What is a splash pad?
A splash pad or spray pool is a recreation area, often in a public park, for water play that has little or no standing water. This is said to eliminate the need for lifeguards or other supervision, as there is little risk of drowning .
How much water does a splash pad use?
Splash pad water consumption will vary based on water line size and if a recirculating system is in use. Water usage can range from 20 to 100 cubic meters of water per day depending on the water quality management system in place. How big should my splash pad be?
Do splash pads have showers?
Typically there are ground nozzles that spray water upwards out of the splash pad's raindeck. There may also be other water features such as a rainbow (semicircular pipe shower), or mushroom- or tree-shaped showers. Some splash pads feature movable nozzles similar to those found on fire trucks to allow users to spray others.
What is a recirculation system for a splash pad?
In a private sector environment (i.e. campground, amusement park etc.), a recirculation system that “recycles” the water is often used due to the high volume of water that would be required to operate the splash pad. When does my local splash pad open?
How do splash pad buttons work?
How does it work? The bollard is equipped with a sensor that is activated by touch. When a child taps the bollard, the splash pad turns on. Then, after a set period of time, the splash pad will automatically shut off and remain off, unless it is activated again by another tap on the bollard.
Do splash pads use the same water?
There are two kinds of splash pads: splash pads that recycle the water they use and pads that discard the water once it's made its way through the pad. The splash pads that use recycled water have similar rules to public pools.
What do you need for a splash pad?
SPLASH PAD ESSENTIALS: What to pack for a day of water playSwimwear (arrive ready to play!)Sunscreen.Hats & sunglasses.Towels & beach blankets.Swim diapers.Snacks & drinks (stay hydrated!)Toys (water-friendly additions to your play experience)Water shoes or sandals.More items...•
What is the difference between a splash pad and a spray pad?
Splash Pads For starters, while splash pad equipment can include features that spray or pour water on users, there is generally no standing water on the pad to reduce the chance of emergencies. The absence of standing water means that splash pads are more likely to be unsupervised versus a spray park.
Should you wear shoes on splash pad?
Water shoes — street shoes are not allowed at most splash-pads. While bare feet are usually allowed, water shoes are recommended to avoid slipping. Extra swim diapers for the little ones. Plastic bags for wet diapers and swimsuits.
How do water parks Let there water out?
In these rooms, pumps draw water in from a collecting pool, pass it through a filtering and chlorinating system and pump it out to slides and other rides in the park. At night, the park managers reverse the flow of water through the filter.
What parents wear to splash pads?
If you have a one piece swimming suit you could wear it with some board shorts. If you prefer to stay more covered, anything from a tank top to a long sleeve sun shirt would be great- just make sure it is okay to get wet.
How many gallons of water does a splash pad use?
An average medium-sized splashpad runs approximately 160 GPM, or just under 55,000 gallons per day. To irrigate a youth soccer field requires approximately 22,000 gallons per day (in the southeastern United States) to 68,000 gallons per day (in the southwestern United States).
What should kids wear to splash pad?
Sunscreen, Hats & Sunglasses – Splash pads are notorious for lack of shade. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and other protection against the sun should always be on your list when planning time outside. Beach Towels & Blankets – Not just to stay dry, but warm and comfy too.
Where does the water from splash pad come from?
Domestic water supply is typically used for splash pads and contains a small amount of chlorine based on potable water standards. Higher concentrations of chlorine are used when the water from the splash pad is being recirculated and requires additional disinfection as per pool code regulations.
Are splash pads gross?
When kids and adults play in splash pads, all manner of containments can wash off of them and then be recirculated through the water. According to the CDC, this includes feces, urine, dirt, and germs. Since young children generally utilize splash pads, poor toileting skills often come into play.
Are water parks sanitary?
Most public pools are contaminated with urine and feces. coli bacteria — a marker for fecal contamination. While the study doesn't include water parks per se, it'd be reasonable to assume that water park pools are as contaminated as regular public pools.
Is splash pad water recirculated Ontario?
