Next publication of the Accessibility Guide: Thinking about users

26 May 2023 present

Objectives towards which the Association of Manufacturers of Urban Furniture and Playgrounds focuses (AFAMOUR)

There are still many different barriers that people with disabilities encounter, that prevent real socio-labor inclusion. Therefore, The companies involved must meet this challenge by making concrete commitments to the Universal accessibility.

The Spanish Association of manufacturers of street furniture and playgrounds, AFAMOUR, has a significant role in this regard, since, Not only brings together and represents these companies, but also participates in the lives of children and adults, contributing to offer them game experiences and challenges so that all people participate fully in all activities.

 

 

Therefore, Work is underway on a Accessibility Guide with the main purpose of offering users of collective spaces in cities, as well as those responsible for its design, Planning and construction, A rigorous and didactic document that reflects the Universal accessibility requirements.

Specifically, AFAMOUR wants to make the content of the new TMA/851/2021 regulation, of 23 July, regulating the rights of persons with disabilities and their social inclusion.

 

 

To do this, This Guide will focus on the following 10 Objectives:

  1. Promoting inclusive awareness in the processes of creating new public spaces that take into account all citizens.
  2. Helping to ensure equal opportunities, Non-discrimination and universal accessibility from the design designed for all people.
  3. Encourage the creation of activity spaces inclusive that are engaging and stimulating for users and companions.
  4. Allow all users can enjoy the experience of playing and doing physical exercise in the public space under conditions of equality.
  5. Enhancing family involvement Dynamic and equitable sharing of public play areas, Sports and leisure.
  6. Facilitate access, The stay and enjoyment of space to all users taking into account its multiple capabilities.
  7. Provide appropriate responses to the stimulation of motor skills, Cognitive, Sensory, social and emotional.
  8. Promote business innovation within the sector to make play areas and physical activity areas attractive and challenging.
  9. Encourage the development of professional ethics in compliance with universal accessibility and inclusion regulations for new facilities.
  10. Convey an optimistic and positive goal to the industrial sector and citizens: the inclusion of all users and companions.

All these objectives are encompassed in one main and the most important: that companies help spread The basic criteria of universal accessibility in new urbanized spaces.

AFAMOUR present 49 PARJAP congress

AFAMOUR participates in the 49 edition of the National Congress of Public Parks and Gardens held in Madrid

23 Feb 2023 present, Afamour

AFAMOUR was present, The days 15, 16 and 17 of February in the 49 Edition of the PARJAP Congress Organized by the Spanish Association of Public Parks and Gardens, in your 50 anniversary.

This edition was held in The Ship, The innovation center driven by the Madrid City Council, A meeting point open to all citizens, students, Entrepreneurs and investors. The inauguration of the Congress was attended by the Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida Navasqües.

 

AFAMOUR present 49 PARJAP congress - Almeida Mayor of Madrid

José Luis Martínez-Almeida Navasqües, Mayor of Madrid, at PARJAP Congress 2023

 

National Congress of Public Parks and Gardens

The AEPJP and the Madrid City Council presented this edition of the PARJAP Congress Madrid 2023, under the heading 'Parks and gardens, Natural health systems', Structured in four interesting thematic blocks: The green city and health, Well-being as an objective of urban planning, Therapeutic designs of green spaces and real experiences and solutions (through case studies).

20 Speakers from the 5 continents for an audience of up to 600 Congressmen in this 50 anniversary of the AEPJP.

AFAMOUR present 49 PARJAP congress - ASES XXI

Stand ASES XXI at PARJAP Congress 2023

Several of AFAMOUR's associates participated in different ways. ASES XXI E ISABA attended with their own stand; and other partners such as Kompan Spain attended the presentations of the Congress. All of them, At the forefront of the sector.

