of the facilities, and the high user rate, there is a constant need for adequate disinfection, which must be continually monitored; therefore, local and state health regulators are updating their guidelines to call attention to higher contamination probabilities. One important addition to the health codes is the implementation of supplemental sanitation. The recommended level for disinfectants–such as free available chlorine–is 2.0 to 4.0 parts per million. With the higher bather Liberty Park, Salt Lake City, Utah loads, free chlorine combines rapidly; therefore, oxidation must take place at a faster rate. For this reason, a supplemental sanitizer is now recommended. Ozone and Ultraviolet (UV) systems have gained acceptance as an additional means of eliminating chloramines and fighting RWIs. Controllers and automatic chemical-feed systems, in conjunction with Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP) metering, have proven to be a safeguard in fighting contamination. ORP probes are installed on the return side of the filtration system to measure chlorine activity; expressed in millivolts, the ORP probes measure the ratio of oxidation/reduction. ORP is influenced by the pH reading. Operators must take precautions to ensure that the probes are calibrated and cleaned during routine maintenance. It is also advisable to take manual readings throughout the day to effectively monitor free available chlorine and pH. Most aquatic play features are installed in shallow water or even in zero-depth entry pools. Shallow water and splashing typically cause an increased demand for replacement water. It is important for operators to test the local water supply, as make-up water directly influences the sanitization and water-balance parameters. Water chemistry for aquatic play features also requires testing the five factors of water balance: • pH • Alkalinity • Calcium hardness • Temperature • Total dissolved solids.
August 2011 The Playground Contractors Role with the NPCAI!
Feature The Science Of Safety In Aquatic Play Features (Con’t) When these factors are calculated under the saturation index parameters of -.03 to +.03 on the Langelier Saturation Index Scale, the disinfection process is optimized. These balancing factors are influenced by bather waste, disinfection, source water, airborne debris, aeration and evaporation.
The Playground Contractors Role with the NPCAI As we come to the final link in the chain in becoming a True Playground Contractor. The NPCAI Mission is: To professionally construct today's pre-manufactured playground equipment.
THE NPCAI IS: A worldwide partnership formed to contribute to the advancement of the playground building industry by promoting playground installation as a legitimate contracting profession within the playground industry. THE NPCAI LENDS SUPPORT: To all playground safety programs, guidelines, and standards that promote playground safety by assisting the public in identifying the need for a professional playground installation.
THE NPCAI SEEKS: Active participation in and contributions from its membership and corporate sponsors for the development and growth of individual members, their contracting businesses, and the playground construction profession worldwide.
A low saturation index can cause corrosion of the pool surfaces, eye burn, and equipment damage. If the saturation index is high, scale forms on the pool surfaces and within the circulation piping. It is vital that pool operators understand the parameters of water balance to reduce the need for premature interior resurfacing and equipment replacement. Risk Factors - Ensuring bather safety is always a priority at aquatic venues, and particularly where play features are present. A regular examination of the main drains is mandatory. The Virginia Graeme Baker Act, signed into law in December 2007, mandates that all main drains and other suction ports be inspected and retrofitted to meet the new guidelines enforced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. (Reference: ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007 or successor standard.) Slips and falls around and in shallow water may be reduced by careful inspection of all decking around the feature areas to eliminate puddles. Depth markings on the deck and within the pools must be installed, and risk-warning signage must be posted. When retrofitting an existing venue with new feature designs, make sure that the lifeguards’ lines of sight are carefully considered. It is vital that children playing in and around these activity pools are able to be seen at all times. It is also recommended that children who cannot swim wear life jackets and remain under parental supervision. Training - Water-feature training should be required for all operators and staff. This is especially needed at those amenities that include rides and slides. An attendant who monitors the dispatching of patrons onto the rafts, slides and rides should always be on duty. An established set of rules for entry should be posted, learned, and enforced by all operators. Maintenance staff must also be thoroughly trained on all the structures, in addition to knowing water-quality requirements. Water slides need regular maintenance, and some need to be waxed on a scheduled basis to protect the surfaces. Pumps and motors require examination to be sure the circulation is flowing at the right flow rate in order to optimize performance of the slides and rides. Keeping regular inspection lists and repair logs can help minimize liability. Liability - A risk-management and emergency-response action plan should be put into place for each of these amenity parks to guide staff in identifying, analyzing, and taking steps to reduce exposure to accidents. The hiring and training of operators includes in-service sessions related to chemical hazards, chemical treatments, water-quality management, equipment repair and maintenance, as well as accident-related injuries. Hint: Did you know by being a NPCAI member, you can secure Liability at a discounted rate? The training should be ongoing and conducted on a regular, scheduled basis to ensure the education includes up-to-date technologies and recent changes in health codes.
