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Making Playgrounds Accessible with ASTM F1951-Compliant Artificial Grass

Written by Turf Distributors | February 2025

If you're adding artificial grass to a playground, making sure it meets ASTM F1951 standards is key to keeping the space accessible for everyone, including individuals using wheelchairs and other mobility devices. While artificial grass can be designed to meet these standards, the whole installation—including the base, infill, and transitions—needs to be done right to ensure compliance. 

What is ASTM F1951 and Why Does It Matter? 

ASTM F1951 measures how easy it is for wheelchairs to move across a surface. Just having ASTM F1951-certified artificial grass isn’t enough—the entire system, from the base to the edges, plays a role in making sure the surface is safe and accessible.

Key Factors for Compliance

1. Stability and Firmness

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  • The surface needs to be solid and supportive, so mobility devices don’t sink or get stuck. 
  • A well-compacted base and evenly applied infill help maintain stability over time.

2. Pile Height and Infill Choices

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  • Shorter pile heights (typically 1.25 inches or less) make it easier to move across the surface. 
  • Infills, such as sand or coated rubber granules, should be evenly spread to prevent uneven areas. 
  • If infill is too loose or deep, it can make movement difficult.

3. Smooth Transitions and Edging

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  • ADA guidelines require minimal changes in height (less than 1/4 inch without a beveled edge or up to 1/2 inch with a beveled edge) to allow for smooth movement. 
  • Proper edging helps connect artificial grass seamlessly to surrounding surfaces like concrete, rubber tiles, or pathways. 

4. Impact Protection with ASTM F1292

  • While ASTM F1951 ensures accessibility, ASTM F1292 deals with impact protection and is mostly about shock pads or underlayment, not the turf itself. 
  • To meet ASTM F1292, artificial grass installations may need extra padding beneath the surface to absorb falls and reduce injury risks.

5. Drainage and Maintenance

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  • Good drainage keeps the surface firm and prevents hazards like pooling water. 
  • Regular upkeep, such as infill replacement and leveling, helps maintain compliance over time.

 

Turf Distributors: Your B2B Source for ASTM F1951-Compliant Turf 

At Turf Distributors, we specialize in providing ASTM F1951-compliant artificial grass to contractors, installers, and municipalities. As a national B2B brand, we focus on supplying top-quality turf for public parks, schools, and playgrounds—ensuring accessibility and durability for all users. 

While we don’t handle installations, we work with professionals across the industry to make sure they have the best turf for their projects. If you’re looking for artificial grass that meets ASTM F1951 standards, we can help you find the right product to keep your playground safe and accessible. 

Contact Us for ASTM F1951-Compliant Turf 

If you’re a contractor, installer, or municipality looking for high-quality, ASTM F1951-certified artificial grass, contact Turf Distributors today. Our team can guide you through product selection and ensure your project meets accessibility standards. Let’s work together to create safe, inclusive play spaces!

If you're looking for official ADA guidelines, you can refer to:
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