 

1. "The green city and health" and "Well-being as an objective in urban planning" at the National Congress of Public Parks and Gardens

Wednesday 15 of February began with the conference on "The green city and health" and "Well-being as an objective of urban planning". Thursday 16 of February we attended presentations related to "Therapeutic designs of green spaces". At last, on Friday 17 February the congress had expert speakers in "Real experiences and solutions: case studies".

On the first day we heard from the president of the World Association of Urban Parks (World Urban Parks), Jayne Miller. Also to the president of the social research scientist at the University of Washington, Kathleen Wolf, who focused his presentation on recent scientific findings about the important Health benefits of nature.

We also had the pleasure of listening to the director of the Center for Research on Open Spaces of the Universof Edinburgh, Catharine Ward Thmpson. He shared with us several Studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of green spaces in the health of citizens.

 

AFAMOUR present 49 PARJAP congress

PARJAP Congress 2023, in La Nave (Madrid)

 

 

2. "Therapeutic designs of green spaces" at the National Congress of Public Parks and Gardens

The second day of the PARJAP Congress 2023, the 16 February, It began with the multi-presentation around the thematic block "Therapeutic designs of green spaces" in which Rafael Olmedo was present, Patricia Tassari and Karim Palmlöf.

Rafael Olmedo, CEO of Geko Navasat, Presented Blind Explorer, one Sensory guidance app for the blind in parks and gardens, a whole Revolution in accessibility. It is a system that facilitates the enjoyment of green spaces to more than 285 million visually impaired. A project that has been awarded with nothing more and nothing less than 15 International Awards.

Patrizia Tassari also took part in the presentation, Full Professor at the University of Bologna and coordinator of the PhD program in 'Health, safety and green systems'. This is a PhD program with a unique focus in Italy. Summarize the content of this program in 3 Topics: the Urban health and healthier cities, Urban space planning and resilient green systems, and finally the Safety and sustainability of spaces.

 

AFAMOUR present 49 PARJAP congress - ISABA

Miren Jimenez Azpilicueta, President of AFAMOUR and General Director of ISABA

 

Finally we could also enjoy the presentation of Karim Palmlöf, Agricultural Engineer. Karim gives as an example in his presentation the therapeutic garden of healthy aging 'The Senses' in Coslada, a population where at least the 36% of citizens are older than 55 years, and therefore have very different needs than younger people.

During the day on Thursday 16 In January we also attended other presentations on "Green areas as an instrument at the service of health: the case of Madrid" by Francisco Muñoz García, General Director of Water and Green Areas of the Madrid City Council. Or "Healthy routes in the city of Madrid" by Mercedes Ceinos Arcones, reference of the Alas program, among many others throughout the day.

 

3. "Real experiences and solutions: case studies" and conclusions of the National Congress of Public Parks and Gardens

Finally, the PARJAP Congress closed on Friday 17 of February with the presentation of case studies and the conclusions of the three days of presentations.

The Main idea To highlight of these intense days has been The importance of green infrastructure helps citizens reduce stress, improve attention and mood, as well as facilitate physical activity, thanks to games, walks or the same sports practice. This type of infrastructure also contributes to Mitigating climate change and to ensure the well-being of all life on the planet.

We can emphasize that those Densely populated neighborhoods have few parks, and these are barely connected.

And of course, emphasis has been placed on Need to enable accessibility for all citizens, as well as making them participants in the management of these spaces.

To all these conclusions is added the importance of the Good practices and reference models from other countries in the Green infrastructure management that were exposed throughout this last day of the PARJAP Congress.

 

AFAMOUR present 49 PARJAP congress

PARJAP Congress 2023, in La Nave (Madrid)

Recycled and recyclable materials, Protagonists of urban furniture and playgrounds

12 Jan 2023 present, Afamour

Energy saving, Environmental contribution and increased safety are the main benefits of components with a second service life

The use of polyethylene from recycling provides safety and durability to play spaces

 

Trends in the manufacture of urban furniture components and playgrounds have evolved in recent years towards recycled and recyclable materials. In Afamour, our partners are committed to the use of new components with a second life for the benefit of the environment and in line with the Circular Economy.