THE NPCAI OFFERS: MEMBERS A VOICE in the playground industry through leadership opportunity and networking to affect industry changes to address developing needs.
MEMBERS ANSWERS to everyday installation questions and immediate access to information regarding certification, licensing and industry standards.
Checklist for Aquatic Play-Feature Operators • Keep a maintenance-equipment file and chemical log on each water feature • Manually test each water feature, and calibrate with automatic controls • Determine water balance by using the Langelier Saturation Index • Maintain a file on all chemical treatments (MSDS sheets) • Develop a chemical safety-handling program • Implement an emergency-response action plan. There is much intrinsic value to adding aquatic play features at pool facilities. Interactive water invites the community to experience an entirely new attraction–a love for water fun. Investments in water play features can add to the bottom line; however, knowing how to manage the risks is paramount to providing a safe, fun and profitable facility. Proactively engaging in education and training to protect the bathers should be a lifetime activity for aquatic operators. Source: Connie Sue Centrella is a professor and Program Director for the online Aquatic Engineering Program at Keiser University eCampus
August 2011
Feature Site Amenities - What We All Need To Know Hello to All Our NPCAI Members, From the NPCAI Playground Construction School: Playground Parts Receiving and Care
1.
PLAYGROUND PARTS: RECEIVING AND CARE When the Parts Leave the Manufacturer – the ball is essentially in your court
2.
RECEIVING AND STORAGE Once the part is damaged, it is no longer new Packaging is expensive – and necessary – leave it on until it NEEDS to come off Whoever touches the shipment is responsible for it A customer will notice if the shipment is damaged Use two or more people for heavy awkward items Do Not Drop the Equipment The time to organize parts is while they are being unloaded If it will not be installed yet, store it securely Protect identifying labels
3.
ACCOUNTABILITY Count the Pieces Twice – Check the BOL Report Damaged Items Immediately – Note it on the BOL Boxes should still be sealed when received Check boxes in poor condition If you sign for it, you are responsible for it
4.
PARTS LISTS Report damaged or mis-manufactured parts immediately Count posts and other easily identified parts When reporting problems know the following Part Numbers Part Numbers Take pictures Careful Attention in the beginning helps efficiency Errors will occur- be prepared to deal with them
5.
PROTECTION OF PARTS Most metal parts are powder coated Be careful with the finish – excessive damage can shorten the life. Use blankets, tarps, or cardboard to cover the ground Leave parts wrapped until needed Plastic parts are expensive If you damage it – it will probably need to be replaced Plastic parts take time to manufacture Be very careful using hammers, pry-bars, or knives to unpack the equipment
6.
CLEAN-UP
NPCAI members are encouraged to participate in the National Recreation and Parks Association Congress & Exposition This year’s event will be
November 1-4, 2011 Atlanta, Georgia
NPCAI Calendar of Events
November 1-4, 2011 NRPA Congress & Exposition Atlanta, GA November 2, 2011 UPDATED NPCAI Social Event, Atlanta, GA Now Seeking Sponsors! November 30– December 2, 2011 Tampa, FL Playground Construction School. March 21-23, 2012 Dallas, TX Playground Construction School
Keep the unpacking materials cleaned up as you go. Break cardboard boxes down flat and stack them together. Pull nails or bend nails on opened crates or pallets. Use a big box or bag for all small garbage. A clean site provides a safe work area. It makes one feel proud of the work area and it impresses the owners and/or sales representatives.
August 2011
Feature Site Amenities - What We All Need To Know (con’t)
Why Sponsor the NPCAI Social? With money very tight this year we wanted to provide the benefits to you of social sponsorship! NPCAI has created sponsorship packages to meet almost all budget sizes.
When the installer takes shipment of playground parts and components, we are responsible for ensuring all pieces have arrived in the proper condition, and that all pieces have indeed arrived. Being thoroughly accountable for the entire playground installation begins with having procedures in place to handle all parts completely; thereby ensuring accuracy, organization, and safety. As Always,
These premium packages are loaded with additional value-added exposure that helps to make your sponsorship investment even more visible. NPCAI invites you to consider sponsorship of an NPCAI Social. event as an essential component of your 2011 marketing plans.