26.4 (1) Every operator of a public spray pad or public splash pad shall ensure that, where water is recirculating, the water is filtered and disinfected as approved by the local medical officer of health or a public health inspector for the health unit where the public spray pad or public splash pad is situate.
Are splash pads gross?
When kids and adults play in splash pads, all manner of containments can wash off of them and then be recirculated through the water. According to the CDC, this includes feces, urine, dirt, and germs. Since young children generally utilize splash pads, poor toileting skills often come into play.
How do you store a splash pad?
Tip the water out from the center, then drain the water from the ring through the nozzle. It's also easy to store; you just fold it up and stow it away in the little box it comes in. This splash pad is a fresh reprieve on a hot summer day — and it's less stressful than packing up a beach bag.
What is water play area?
Water play areas (may also be called an interactive fountain, wet deck, splash pad, spray pad, or spray park) are becoming more common. People may not realize that although there is no standing water in these attractions, the spray water will rinse any contaminants (for example, diarrhea, vomit, and dirt) down into the water holding area and be sprayed again. In other words, the water is recycled through the system. As a result, it is possible for the water to become contaminated and make people sick.
Why are water play areas / interactive fountains not required?
Because water play areas / interactive fountains are relatively new , health departments may not have specific requirements for how this water is treated. The water play area / interactive fountain may have been built without a system to make sure that contaminants are disinfected and filtered.
What is a splash pad?
A splash pad or spray pool is a recreation area, often in a public park, for water play that has little or no standing water. This is said to eliminate the need for lifeguards or other supervision, as there is little risk of drowning . Typically there are ground nozzles that spray water upwards out of the splash pad's raindeck.
Where are splash fountains placed?
While they may be placed in public parks like children's splash pads, splash fountains are also likely to be placed in public squares or at urban beaches .
What is a rainbow shower?
There may also be other water features such as a rainbow (semicircular pipe shower ), or mushroom- or tree-shaped showers. Some splash pads feature movable nozzles similar to those found on fire trucks to allow users to spray others.
What is a spray pool?
A typical definition was laid out by a 1986 Heath Act in British Columbia which stated that a spray pool is "an artificially constructed depression or basin for use by children, into which potable water is sprayed but not allowed to accumulate in the bottom."
Why does a spray pool have drains?
The area beneath a spray pool typically has drain openings so that the water it produces will not flood the surrounding landscape. In some instances, the water collected in these drains is recycled back into the spray mechanism, thereby conserving water.
Where is the largest splash fountain in Europe?
Splash fountains. The Splash Fountain in Krasnodar, Russia. The largest splash fountain in Europe. Splash fountains, unlike splash pads, encourage use from people of all ages. These fountains are usually designed to be both visually appealing (from a distance) and also interactive.
Is a splash pad good for kids?
Many splash pads have some features such as fine mist, that are designed to be moderate enough for children. Other splash fountains are designed for adults, e.g. for joggers or concert goers to cool off in.
What is a splash pad?
A splash pad consists of one or more deck areas fitted with a combination of various nozzles and may include above-ground “spray toys,” (umbrellas, flowers, hydrants, tipping buckets, etc.) intermittently spraying, squirting, dumping, or gushing—while kids of all ages dash from feature to feature, thoroughly enjoying themselves.
What is the second system in a pool?
The second system uses an independent, recirculating treatment system that filters and sanitizes the water contained in an underground storage reservoir, or catch basin, similar to that of a swimming pool treatment system. Typically, the pumps that power the spray features operate independently from the treatment system.
Why do hot tubs have chloramines?
Chloramines are the byproduct of chlorine sanitation created when contaminants combine with low levels of chlorine in the circulated water and that need to be removed through oxidation so proper free chlorine levels are maintained in the water. For this reason, the enclosed reservoir must have plenty of ventilation to prevent a build-up of off-gas. Without proper ventilation, chloramine levels are more difficult to control since the off-gas dissolves into the water, forming even stronger chloramines. Chloramines are also highly corrosive due to the moist environment inside the tank and will quickly rust metal (even stainless-steel) fixtures and fasteners.
