UFC 4-740-14
1 August 2002
6-5
COMMON FEATURES. The following features are common across the
Outdoor Activity Area. Features that are specific to the age-specific playgrounds are
discussed in Section 6-6.
6-5.1
Fencing. Enclose play areas with fences to define the play area, allow
ease of supervision of children, and protect them from unauthorized individuals or stray
animals. In addition, consider that CDC location and local conditions may necessitate
the use of fences and screens to block views from outside the center. The fence is one
of the most visible elements in the center, so design to be compatible with the
architecture of the CDC and be more than simply utilitarian. Consider a combination of
fencing materials to avoid an institutional or "animal pen" effect. Black or dark green
vinyl-coated chain link is the preferred fence material. Exposed galvanized wire, which
has a highly institutional appearance, is not appropriate. Address the following items :
6-5.1.1
Use bollards, raised planters, or other devices to protect play areas
located next to driveways or roads where cars could swerve into the play area.
6-5.1.2
The transparent or opaque nature of the fence and fence height depends
upon the location and environmental conditions of the center and the requirements
identified by the military security risk assessment.
6-5.1.3
Enclose the perimeter of the play area by a 1520 mm (5 ft.) high fence
when allowing views into the play yard. Add or position planting or landscape features
so that an adult would not be able to reach over the fence.
The Navy requires a
minimum 1520 mm (5 ft.) high fence around all playgrounds. Additionally, Navy facility
planners must submit site plans to BUPERS-659 to determine if a taller fence or solid
wall is required.
6-5.1.4
When the play area is adjacent to hazards, busy roadways, or is in a high
security risk neighborhood, enclose the perimeter of the play area by a 2440 mm (8 ft)
high fence.
6-5.1.5
Design fences that subdivide the play area within the perimeter fence to
be 915 mm to 1520 mm (3 ft. to 5 ft) in height. Provide gates between playgrounds.
6-5.1.6
Do not make fences out of wood.
The Marine Corps allows wood
fences. Make wood fences smooth-finished and splinter-free and use materials
guaranteed to be non-toxic if treated for exterior use.
6-5.1.7
Make the top edge and bottom edge selvage knuckled with no sharp
exposed connections accessible to children. Make the fence bottom to be no more than
75 mm (3 in.) above the ground. Consider burying the bottom on the fencing.
6-5.1.8
It is important to design fences so that spaces between vertical elements
do not allow children's heads to be entrapped. Design so space between vertical
elements is not more than 85 mm (3.5 in.). Additionally, design fence openings to be
large enough to prevent finger or hand entrapment, but not so small that fingers and
6-5
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