Absolutely! When designing outdoor spaces for families, choosing child-safe benches is a crucial consideration. The good news is that there are numerous designs specifically created to eliminate sharp edges and minimize injury risks for children.
The cornerstone of a child-safe bench is its rounded, smooth profile. Instead of traditional 90-degree corners, these benches feature fully rounded edges on the seat, backrest, and armrests. This design philosophy extends to every component, including the legs and structural supports, which are often curved or have large, softened radii. The goal is to create a surface with no protruding points or harsh angles that could cause cuts or bruises during active play.
Material choice is equally important for safety and durability. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic is a popular option as it can be molded into seamless, one-piece units with inherently smooth surfaces. For wooden benches, hardwoods like cedar or oak are sanded to a silky-smooth finish, and all fasteners (screws or bolts) are deeply countersunk and covered with plastic caps to prevent snagging clothing or skin. Powder-coated metals also offer a durable, scratch-resistant finish without sharp burrs.
Look for benches certified to safety standards like ASTM F1487 (Public Playground Equipment) or CPSC guidelines, which specify requirements for protrusions, entrapment spaces, and pinch points. Many modern designs also incorporate tamper-proof fasteners to prevent dismantling. By prioritizing these rounded, robust designs, communities and homeowners can create welcoming, secure seating areas where children can relax comfortably and parents can have peace of mind.