When schools and nurseries consider upgrading their play areas, safety is always the first question. Parents and teachers want reassurance that artificial grass isn’t just convenient – it’s genuinely safe for children of all ages. The short answer? Yes, artificial grass is safe for schools and playgrounds when installed to UK safety standards. With the right surface, shock pads, and professional installation, it can actually reduce the risk of injuries compared to traditional surfaces like tarmac or concrete.
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⚡ Quick Answer: Is Artificial Grass Safe for Children?
Artificial grass for schools is designed and tested with child safety in mind. Unlike older “astro turf”, today’s playground surfaces are:
- Soft and non-abrasive – no grazed knees from trips and falls.
- Tested to BS EN 1177 Critical Fall Height standards – certified for playground safety.
- Installed with shock pads where needed – providing extra protection under climbing frames or slides.
Installed correctly, artificial grass for schools and nurseries is one of the safest and most durable outdoor surfacing options available today.
🛡️ Critical Fall Height & Shock Pads
One of the most common safety questions is: what happens if a child falls? Artificial grass is tested to BS EN 1177 standards for Critical Fall Height (CFH). This ensures the surface absorbs impact from playground equipment such as slides and climbing frames.
- Shock pad underlays protect children from falls of up to 3 metres.
- Foam pads come in different thicknesses to match the playground equipment height.
- Unlike tarmac or concrete, the surface won’t cause severe impact injuries.
We regularly install systems with shock pads for schools. For example, see our Barlow Hall Primary School project, where artificial grass created a safe, impact-absorbing picnic and play zone.
🌱 Non-Toxic & Child-Friendly Materials
Another concern for schools and nurseries is whether artificial turf contains harmful chemicals. Modern products supplied by As Good As Grass are:
- Lead-free and non-toxic – safe for toddlers, infants, and older pupils alike.
- Certified for child and pet safety – unlike older astro turf surfaces.
- Latex-free and PU-backed options available – reducing risk of allergens and increasing longevity.
We only use products that meet strict UK and EU safety requirements, so staff and parents can be confident the surface is safe.
🔥 Fire Safety & Standards
Fire resistance is another important consideration in schools. High-quality artificial grass is tested to European fire classifications:
- C-class fire rating is recommended for schools and nurseries.
- Surfaces are designed to limit flame spread, unlike dry natural grass.
This means artificial turf provides peace of mind for educational settings where child safety comes first.
👟 Everyday Safety Benefits
Beyond formal testing, artificial grass improves daily safety in ways teachers and pupils notice immediately:
- No mud or mess – fewer slips and no dirty classrooms after playtime.
- Quick drainage – safe even in rainy conditions.
- Slip-resistant surface – far safer than tarmac or decking in the wet.
- Allergy reduction – no pollen or grass cuttings triggering hay fever.
Take a look at our Calder Learning Trust installation, where pupils now enjoy a safe, mud-free surface all year round.
⏳ Durability & Long-Term Maintenance
For schools and nurseries, safety isn’t just about today – it’s about creating a surface that stays safe year after year. High-quality artificial grass is designed to last 10–15 years in heavy-use educational settings, even under daily play and sports.
- Durability: Dense fibres and PU backing withstand constant foot traffic without flattening or breaking down.
- Low maintenance: No mowing, fertilising, or mud control — just occasional brushing to keep fibres upright.
- Cost savings: Fewer maintenance hours free up school budgets for other priorities.
Compared to rubber or tarmac, artificial grass designed for school playgrounds offers both safety and long-term value, making it a smarter investment for education settings.
❓ FAQs
Still have questions about playground safety? Here are the answers to the most common ones schools ask us.
Is artificial grass safe for schools and nurseries?
Yes – when installed to UK safety standards and with shock pads where needed, it is one of the safest play surfaces available.
Does artificial grass get too hot for children?
In the UK climate, overheating is rare. Light brushing and shade from trees or canopies help keep surfaces cool even on warm days.
What safety certifications apply to school installations?
BS EN 1177 (Critical Fall Height) is the key standard for playgrounds. High-quality turf is also fire-tested and certified as non-toxic.
Do nurseries need special artificial grass?
Yes – softer, shorter pile products are often recommended for toddlers, paired with shock pads for added safety.
How long does artificial grass last in a school setting?
With professional installation and maintenance, 10–15 years or more – even under daily high foot traffic.
📞 Need Expert Advice on School Safety?
At As Good As Grass, we’ve installed hundreds of school and nursery play surfaces across the UK, all tested for safety and built to last. From nurseries to secondary schools, we create safe, vibrant outdoor spaces pupils can enjoy all year.
👉 Request a Free School Survey Today or call 0161 207 3007 to speak to our team.
