What is Impact Attenuation?

Impact Attenuation is the measure of a playground surface’s shock absorbing properties. Playground surfaces tested for Impact Attenuation reduce the risk of serious head injuries.

ASTM International developed a set of standards to increase play area safety with ASTM F1292, a specification for Impact Attenuation. The purpose of the specification is to reduce the likelihood of life-threatening head injuries.

How is Impact Attenuation tested?

The surfaces used in play areas are required to be tested for impact attenuation. The testing method determines the shock absorbency by using a testing method that simulates the impact of a child’s head with the surface.

Testing is typically done in a laboratory situation. An instrument that simulates a child’s head is dropped from various heights and the results determine the Critical Fall Height of the surface material. Critical Fall Height is the vertical distance between the surface of the play area and the highest designated play area and calculates the highest fall height where a life-threatening head injury would not be expected to occur.

Are SafeLandings’ Shock Absorbing Flooring Systems™ tested for Impact Attenuation?

SafeLandings is dedicated to the prevention of injuries to children caused by the impact of a fall. We comply with requirements and procedures detailed in ASTM F1292. Each system is tested to make sure we deliver on our promise to provide the best available Shock Absorbing Flooring System™ for indoor play areas.