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Quizzes > Society & Culture

CPSI Practice Test: Check Your Playground Safety Knowledge

Quick CPSI practice exam with instant results and explanations.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Kavitha HawaldarUpdated Aug 28, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for CPSI practice exam quiz on playground safety on a sky blue background

This CPSI practice test helps you review playground equipment and surfacing rules, spot common hazards, and build confidence before the exam. Get exam-style items with instant feedback and clear explanations. For deeper prep, try our cpsi test questions, explore the child care safety quiz if you work in early childhood settings, or broaden your safety skills with the OSHA accident investigation quiz.

What does CPSI stand for?
Certified Public Safety Instructor
Child Protection and Safety Initiative
Child Play Safety Institute
Certified Playground Safety Inspector
CPSI is the acronym for Certified Playground Safety Inspector, a credential administered by the National Recreation and Park Association in partnership with the Playground Safety Institute. These professionals assess playground equipment and surfacing to comply with safety standards. The certification process covers ASTM and CPSC guidelines to reduce injuries.
Which organization publishes standards for playground equipment safety?
ISO
UL
WHO
ASTM International
ASTM International develops and publishes voluntary consensus standards for materials, products, systems, and services, including playground equipment. The CPSC refers to ASTM F1487 for public playgrounds. Compliance with ASTM standards is widely accepted as best practice.
What is the maximum allowable fall height for toddler playground equipment under ASTM standards?
72 inches
30 inches
48 inches
60 inches
ASTM F1487 specifies that equipment intended for children 23 months to 24 months must not exceed a maximum fall height of 30 inches. This limit reduces the risk of serious injury from falls. Supervisors should verify age-appropriate signage and equipment grouping.
Which of the following is a key component of a playground use zone?
Benches for supervision
Shade structures
Fencing around the perimeter
Surfacing with proper impact attenuation
A use zone is the area under and around playground equipment where a fall or exiting might occur, and it requires proper impact-attenuating surfacing. ASTM standards define both the dimensions and the surfacing type for use zones. This area minimizes the severity of injuries from falls.
What is the minimum depth of loose-fill surfacing under swings with a 7-foot fall height?
18 inches
36 inches
12 inches
24 inches
ASTM F1292 impact attenuation tests recommend a minimum of 18 inches of loose-fill surfacing (e.g., wood fiber) for a 7-foot critical fall height. Adequate depth is crucial to cushion falls. Regular maintenance is needed to maintain depth.
Which hazard is described by gaps that can trap a child's head?
Head entrapment
Impact zone
Pinch point
Shear hazard
Head entrapment hazards occur when openings in playground equipment can capture a child's head, leading to strangulation or other injuries. ASTM F1487 specifies maximum and minimum dimensions to prevent entrapment. Regular inspections help detect and correct such hazards.
At what interval should a typical playground be inspected by a CPSI for general compliance?
Daily
Every five years
Monthly
Annually
Monthly inspections by a qualified CPSI help identify wear, damage, and surfacing degradation before serious hazards develop. ASTM F1487 recommends routine checks alongside annual in-depth assessments. Frequent monitoring ensures equipment remains safe between major evaluations.
Which material is considered best for engineered wood fiber surfacing?
Sawdust
Recycled softwood pallets
Landscape mulch
Virgin kiln-dried hardwood fiber
ASTM F2075 specifies that engineered wood fiber should be virgin, kiln-dried hardwood to achieve consistent impact attenuation and minimize moisture issues. Recycled or processed materials can compact or mold. Proper material selection maintains safety margins.
What is the maximum allowable spacing between guardrails on elevated platforms under ASTM F1487?
3.5 inches
8 inches
12 inches
6 inches
ASTM F1487 stipulates that openings in guardrails or barriers must prevent a 4-inch sphere from passing through and should not allow a 3.5-inch passage to avoid head entrapment. This ensures small children cannot slip through or get stuck. Compliance reduces serious injuries.
Which of the following is NOT a common loose-fill surfacing material?
Engineered wood fiber
Pea gravel
Rubber tiles
Sand
Rubber tiles are a unitary surfacing system, not a loose-fill material. Loose-fill materials, such as sand, pea gravel, and engineered wood fiber, shift on impact to cushion falls. Each type has specific depth and maintenance requirements.
Which age group does ASTM classify as 'primary' playground users?
0 to 23 months
5 to 12 years
2 to 5 years
13 to 18 years
ASTM F1487 categorizes primary users as children aged 5 to 12 years, reflecting their size, strength, and developmental stage. Equipment designed for this group can have greater heights and complexity than toddler or preschool areas. Designing age-appropriate zones reduces misuse and injuries.
What does ADA stand for in playground accessibility context?
American Disability Access
Accessible Development Act
Accessible Design Association
Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates federal accessibility requirements, including playground access features for children with disabilities. ASTM has companion standards (F1951) for accessible surfacing. Compliance ensures inclusive play environments.
Which of these is a key inspection tool for measuring surfacing depth?
pH meter
Anemometer
Thermometer
Depth gauge
A depth gauge precisely measures the thickness of loose-fill surfacing to ensure it meets ASTM and CPSC depth requirements. Maintaining the correct depth is crucial for impact attenuation. Inspectors should record measurements at multiple points.
What type of hazard is created by protruding hardware or sharp edges?
Impact Hazard
Sharp/Pointed Hazard
Contact/Entrapment Hazard
Shear or Crush Hazard
Sharp/pointed hazards result from unshielded bolts, exposed metal edges, or broken components that can cut or puncture users. ASTM F1487 requires all hardware to be covered and edges to be rounded. Regular checks help mitigate these risks.
How wide must an accessible route be according to ADA Standards?
30 inches
24 inches
42 inches
36 inches
ADA Standards require a minimum clear width of 36 inches for accessible routes, allowing wheelchair passage. Routes on playgrounds include paths to equipment and transfer platforms. Wider spaces may be needed for turning areas.
What is the primary purpose of playground signage?
Decorate the playground
Mark emergency exits
Advertise sponsors
Communicate age-appropriate use and safety information
Signage helps supervisors and caregivers understand age ranges, proper use, and maintenance contacts, reducing misuse. ASTM F1487 recommends posting age group and safety warnings. Clear signage supports compliance and injury prevention.
What test device is used in ASTM F1292 to measure impact attenuation of surfacing?
Drop hammer
Spring impactor
Headform drop tester
Pendulum tester
ASTM F1292 specifies using a headform drop tester fitted with a load cell to simulate head impact and measure G-max and HIC values. This device ensures surfacing materials cushion falls effectively. Regular lab testing verifies field performance.
Which parameter is NOT measured by the headform drop test under ASTM F1292?
Peak deceleration
G-max
Coefficient of friction
Head Injury Criterion (HIC)
ASTM F1292 testing measures G-max (peak deceleration) and HIC to assess surfacing impact attenuation. Coefficient of friction is unrelated to drop testing and pertains to slip resistance. Understanding these metrics ensures proper surfacing selection.
What is the minimum slope allowable for wheelchair access ramps on playgrounds?
1:12
1:20
1:6
1:8
The ADA stipulates that maximum running slope for ramps is 1:12 (8.33%), ensuring safe wheelchair access. Steeper slopes increase risk of tip-over or loss of control. Proper handrails and landing dimensions are also required.
Which ASTM standard covers accessibility requirements for playground surfacing?
ASTM F1492
ASTM F1292
ASTM F1487
ASTM F1951
ASTM F1951 specifies the testing methods to measure wheelchair maneuverability on playground surfacing, ensuring accessibility. It evaluates how surface firmness and stability affect wheelchair performance. This complements safety-focused standards.
What is the maximum allowable Critical Fall Height (CFH) for public-use playground equipment?
8 feet
10 feet
12 feet
6 feet
ASTM F1487 sets the maximum CFH for public-use equipment at 12 feet (3.66 m) to limit impact force in falls. Surfaces must attenuate impact for that height. Higher equipment requires specialized surfacing systems.
In ASTM surfacing tests, what does HIC stand for?
Head Injury Criterion
Hazard Identification Code
High Impact Compression
Head Impact Coefficient
HIC (Head Injury Criterion) is a measure of the potential for head injury based on acceleration-time history during impact. Lower HIC values correspond to safer surfaces. ASTM F1292 limits HIC to acceptable levels.
What is the purpose of a fall height label on playground equipment?
Mark ownership
Show date of installation
Inform maintenance and inspection of surfacing depth
Identify equipment manufacturer
Fall height labels indicate the highest accessible point from which a user could fall, guiding inspectors to verify surfacing depth. Workers use these values to confirm impact attenuation requirements. Clear labeling prevents errors during maintenance.
Which of these is a critical factor in preventing tripping hazards in surfacing?
Eliminating abrupt level changes greater than 1/2 inch
Covering with rubber mats
Using darker colored materials
Installing drainage grates everywhere
ASTM F1292 and ADA guidelines require no abrupt changes in level over 1/2 inch within accessible paths to prevent trips. Transitions should be beveled and smooth. Regular inspection addresses settling and displacement.
What is a common method to verify depth of unitary surfacing like poured-in-place rubber?
Color inspection
Measuring moisture content
Tactile feedback test
Core sampler to measure thickness
Core sampling extracts a small section of unitary surfacing to confirm installed thickness meets design specifications. Unitary products must maintain depth consistency for impact attenuation. Lab reports and on-site checks ensure compliance.
What documentation should a CPSI maintain after every inspection?
Warranty certificates
User attendance logs
Equipment sales invoices
Detailed inspection report with corrective actions