Do splash pads need to be round?
Shape and contour of the site can be accommodated in unique and interesting ways. Splash pads do not need to be round, or square, or even flat—use your imagination! Research the types of features that are available, but don’t feel limited to choosing from a single supplier.
Can splash pad water be used for irrigation?
However, many facilities find that flow-through splash pad water can be collected, stored, and used for landscape irrigation, thus conserving water.
Why install a splash pad?
When a splash pad is properly designed and installed, you will save money and time on operational costs and long-term maintenance. Your business will also have the flexibility to upgrade or expand your aquatic play solution when you choose. If you want a splash pad installed on your commercial property, follow the steps below.
Why are splash pads so popular?
This attraction can offer many benefits to businesses, including increased interaction and cost benefits. Splash pads come with safety features to ensure kids can play safely and your business can reduce liability.
What Is a Commercial Splash Pad?
A commercial splash pad, also known as a spray pool, is a recreational area that has little or no standing water. This product provides a rich sensory experience and facilitates water play for kids. At Soft Play ®, our commercial-grade splash pads incorporate the following features:
What is a recirculating splash pad?
Recirculating splash pad systems: Recirculating systems, on the other hand, collect the water in a holding tank where it is treated, filtered and pumped back out to the spray nozzles. A recirculating system requires scheduled water monitoring and chemical adjustments. Though this system uses less water, monitoring is a cost to consider.
What is the final step in the splash pad process?
One of the final steps of the process is manufacturing and construction . After you have planned and analyzed all the matters related to your splash pad project, you can hire Soft Play to break ground on your aquatic play area. We will handle everything from laying the splash pad floor to installing the play features.
How does a splash pad increase customer loyalty?
Gain customer loyalty: With the installation of a splash pad, your business can gain new customers and increase customer loyalty by giving families a reason to continue returning for more fun.
What are the two types of splash pad systems?
Your costs will vary depending on the type of system you choose. You can choose from the two types of splash pad systems – pass-through and recirculating:
What is splash pad?
A splash pad is a zero-depth aquatic play area that allows families to cool off with peace of mind. Many park administrators appreciate how they require no lifeguard supervision as they pose no more risk than standard dry-play playground equipment.
What happens to the water that drains from the splash pad?
There are a few different options to consider when it comes to managing the water that drains from a splash pad.
Is the water from a splash pad recycled?
campground, amusement park etc.), a recirculation system that “recycles” the water is often used due to the high volume of water that would be required to operate the splash pad.
When does my local splash pad open?
The splash pad operating season typically runs from late May until the end of September de pending on weather. Check your municipality’s website for a listing of splash pad locations and operating hours.
How many gallons of water does a splash pad use?
Splash pad water consumption will vary based on water line size and if a recirculating system is in use. Water usage can range from 20 to 100 cubic meters of water per day depending on the water quality management system in place.
Do I need washrooms near my splash pad?
From a thermal comfort perspective, you want people to come and stay for a while and one of the basic necessities is a place to use the washroom. Having a washroom near your splash pad helps to keep your splash pad clean and prevents kids from using the washroom in the splash pad. Additionally, having a washroom nearby will keep families at the splash pad longer. If a bathroom isn’t feasible at your splash pad, a portable toilet is another option.
What other items should I add to my splash pad area?
Site furnishings make spaces more comfortable and useful for users. Consider adding site amenities to your splash pad such as benches, tables and chairs, and shade . Additionally, to help keep your splash pad neat and tidy, provide guests with litter and recycling receptacles. Lastly, planters help spruce up outdoor spaces with natural pops of colour and life
Why is there no equipment for splash pad installation?
Since there is no equipment because you are running off of the city water supply and pressure you have no additional equipment cost on the splash pad install – we attach to your water source.
How many gallons of water does a splash pad hold?
