§ Mr. MaclennanTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment how many children were injured last year as a result of playground accidents; what measures she has put in place to prevent playground accidents; and if she will make a statement. [7216]
§ Mrs. GillanBetween 1 April 1995 and 31 March 1996, an estimated 724 accidents in Great Britain, involving children aged 16 and under, in playgrounds and 617W indoor play areas at educational establishments were reported to the Health and Safety Executive. The majority of these accidents were fractures; none were fatal.
Schools must take appropriate steps to ensure that playground areas are safe. The Department has recently published "Area Guidelines for Schools" which contains general safety guidance. More detailed safety information on school playgrounds will be available shortly.