Be The Best Playground Contractor You Can Be!
Consider these five reasons of how sponsorship can help to achieve your marketing goals: 1. Enhance company image 2. Heighten visibility 3. Differentiating from competitors 4. Helping with good "Corporate Citizen" role 5. Increase booth traffic
Our Current 2011 NPCAI Social Sponsors:
Roger Davis – CPSI President – Playground Safety Services, Inc. www.playgroundsafetyservices.com rdcpsi@carolina.rr.com Thanks To All Our Current and Renewing Members! Become a NPCAI Qualified Contractor and Continue to Support The NPCAI! Tool Box Tips:
• • • •
Performance Baselines: Identify, Establish and Plan The Baseline Execute and Document The Execution Review and Measure the Success of the Baseline Plan
Strive for Continuous Improvement and Effectiveness and Margins Will Go Up
www.pilotrock.com
Remember: The NPCAI Continues to Offer the Playground Construction School
Upcoming Events: November 1-4, 2011 NRPA Congress & Expo - Atlanta, GA November 2, 2011 NPCAI Social Event, Atlanta, GA November 30 - Dec 2 2011 Tampa, FL Playground Construction School March 21-23, 2012 Dallas, TX Playground Construction School
www.customplaygroundsinc.com
August 2011
A Message from the Executive Director Our Role as Professional
Benefits Available to Members! Making us
As professional builders in the playground industry we have made it a priority to address important construction issues in the playground process as listed below. NPCAI Priorities • FIRST - We recognize the need to provide the safest possible environment for play in an effort to limit life threatening or disabling incidents.
The NPCAI offers many benefits to its members. Such benefits include
• NPCAI embossed membership certificate.
• NPCAI membership card • A monthly E-zine • Free Listing on the Online
•
SECOND - We recognize the VALUE of play and are committed to making playgrounds a place of challenge, fun, and laughter
•
THIRD - We love to build, Strive to use proper building techniques, Take pride in our work, and Make jobsite safety priority one.
Meeting the Challenge • DESIGN CONCEPTS are more creative while being held to stricter safety standards then ever before.
•
PURCHASING a playground has never been easier. Today’s playground professionals are better trained professional. In this competitive environment they have to be. This makes the industry stronger.
•
INSTALLATION of playground equipment by qualified professionals has never been more important than today
Directory
• • • • • • •
Free Website Listing RFP Listing Playground Wiki Free Access to over 200 forms. Aflac Discount Program Imprint Plus Name Tags General Liability Insurance Program
The KORE Values & Duties • Playground builders should be Knowledgeable
• • •
Playground builders should be Organized Playground builders should be Responsible Playground builders should be Experienced
It is the mission of the NPCAI for all playground professionals to reflect these KORE values.
• Free copy of the Playground Magazine.
• Free Classifieds • Your company information is given out to any interested individual seeking your services
• $100 savings on the Playground Construction School.
• Errors & Omissions Insurance Coverage
• Annual NPCAI Social Event • Sponsorship Opportunities • Qualified Contractor Credentials. Most Important NPCAI will support you every step of the way.
Playground Builders Should Be • Licensed
• •
Insured Certified
Licensing • Contracting Laws are designed to prevent unqualified people from building.
• •
Designed to protect the publics health, safety and welfare. Failure to obey state licensing laws is illegal and unethical.
Playground Contracting Laws • There are 28 states requiring licensing requirements
•
All contractors should obey local ordinances and regulations
Insured • General Liability – coverage for a child that may be injured due to negligence by the playground builder or one of his employees
• •
Workers Compensation – protects your employees should they become injured on the job
•
Vehicle – protects owner, employees and the public
Property Insurance – protects playground builders tools and machinery, office equipment, buildings owned or rented
August 2011
Feature Our Role as Professionals (con’t)
Join us on these social networks Certification • NPCAI
• •
CPSI MANUFACTURERS
NPCAI Qualified Contractor • There are now over 100 Qualified Playground Contractors In the United States Owner Responsibilities • Safety
• • • • • •
Understand CPSC Risk Management Teach children their role Playground signage Age appropriate Supervision required
We hope that an overview of our role as Professional Playground Installers, provided an in depth site to our role. Once again we are proud to serve our members! Thank you.