A CPSI should record inspection findings, identified hazards, recommended repairs, and completion dates for corrective actions. Proper documentation demonstrates compliance and liability management. Reports aid asset management over time.
Which ASTM standard covers protective surfacing performance?
ASTM F1292
ASTM F1936
ASTM F2373
ASTM F2075
ASTM F1292 details performance requirements and test methods for impact attenuation of playground surfacing materials under simulated fall conditions. It sets criteria for G-max and HIC. Frequent retesting verifies on-site conditions.
What surfacing depth is recommended under a 10-foot critical fall height using engineered wood fiber?
30 inches
18 inches
24 inches
12 inches
For a 10-foot fall height, ASTM F1292 and CPSC guidelines recommend 24 inches of engineered wood fiber to achieve adequate impact attenuation. Maintaining depth prevents compaction and exposure of subsoil. Monthly checks and raking preserve depth.
Which of these is a sign of surfacing degradation in loose-fill materials?
Exposed subgrade at high-traffic areas
Stable moisture content
Complete absence of debris
Uniform coloration
Exposed subgrade indicates that loose-fill surfacing has compacted or been displaced, reducing impact protection. Inspectors should replenish material where depths fall below standards. Raking and topping up maintain safety performance.
What is the typical maximum allowable vertical clearance under overhead rings?
14 feet
10 feet
8 feet
12 feet
ASTM F1487 specifies a maximum of 10 feet for overhead rings and similar play components to limit fall distance. Equipment exceeding this height must have specialized surfacing. Keeping components within these limits reduces injury risk.
When testing loose-fill surfacing, what ambient temperature range must laboratory tests replicate according to ASTM F1292?
70°F - 100°F
50°F - 70°F
32°F - 50°F
60°F - 90°F
ASTM F1292 requires impact attenuation testing at an ambient temperature range of 60°F to 90°F to reflect typical outdoor conditions. Temperature affects material stiffness and cushioning properties. Lab tests outside this range may not represent field performance.
Which federal regulation mandates playground accessibility for public agencies?
OSHA General Duty Clause
Americans with Disabilities Act Title III
Clean Air Act
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires programs receiving federal funds to be accessible, including playgrounds. While ADA Title II and III also address accessibility, Section 504 specifically ties to federal funding. CPSIs must understand both for public agencies.
How is dynamic coefficient of friction relevant to playground safety?
It gauges headform rebound height
It determines slip resistance of unitary surfaces
It calculates fall height
It measures impact attenuation
Dynamic coefficient of friction assesses how a surface resists slipping when in motion, important for poured-in-place rubber and mats. ADA guidelines require minimum slip resistance to prevent falls. Measuring ensures surfaces remain safe when wet or soiled.
Which test method measures the resiliency of loose-fill surfacing over repeated impact events?
ASTM F1292 - Repetitive Impact Test
ASTM F1951 - Wheelchair Accessibility Test
ASTM F355 - First-Aid Stroke Pile Test
ASTM D3884 - Abrasion Test
ASTM F1292 includes procedures to assess surfacing performance under repeated headform drops, verifying that impact attenuation remains acceptable over time. The standard ensures materials do not compact excessively with use. Laboratories simulate multiple impacts to predict field durability.
What is the maximum variance in cross-slope allowed on an accessible transfer platform?
1:12
1:20
1:48
1:10
ADA Accessibility Guidelines limit cross-slope on transfer platforms to 1:48 (2%) to ensure wheelchair stability and safe lateral transfers. Excessive slope can cause chairs to tilt. Inspectors verify slope with a level or digital inclinometer.
Which factor most significantly affects long-term performance of wood fiber surfacing?
Ambient noise levels
Color of the fiber
Moisture content and drainage
Surrounding vegetation type
Moisture content influences compaction, mold growth, and decay of wood fiber surfacing. Poor drainage leads to saturation and reduced impact attenuation. Good site grading and drainage management extend service life.
What document details hazard levels and recommended corrective action priorities?
User injury log
Risk management plan
Manufacturer's warranty
Purchase order
A risk management plan classifies hazards by severity and likelihood, guiding inspectors on which issues to address immediately versus monitor. It helps allocate maintenance resources effectively. ASTM and CPSC publications suggest ranking hazards systematically.
What is the allowable maximum deflection under a concentrated load for guardrails according to ASTM F1487?
6 inches
4 inches
8 inches
2 inches
ASTM F1487 requires guardrails and barriers to resist a concentrated load with no more than 2 inches of deflection to ensure structural integrity. Excessive movement indicates weakening or improper assembly. Inspectors test by applying force at the top rail.
Which ASTM standard covers performance and labeling of impact-attenuating playground surfacing materials?
ASTM F1292
ASTM F2173
ASTM F2075
ASTM F1951
ASTM F1292 addresses performance requirements for impact attenuation and labeling of loose-fill and unitary surfacing materials. It specifies critical fall height values that must be printed on packaging. This label guides installers and inspectors.
