The Public Prosecution Service (OM) has imposed a fine of 17,500 euros on a foundation, which includes the relevant primary school in Heemstede. In September 2021, a tree trunk that had broken off due to wood rot fell on a student of the school, causing injury. The OM believes that there was serious bodily injury due to negligence. The playground equipment was also not certified, and no action was taken after the wood rot was observed in the equipment. The foundation acted in violation of the Commodities Act decision on attractions and playground equipment.
On the day in question, the victim was playing on the equipment during school hours with other students. This equipment had been placed on the schoolyard a few years earlier. However, the equipment was not certified, which meant it was not observed that it was made of pine wood. Pine wood is not suitable for use in playground equipment that is in contact with the ground. The wood began to rot, after which it broke when children were playing on it. The school took no action when this wood rot was previously observed during an annual inspection of the equipment. The student sustained serious bodily injury from the accident. The foundation has indicated that it has learned from the accident and has adjusted the process surrounding the certification, inspection, and maintenance of playground equipment. The OM considers a fine of 17,500 euros in this case to be an appropriate punishment.
The Importance of Certification and Maintenance of Playground Equipment
The certification of playground equipment and the proper follow-up of inspection reports is important. Playground equipment is often used by young children, who do not consider the safety of the equipment while playing. They cannot be expected to do so. Inspection and maintenance increase the safety of the use of that equipment. If this is neglected, it can lead to accidents with serious consequences.