New & Renewed Members! • ABCreative, Inc. • Nakai Surfacing, Inc. • Playworx Playsets, LLC. • Central Coast Playgrounds • Adventure Playground Systems, Inc.
• Leisure Concepts, LLC. • Mid-Atlantic Products, Inc. • Southern Playgrounds, Inc. • R.J. Thomas, Mfg. Company, Inc. • Sports & Golf Solutions • Ascension Insurance Agency, Inc. • G & C Contracting, LLC.
Sylvia Salazar NPCAI Executive Director npca@playground-contractors.org 1-888-908-9519
NEW PRODUCTS
BCI Burke Alpine Climber! We’re Taking Things up a Notch! Children will experience a sense of accomplishment when they climb to the top of Burke’s all NEW Alpine Climber. With multiple climbing experiences using the rock climber handholds and the net wall, kids will enjoy tons of awesome play on this new freestanding climber. Start designing with this innovative and exclusive NEW Alpine Climber from Burke!
August 2011
News from Playground Manufacturers
Random Funny Playground Picture WARNING: Playgrounds not Cemetery!
This month's Random Funny Playground Picture recipient is failblog.com If you are interested in submitting your playground for consideration please e-mail us at npca@playground -contractors.org. If your photo is selected for the any month in 2011, we will have it published and your will receive recognition for your work and a gift from us, for your participation. Digital Specifications: High Resolution PDF files are preferred. Delivery: Files will be accepted via email UNLESS they are over 6 MB. Formats: Grayscale / CMYK color images must be TIFF, .PDF, or .EPS format. 400 dpi or higher.
ONLY A CLICK AWAY!
www.playground-contractors.org
Strongsville, Ohio wins BCI Burke Voltage Playground Contest A new playground will be installed later this year in conjunction with grand prize contest announcement by BCI Burke recently. The City of Strongsville, OH, was the lucky winner of the contest held by the playground manufacturer, with corporate headquarters in Fond du Lac, WI. “I was amazed when I received the call that we won the playground. All of our parks have playgrounds, except this one, so the timing to receive this is perfect,” said Bryan Bogre, Strongsville Director of Parks, Recreation and Senior Services. Thousands of entries registered for the contest announced at the start of 2011, with only one honored person getting the exciting winning call. The playground is from Burke’s new Voltage™ line, which combines the durability and flexibility of a 3 ½” O.D. post system with the advanced design of both the exclusive KoreKonnect® direct-bolt clamp system and EZKonnect® self-leveling deck system. Other monthly prize winners in the Voltage playground contest received VISA gift cards and Apple iPods and will continue to be selected each month through December 31, 2011. “We are in the business of getting kids outside playing and moving. Voltage provides the ultimate in high-energy fun and extreme value in playgrounds, and we are proud to provide this prize to the Strongsville community,” said Tim Ahern, BCI Burke CEO/owner. “We are continually focused on providing innovative ways for kids to be active and lead healthy lifestyles. This helps us fulfill our mission,” he said. The Voltage design features 8 play events with a capacity for 48 kids ages 5 – 12 and is valued at more than $21,000. In partnership with BCI Burke specially trained playground consultants, Snider & Associates, Inc., the playground, including freight, will be provided at no charge. It will be installed in the Strongsville Youth Sports Park designed two years ago that features three little league baseball fields, a full size football field, a practice football field and a pavilion. BCI Burke is a premier manufacturer of commercial playground, park, and recreation equipment and an avid advocate of safe play for kids. More information about Burke and the contest is available at www.bciburke.com.
August 2011
Feature
Spray Park Installation – An Example Summary In writing this I am not trying to make this sound overly simply. There are many factors that go into installing a splash pad. At the beginning is typically an architect. They are able to work with the design and the needs of the splash pad crucial and not something that should be an afterthought. The architect will need to insure there is adequate water, drainage, and power OR will need to help resolve the water treatment and re-circulation question. In the example project I am using referencing for installation is a drain away system, I will summarize the installation of a drain away system. After receiving the go ahead from the proper officials to build we started with excavation for vault and drain placement to set the grade, the water has to flow down.
