Kidztrends: South Africa's Leader in Playground Safety & HIC Testing
- Ian Lewin
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
# Kidztrends: South Africa's Leader in Playground Safety & HIC Testing
# Why Kidztrends Leads in Playground Safety: The Importance of HIC Testing
When it comes to children's play areas, safety isn't just a buzzword; it's a non-negotiable foundation. At Kidztrends, South Africa's leading children's playground design company, we understand this deeply. That's why we're proud to be the *only* company in South Africa that conducts comprehensive Head Injury Criterion (HIC) testing on site on all our wet-pour rubber surfacing at every fall height.

This commitment to rigorous safety protocols sets us apart and offers unparalleled peace of mind to schools, childcare centers, municipalities, and homeowners alike. Let's delve into why HIC testing is so crucial and how Kidztrends is raising the bar for playground safety across the nation.
#Understanding Head Injury Criterion (HIC) Testing
In simple terms, HIC testing measures the potential for head injury if someone falls onto a surface. It's a critical assessment for playground safety surfacing, simulating impacts to determine if the surface adequately absorbs shock to reduce the risk of severe head trauma. A lower HIC value indicates a safer surface.
Playground equipment comes with varying maximum fall heights (MFH) – the highest point from which a child could fall. For a playground surface to be genuinely safe, it must demonstrate adequate impact attenuation for the specific MFH of the equipment installed above it. Without this precise testing, you're essentially guessing at the level of protection.
## The Kidztrends Difference: Testing Every Fall Height
Many suppliers might offer general assurances about their surfacing. However, Kidztrends takes a proactive and scientifically backed approach. We don't just rely on theoretical data; we perform *on-site* HIC testing for *every specific fall height* on all our wet-pour rubber installations. This means:
Tailored Safety:** We ensure that the depth and composition of our recycled rubber flooring are perfectly matched to the fall height requirements of your specific Verified Performance:**
Our clients receive documented proof that their surfacing actively mitigates head injury risks according to stringent safety standards.
Uncompromised Assurance:** You can rest easy knowing that every square meter of your Kidztrends playground has been scientifically verified for optimal safety.
## Compliance with South African Legislative Standards
This meticulous approach to HIC testing isn't just about good practice; it's about adherence to vital safety guidelines. While specific South African legislation might highlight general safety requirements, international standards such as EN 1177 (Impact Attenuating Playground Surfacing) and ASTM F1292 (Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing Materials Within the Use Zone of Playground Equipment) provide the benchmark for HIC testing. By rigorously testing our surfaces to these world-class benchmarks, Kidztrends ensures that our installations help clients meet and exceed their duty of care concerning child safety.
Choosing a compliant and rigorously tested surface isn't merely a recommendation; it's a necessary step to protect children and safeguard your organisation from potential liabilities. Our commitment to HIC testing at every fall height simplifies this complex requirement for you.
## Beyond Safety: The Kidztrends Ecosystem
While HIC testing is a cornerstone of our safety promise, it's just one part of the comprehensive Kidztrends offering:
* **Eco-Friendly Design:** We specialise in creating beautiful, sustainable play areas using recycled materials.
* **Durable & Safe Surfaces:** Our recycled rubber flooring and artificial grass are built to last, providing hygienic, low-maintenance, and all-weather play environments.
* **Versatile Applications:** From water parks and schools to bike tracks and private homes, our surfacing solutions cater to a vast range of needs.
* **Expert Installation:** Our skilled teams ensure precise and efficient installation, guaranteeing the longevity and performance of your chosen surface.
## Choose Verified Safety with Kidztrends
When you partner with Kidztrends, you're not just getting a playground; you're investing in a meticulously designed, engaging, and, most importantly, *verifiably safe* environment for children to thrive. Our unique commitment to HIC testing at every fall height ensures that your surfacing performs exactly as promised, providing optimal impact attenuation where it matters most.
Don't settle for less than the safest. Choose Kidztrends for playground solutions that stand up to the highest standards, ensuring joy and security for every child.
see us online at www.kidztrends.co.za

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