Log Rolls on the Playground

Log Rolls on the Playground

Public Playground Safety Handbook - CPSC Publication 325
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

5.3.3 Log rolls

Log rolls help older children master balance skills and increase strength. Children must balance on top of the log as they spin it with their feet.
• Log rolls are not recommended for toddlers and preschool-age children. These children generally do not possess the balance, coordination, and strength to use a log roll safely.
• Log rolls should have handholds to assist with balance.
• The handholds should follow the guidelines in §5.2.2.
• The highest point of the rolling log should be a maximum of 18 inches above the protective surface below.
• When not part of a composite structure, the use zone may overlap with neighboring equipment if the other piece of equipment allows overlapping use zones (see §5.3.9) and
– There is at least 6 feet between equipment when adjacent designated play surfaces are no more than30 inches high; or
– There is at least 9 feet between equipment when adjacent designated play surfaces are more than30 inches high.

5.3.3.1.1 Fall height
The fall height of a log roll is the distance between the highest portion of the rolling log and the protective surfacing beneath it.