Once we had our vault and drain in place we had to dig and set our footers and spray features according the manufacturer’s instructions. After that we start running our plumbing lines, both for the water to the features and the drain to drain the water away. It becomes quite a spider web of pipes that we have to mate from splash pad feature to the correct valve in the vault. Since this system came pre-programmed by zones, we have to make sure we connect the correct spray feature to the correct valve. At this point we were also coordinating with local water company for water hook-up and electrician to bring power to our control system.
Once we complete hook-ups, ground each item and pressure test we can back fill with gravel. Following the gravel, we poured our cement pad and set it to run towards the drain. We turned on the spray park for testing and it sprayed wonderfully. We set the time on our controller and set it to run from the touchpad bollard in the park for the kids to control.
Opening day was a success because of all our thorough installation checkpoints. We were able to turn the spray park ON without a hitch and watch the kids enjoy the water on that hot summer day.
Jamey Snider Snider & Associates www.cvsnider.com
August 2011
Member Discount Programs NPCAI General Liability & Errors and Omission Program
The NPCAI Group Liability Insurance Plan and Errors & Omissions Insurance Coverage for Playground Safety Inspectors. Steve Carraway Cooper Insurance Services, Inc. PO Box 638, Lapel, IN 46051 (800) 252-3153 steve@cooperindiana.com http://www.cooperindiana.com ~ NPCAI Worker's Compensation Program
Blueprint By State Mark your Calendar Upcoming Conferences and Workshops August 30– September 1, 2011 Arizona Parks and Recreation Association Annual Conference - Tucson, AZ www.azpra.org September 7-10, 2011 Alaska Recreation and Parks Association Annual Conference - Seward, AK www.alaskaarpa.org September 10-13, 2011 SCRPA/NCRPA Joint Conference Charleston, SC www.scrpa.org September 17-20, 2011 5th Annual Virginia Recreation & Park Society Annual Conference Norfolk, VA www.vrps.com September 18-20, 2011 Oregon Recreation & Park Assocation Conference & Trade Show. Bend, OR www.orpa.org
Resources to Keep Your Business in Play. A Tailored Approach for NPCAI Members. Mille Wood Ascension Insurance Agency, Inc. 222 North Lafayette Street, Ste 11 Shelby, NC 28150-4450 (800) 482-3461 MWood@ASCENSIONNC.COM http://www.ascensionnc.com ~ NPCAI Supplement Insurance for Individuals Program
Aflac policies are 100% employeepaid and area available on a voluntary basis. Many companies choose to make AFLAC policies available as a cost effective solution to help employees with the raising cost of out-ofpocket health care expense.
Blue Print for Becoming and ALABAMA Licensed Contractor
September 19-22, 2011 Wyoming Recreation and Parks Association Committee Evanston, WY www.wyorpa.com September 19-22, 2011 Mississippi Recreation and Parks Association Convention & Trade Show, Olive Branch, MS www.aboutmrpa.org November 1 - 4, 2011 2011 Congress NRPA Congress and Exposition Atlanta, GA www.nrpa.org
Licensing Board for General Contractors 2525 Fairlane Drive • Montgomery. AL 36116 Telephone: (334) 272-5030 Fax: 334-395-5336 E-mail: mary.reynolds@genconbd.alabama.gov Website: http://www.genconbd.state.al.us The State of Alabama requires that contractors register with the Licensing Board for General Contractors and complete a Prime Contractor Application which has a $300.00 application fee. The application must be completed in its entirety; any individual may complete the application. The application requires the following information: (all to include, name, mailing address, city, state and zip code working phone & fax #, along with a contact person for each of the 4 references. Material Supplier Confidential Financial Statement booklet - Must be filled out by a Certified Public Accountant. You can download the application at www.genconbd.state.al.us or call them at (334) 272-5030 and they will mail you an application. The application has to be on file for 30 days prior to a board meeting which are held quarterly. All primes do have to take a Business and Law Exam administered by PSI testing center They do have reciprocity with Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Louisiana you have to be licensed for 3 years consecutively with the same classification you are wanting in Alabama, this form is called verification of license, included in the Prime Application.
Member Discount Rate - 5% to 10% Discount over direct rate. Steffanie Staples 8833 S Redwood Rd, Ste D, West Jordan, UT 84088 801-674-6310 Steffanie.staples@gmail.com
www.aflac.com
The statement and opinions express in the foregoing articles are those of the author, and not those of NPCAI. Copyrighted © 2011. International Playground Contractors Association. The Playground Insider is a registered trademark owned by the International Playground Contractors Association. All rights reserved. This is members ezine.