CAN/CSA Z614 Annex H FAQ
Children's playspaces and equipment
that are accessible to persons with disabilities
To download a PDF version of this FAQ sheet, click on the following link: FAQ.pdf
Why is it important for owner/operators to ensure accessible playspaces?
How does Annex H support accessibility in playspaces?
How does an owner/operator apply Annex H?
Are there additional costs associated with implementing Annex H?
Can owner/operators go beyond the minimum requirements outlined in Annex H?
Is Annex H aligned with other accessibility guidelines or standards?
Where can I learn more about Annex H?
Why is it important for owner/operators to ensure accessible playspaces?
All children have a right to access playspaces in their community. Accessible playspaces encourage diversity and use by all members of the community. This in turn benefits every child due to a wider range of opportunities for play. Parents of children with disabilities benefit from lower travel costs by being able to take children to accessible playspaces in their community. Accessible playspaces also facilitate participation by parents and other adults with disabilities who accompany children to the play area.
How does Annex H support accessibility in playspaces?
Annex H spells out minimum requirements for what constitutes an accessible playspace. The Annex document is best applied to new playspace developments. It can also be applied to renovation or retrofit projects.
How does Annex H work?
Annex H generally does two things. First it identifies what is to be accessible for those persons with disabilities, at both ground and above ground levels of the playspace. Second, the Annex spells out necessary specifications for how this is to be achieved.
How does an owner/operator apply Annex H?
Annex H is written in mandatory language to facilitate its use as a technical specification. Owner/operators should check with their suppliers to ensure they can meet these requirements. The owners then need to reference Annex H in their request for proposal (RFP) and subsequent contract stipulating that the playspace design, associated equipment, and resulting development meet these accessibility requirements.
Owner/operators that oversee a number of playspace developments such as municipalities and school boards, are encouraged to adopt this Annex as policy in the same way that many currently do with CAN/CSA-Z614. This will ensure that all of their playspaces are both safe and accessible. Some municipalities such as the City of Edmonton have achieved this combined result with great success.
Are there additional costs associated with implementing Annex H?
Cost analysis studies undertaken in Edmonton and the US have shown marginal overall cost increases in the range of 4-10%. Much of this additional capital cost was a result of installing accessible surfacing materials.
Can owner/operators go beyond the minimum requirements outlined in Annex H?
Most definitely! Equipment suppliers have an array of accessible playground equipment features. These are generally outlined in their catalogues which are available upon request. Site designers who use a Universal Design approach can also provide a range of unique and interesting accessibility options for owner/operators.
Is Annex H aligned with other accessibility guidelines or standards?
Yes. Annex H was developed to be in alignment with established norms in Canada and the US. Since many equipment suppliers and designers are currently working within a North American context, these alignments ensure wide acceptance and understanding of the requirements.
Where can I learn more about Annex H?
Currently there is a national coalition of play and accessibility advocates who are working to support CSA in the promotion of Annex H. Promotional and educational materials along with available studies are now available on the web at Active Living Alliance for Canadians with a Disability www.ala.ca. Annex H can be purchased as part of CAN/CSA-Z614 Children’s Playspaces and Equipment Standard at www.ShopCSA.ca or by calling 1-800-463-6727.