What is the maximum height for transfer steps under ADA guidelines?
13 inches
11 inches
15 inches
9 inches
ADA Standards limit transfer step height to 11 inches from the ground to improve accessibility for wheelchair users. Steps higher than this can create barriers. Inspectors confirm measurement consistency across equipment.
Which factor must be considered when locating playgrounds near water bodies?
Fishing access
View aesthetics
Potential for flooding and drainage
Water sports equipment
Playgrounds near water require careful grading and drainage controls to prevent erosion, standing water, and submerged hazards. Flooding can compromise surfacing and create drowning risks. FEMA and CPSC guidelines recommend setbacks and barriers.
What is the required minimum vertical clearance under monkey bars according to ASTM F1487?
9 feet
8 feet
10 feet
7 feet
ASTM F1487 specifies a minimum overhead clearance of 9 feet for horizontal ladders and monkey bars to prevent head impacts. Adequate clearance reduces collision risk during play. Inspectors check site obstructions such as tree limbs.
How often should loose-fill surfacing be raked and replenished in high-use areas?
Monthly
Annually
Every five years
Weekly
Monthly maintenance ensures loose-fill surfacing remains at the required depth and distributed evenly, especially in high-traffic zones. Raking prevents compaction and displacement. Some sites may require more frequent attention in extreme climates.
What is the recommended inspection frequency for conducting a detailed formal audit by a CPSI?
Monthly
Quarterly
Every two years
Annually
Formal, comprehensive inspections by a CPSI are recommended annually to evaluate structural integrity, surfacing performance, and compliance with evolving standards. Monthly inspections address routine maintenance, while annual audits capture deeper issues. Documentation supports risk management.
Which of the following is most critical when evaluating corrosion on metal playground components?
Color change of paint
Alignment of parts
Extent of metal loss and section thinning
Noise when tapped
Corrosion that reduces metal thickness compromises structural strength and can lead to failure under load. Inspectors measure section loss or pitting depth. Surface discoloration alone may not indicate critical damage.
Calculate the minimum amount of engineered wood fiber (EWF) needed for a 20 ft x 30 ft use zone at 24 inches depth. How many cubic yards are required?
30 cubic yards
40 cubic yards
20 cubic yards
50 cubic yards
Volume = area (600 sq ft) × depth (2 ft) = 1,200 cubic ft. Divide by 27 to convert to cubic yards: 1,200/27 ? 44.4, rounded conservatively to 40 - 45 cubic yards. Suppliers often recommend ordering extra for compaction.
Which ASTM test measures coefficient of restitution for poured-in-place playground surfacing?
ASTM D3574
ASTM F1951
ASTM F2373
ASTM F1292
ASTM F2373 describes methods for measuring cushioning performance and coefficient of restitution (bounce) for poured-in-place surfacing. It ensures the surface reduces impact while avoiding excessive rebound. This is key for user safety and comfort.
When conducting a surfacing HIC test, what is the allowable maximum difference between two individual drop readings at the same point?
15%
5%
10%
20%
ASTM F1292 allows no more than a 5% variance between repeated HIC readings at the same test location to ensure data consistency. Larger variances indicate irregularities or testing errors. Reliable results guide surfacing approvals.
What statistical confidence level is typically used when reporting surfacing test results under ASTM standards?
80%
95%
99%
90%
ASTM standards often employ a 95% confidence level for reporting test results, ensuring that repeated tests will fall within specified limits. This statistical threshold balances rigor with practicality. Laboratories include confidence intervals in their reports.
For a multi-level play structure, how should a CPSI adjust fall height measurements when surfacing has settled by 2 inches from the original installation depth?
Increase measured fall height by 2 inches for surfacing loss
Subtract 2 inches from fall height
Double the fall height adjustment
No adjustment required
Settling reduces impact-attenuating depth, effectively increasing fall height above the surfacing. CPSIs must add the loss to the critical fall height to confirm surfacing still meets requirements. This ensures accurate safety assessment.
When analyzing injury data trends, which metric best identifies equipment posing the highest risk?
Cost of repairs after incidents
Average age of damaged components
Total number of reported incidents
Incidence rate per 1,000 user-hours
Incidence rate per 1,000 user-hours accounts for exposure time and usage frequency, providing a normalized risk metric across equipment types. This helps prioritize safety improvements. Raw counts can be misleading without usage context.
Which method provides the most accurate assessment of in-situ resilience of poured-in-place rubber surfacing?
Soil moisture test
Core extraction only
Portable impact hammer test
Visual depth gauge inspection
A portable impact hammer measures rebound height and stiffness of unitary surfacing without extensive lab equipment. This field-friendly method assesses resilience and identifies areas needing replacement. Core extraction alone does not capture dynamic response.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand CPSI Practice Exam Format -