We defend that the mixture of recycled plastic with recycled polyethylene in the materials of our children's play areas gives these spaces greater durability. We highlight among its main benefits the resistance and the low need for maintenance.

Next to this material, We also point out the use of recycled rubber through old tires that become padded floor and that contribute to safety and reduce the risk of physical damage or injury by playground users..

For the construction of playgrounds with recycled material, required, depending on the dimensions, since 300 until 1.300 kilograms of recycled plastic.

The innovative recycling process

In recent years, Recycled plastic profiles have replaced as materials used in the installation of playgrounds and urban furniture others such as steel and wood. The use of this material involves a previous process of which the partners of Afamour are part.

First of all, Waste managers collect plastic containers from yellow bins for separation and shredding. Then, They are transformed into compressed plastic to build the profiles with different sizes, Thicknesses and shapes. The subsequent union of these pieces allows us to manufacture urban furniture, Children's play areas and even training areas.

The reuse of wood is also part of this recycling process and Circular Economy that we defend in Afamour. A material that also has very similar characteristics in durability and robustness.

Respect for the environment, The contribution to the sustainability of the planet and energy savings, and the commitment to more durable materials that provide greater safety to users of playgrounds and urban furniture are part of the objectives and commitments of Afamour. For this reason., Our partners defend, Create and use recycled and recyclable materials in their products.

Afamour, aligned with the fulfillment of the SDGs

The Sustainable Development Goals (.ODS) of the United Nations are present in the work of service to society and the guide of good practices of the Spanish Association of Manufacturers of Urban Furniture and Playgrounds

Health and wellness, the introduction of new technologies, The development of inclusive cities, and sustainable production and management are values and objectives that define Afamour

 

United Nations established at the end of 2015 a set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (.ODS) to eradicate poverty, Protect the planet and ensure the prosperity of the planet. In Afamour, the Spanish Association of Manufacturers of Urban Furniture and Playgrounds, We act daily convinced of the need to Meet those goals linked to our professional work and our service to society.

Ensure health and well-being, reducing inequalities, Developing inclusive cities, introduce new technologies, and sustainable production and management are values and actions that define Afamour and that are aligned with the SDGs of the Agenda 2030 of the United Nations, As can be seen in our guide '12 Good practices. Recommendations for success in creating a children's play area and training area'.

Different Sustainable Development Goals They coincide with our work methodology and commitment to citizenship. Among them, Several stand out Initiatives to make cities and communities of people inclusive, Resilient and sustainable, with the creation of Sustainable green spaces and healthy mobility on the horizon of 2030.

Next, We detail individually how Afamour's work is aligned with different Sustainable Development Goals. We talk about the following SDGs: Health & Wellness (3), Industry, Innovation and Infrastructures (9), Sustainable Cities and Communities (11) and Responsible Production and Consumption (12). All of them are located, to different extent, Within our social and professional commitments.

 

.ODS 3 Health & Wellness

The Agenda 2030 establishes as one of its Sustainable Development Goals the "Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being at all ages is essential for sustainable development". At Afamour we meet this goal through different measures linked to the location and environment of the park or training area:

  • The connection with natural spaces has a great added value for leisure and health of users.
  • Natural volumes stimulate physical activity and are a source of play.
  • The creation of attractive play areas with challenges for the most active children promotes physical activity and motivation.
  • Training areas and children's games must allow movement, physical activity and multiple recreational actions.
  • The practice of sport and outdoor training in the areas of physical exercise brings health and well-being to citizens.

.ODS 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructures

The Inclusive and sustainable industrialization is related to the introduction of new technologies and the efficient use of resources. To do this, from Afamour we influence the choice of materials of the playground or training area. A bet that guarantees the Lifespan of the playground or sports area depends on the installation of suitable materials.

