When children play, bumps and falls are inevitable. In fact, around 70% of playground injuries are caused by falls from equipment. That’s why the surface beneath swings, climbing frames, and slides matters just as much as the equipment itself.
Artificial grass – especially when installed with shock pads – is one of the most effective ways to reduce playground injuries. It cushions falls, creates a consistent surface, and provides year-round safety that natural grass and loose-fill surfaces can’t always guarantee.
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Is Artificial Grass Safe for Children’s Play Areas?
Yes. Modern playground turf is designed with safety at its core. Unlike old-style “Astroturf”, today’s surfaces are soft, non-abrasive, and tested to BS EN 1177 safety standards.
At As Good As Grass, our playground installations include:
- Critical fall height protection for up to 3 metres.
- UV-stabilised fibres that won’t fade or crack.
- Non-toxic, pet- and child-friendly materials.
- Surfaces that drain quickly, so play areas remain safe even after rain.
The result is a cleaner, safer play environment that encourages children to spend more time outdoors – something Ofsted notes is vital for development.
How Does Artificial Turf Reduce Injuries?
Artificial grass helps prevent serious injuries in several ways:
- Impact absorption – Shock pads beneath the turf reduce the severity of falls, protecting against fractures and head injuries.
- Non-slip surface – Even in wet weather, the surface stays stable and reduces trip risks.
- Abrasion-free fibres – Soft polyethylene yarn is far gentler on skin than concrete, gravel, or worn grass.
- Consistent coverage – Natural turf wears unevenly, creating divots and hard patches. Artificial grass stays level all year.
What to Put Under Artificial Turf for a Playground
The safety of a playground surface isn’t just about the grass – it’s about what’s underneath.
At As Good As Grass, we use shock pad underlays that meet strict fall-height regulations:
- 25mm pad → protection up to approx. 1.4m
- 50mm pad → protection up to approx. 2.8m
These pads are fully porous, so rainwater drains away quickly, and they can be installed on aggregate, concrete, or tarmac bases. Combined with our child-friendly grasses, this creates a safe, durable, all-weather play area.
👉 See our full Shock Pads & Safety Flooring range.
How Long Does Playground Artificial Grass Last?
With professional installation, artificial grass in schools and playgrounds typically lasts 10–20 years.
At As Good As Grass, we offer:
- 10-year product guarantee on our grasses.
- 3-year groundworks guarantee on installations.
- Expert aftercare and maintenance advice to extend surface life.
Unlike natural turf, it won’t turn muddy, bald, or patchy under heavy use.
Additional Benefits for Schools & Communities
- Cleaner play – no mud, no puddles, no grass stains.
- Allergy-friendly – reduces pollen exposure and keeps pests at bay.
- Cost-effective – lower maintenance costs than grass, bark, or sand.
- Durable – designed to handle constant footfall from pupils and staff.
Real-World Installations
We’ve installed safe play surfacing for schools, nurseries, and community spaces across Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and beyond.
From small nursery courtyards to multi-sport MUGA pitches, every project is tailored to meet safety requirements – with shock pads, non-slip surfaces, and creative layouts that encourage imaginative play.
FAQs About Artificial Grass Safety
Got questions about safety? You’re not alone. Here are the answers to the most common concerns parents, schools, and councils ask us about artificial grass in playgrounds.
Why was Astroturf banned?
Old sports turf was abrasive and unsafe. Today’s playground grasses are soft, cushioned, and fully safety-tested.
Is artificial turf linked to ACL injuries?
That debate relates to professional sports. For playgrounds, the goal is fall protection, not competitive performance – and artificial grass with shock pads significantly reduces risk of injury.
Is natural grass safer?
Grass offers some protection for short falls, but it wears out, hardens in dry spells, and turns to mud in winter. Artificial grass stays consistently safe and usable year-round.
How do I make a safe play area in my garden?
Combine child-friendly turf with a shock pad base. This provides a soft, non-slip surface for kids to play safely at home.
Conclusion
Playground injuries will never disappear entirely, but choosing the right surface can make a huge difference. Artificial grass with shock pads offers:
- Impact protection for falls
- Soft, non-abrasive play areas
- Consistent safety in all weathers
👉 Contact As Good As Grass today for a free survey and expert advice.