    Recognize the structure, question types, and scoring approach of the CPSI practice exam to optimize your study plan and time management during the official CPSI test.

  2. Identify Playground Safety Hazards -

    Detect common equipment and surfacing hazards using certified playground safety inspector practice exam criteria, enhancing your ability to uncover risks on public-use playgrounds.

  3. Analyze Scenario-Based Questions -

    Break down realistic inspection scenarios and apply key safety standards to determine the correct responses on the CPSI practice test.

  4. Apply Standards and Guidelines -

    Implement ASTM and CPSC playground safety standards in evaluating equipment, surfacing, and installation compliance as you prepare for the CPSI exam.

  5. Evaluate Corrective Actions -

    Assess recommended maintenance and repair options based on certified playground safety inspector practice exam principles to ensure ongoing playground safety.

  6. Build Test-Taking Confidence -

    Develop strategies for managing challenging questions, reducing test anxiety, and achieving a high score on your final CPSI exam.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Fall Height & Safety Surfacing -

    Review the maximum fall height allowed for playground components - usually 8 feet for primary play structures - and ensure surfacing meets ASTM F1292 impact attenuation tests. A handy mnemonic is "3-9-1" to recall 3 - 9 inches for loose-fill depths in wood chips, sand, or rubber mulch. Consistent surfacing thickness boosts safety scores on your cpsi practice exam by reducing injury risk and demonstrating compliance.

  2. Use Zone & Equipment Spacing -

    Recall that fall-use zones extend at least 6 feet beyond all equipment edges and 9 feet where swings are present, as detailed in the CPSC Public Playground Safety Handbook. The memory trick "6-9 Safe Lines" helps you map out clear zones during your cpsi practice test. Proper spacing prevents collisions and is a frequent topic on the cpsi exam's scenario-based questions.

  3. Head Entrapment Hazards -

    Memorize that any opening between 3.5 and 9 inches poses an entrapment danger per ASTM F1487 standards. Use "3½-to-9" as a quick recall tool when evaluating panel cutouts or climbing features during your certified playground safety inspector practice exam. Accurate identification of hazardous openings is crucial for high marks on the cpsi test's factual sections.

  4. Component Integrity & Maintenance -

    Familiarize yourself with the monthly and annual inspection intervals recommended by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and IPEMA accreditation guidelines. The acronym INSPECT (Inspect, Note, Secure, Plan, Evaluate, Correct, Track) streamlines your review process for the cpsi practice exam. Highlighting maintenance protocols in essays demonstrates depth of knowledge on the cpsi exam.

  5. ADA Accessibility Requirements -

    Understand the ADAAG criteria - 36 inches minimum route width and a maximum slope of 5% for accessible paths to play features - as outlined on ADA.gov. A simple "36-5" mnemonic ensures you recall these specs during the cpsi practice test or official cpsi exam. Emphasizing compliance supports inclusive play and earns points on scenario-based items.

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