With a splash pad, you are dealing with a very small body of water around 1,000 gallons instead of the 10’s of thousand gallons you have with a pool. It only takes a few children in diapers to play in the splash pad after you have checked the chemicals and you could quickly have a bacteria problem in the water.
How far away from a splash pad should a bathroom be?
Federal mandates are that a bathroom is within 200 feet of the splash pad area, so if you do not have one already within the amount of feet needed then one will need to be built meeting other federal guidelines.
How wide is a splash pad?
Another federal mandate is a dryzone around the splash pad – this can be from 5′ – 10′ wide as a sidewalk around the perimeter of the splash pad which can double size of the splash pad concrete.
What is the only eletric part of a pad?
Low electric usage since the only eletric part of the pad is a low voltage bollard activator (if you choose one).
Is splash pad safe for kids?
Safety first! At My Splash Pad, one of our priorities is having the safest water play for children everywhere! We recommend a fresh water system so children do not come in contact harmful bacteria and chemicals that could potentially cause illness, skin irritations, and burns. You never know what they are sensitive to these days, so it is better to be safe than sorry for everyone.
Do you need a sealed engineering drawing for a splash pad?
You will need Sealed Engineered Drawings done for a recirculation splash pad and your Engineer will work with your city on their requirements. You will have substantially more costs in permits and onsite inspections, so it will take us longer to install which costs you more due to the extra time we are on-site.
Why is it important to have a splash pad?
PLANNING AND INSTALLING a properly engineered splash pad will save you time and money in long-term maintenance, operational costs and allow for flexibility when expanding or upgrading your aquatic play solution.
How is an aquatic project contracted?
In some cases, the equipment and services needed for an aquatic project will be contracted through a competitive bidding process, whereby a request for proposal (RFP) is extended to potential suppliers and aquatics manufacturers. Through this procurement process, the contract is awarded to the most preferable proposal.
Is aquatic play a success?
Your aquatic play project is a great success and will be enjoyed for years and years to come!
Overview
A splash pad or spray pool is a recreation area, often in a public park, for water play that has little or no standing water. This is said to eliminate the need for lifeguards or other supervision, as there is little risk of drowning.
Typically there are ground nozzles that spray water upwards out of the splash pad's raindeck. There may also be other water features such as a rainbow (semicircular pipe shower), or mushr…
Definitions
A typical definition was laid out by a 1986 Heath Act in British Columbia which stated that a spray pool is "an artificially constructed depression or basin for use by children, into which potable water is sprayed but not allowed to accumulate in the bottom."
Similarly, the city of Norfolk, Virginia, specifically defines a spray pool as "any shallow manmade structure constructed from materials other than natural earth or soil used for spraying humans wi…
Popularity
Popular in summertime and especially prevalent in urban areas, the spray pool offers an alternative to the practice of opening fire hydrants so that children can play and cool off in the water - a practice which is illegal and has been cited as dangerous in that it lowers the water pressure in a given area and makes firefighting more difficult. A spray pool does not need to be staffed by qualified lifeguards.
Common features
Depending upon the strength and arc of the flow, the force of the spray can be relatively strong (especially close to the point where the water emerges) or may have more resemblance to rainfall or even a fine mist. Many splash pads have some features such as fine mist, that are designed to be moderate enough for children. Other splash fountains are designed for adults, e.g. for joggers or concert goers to cool off in.
Special features
Hydraulophones are the world's first musical instrument that makes music from vibrations in water. By pressing on jets of water laid out to a musical scale, hydraulophones make a unique sound. Hydraulophones have been installed in water parks, museums, and science centres around the world, including the Legoland California Resort, Chicago Children's Museum, and the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto.
Examples
Placement and management of spray pools varies according to the municipality in which they are located. For example:
• On Boston Common, the so-called "Frog Pond" (which is a public ice-skating rink in winter) becomes a spray pool for children in the summer. The facility is managed by the Boston Common Frog Pond Foundation and staffed by youth workers from the Boston Youth Fund.
See also
• Water park