Also, Our companies devote a great deal of effort to the use of new technologies. The design and use of Innovative materials in playgrounds consolidates Afamour's commitment to the advancement of the industry, innovation and infrastructure that meets the needs of the population.

 

.ODS 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

This Sustainable Development Goal includes a specific target where it states that "It is necessary to provide universal access to green areas and safe public spaces, inclusive and accessible", especially children and companions, and the elderly and disabled. The design and installation of playgrounds and training areas that we carry out from Afamour responds to this transcendental demand, as demonstrated by the campaign 'Inclusive playgrounds, a play area for everyone'. (link)

At this point, Afamour has a series of criteria to ensure inclusion in sustainable cities:

  • Offer of playful activities with dynamic movement so that all users have the ability to develop their physical skills, Social, Cognitive, emotional and creative.
  • Guaranteed access to the main element of the leisure area for all audiences.
  • Introduction of elements that encourage young people to play accompanied.
  • Simple and intuitive to use, easy to understand, regardless of user experience.

In final, It is about Increasing inclusive urbanization in cities, with children's play areas and fitness areas that favor their use by all citizens.

.ODS 12 Responsible Production and Consumption

Along with the factor of inclusion in playgrounds and training areas, sustainability is another important point for Afamour. Within this objective, It is framed The sustainable production of our partners. Business management It allows you to do more and better with fewer material resources and, In this way, A number of related goals are achieved:

  • Increasing efficiency and decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation.
  • Environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks.
  • Significant reduction of waste generation through prevention activities, Recycling and reuse.

All these our recommendations for the creation of optimal children's play areas, sports and training align with the Sustainable Development Goals to Promote quality spaces, Green, accessible and inclusive. Like this, Defend Efficient public investments in spaces that facilitate play, Physical activity and outdoor sport, with the aim of Promote the health and well-being of families within our commitment to sustainability and industrial innovation.

Afamour, Committed to sustainability and the future of the planet

13 Dec 2022 present, Afamour

Respect for the environment is one of the maxims of the Spanish Association of Manufacturers of Urban Furniture and Playgrounds to maintain the well-being and progress of present generations

Our partners guarantee the use of sustainable materials and the use of eco-friendly products, and incorporate systems to optimize resource and waste management

These actions are, In addition, aligned with the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals (.ODS) linked to Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), and Responsible Production and Consumption (12)

 

Sustainability and the future of the planet represent one of the Afamour's main commitments (Spanish Association of Manufacturers of Urban Furniture and Playgrounds). Manufacturing, Installation, Principles of use and maintenance of these recreational spaces and personal training areas must Comply with the basic rules of respect for the environment. Our partners incorporate these practices into their daily actions, aligned with several of the Sustainable Development Goals (.ODS) of the Agenda 2030, within the United Nations Global Compact.

As stated in this voluntary initiative promoted by the United Nations, The economic and social progress achieved over the last century has been accompanied by environmental degradation. that is jeopardizing the very systems on which our future development depends.. In this context, Afamour's actions with sustainability and respect for the environment acquire special relevance.

As a sign of our commitment to the future of the planet and social and economic progress, Detail sustainable actions by Afamour partners within the framework of business management:

  • Use of sustainable materials: meet current needs without compromising the capacity of future generations and ensure a balance between economic growth, Care for the environment and social welfare.

 

  • Manufacture of Eco-friendly products, with environmental benefits:
    • Reduce the carbon footprint
    • They are free of toxic components
    • Save energy
    • They don't pollute
    • They are biodegradable and recyclable
    • They are composed of recycled materials

 

  • Implementation of Environmental management systems that optimize resource and waste management, and reduce negative environmental impact.

 

 

We meet the SDGs

LThe actions we develop from Afamour In the manufacture of playgrounds and urban furniture are, In addition, aligned with the fulfillment of several of the Sustainable Development Goals (.ODS) of the Agenda 2030 of the United Nations. In particular, these are the SDGs linked to the Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), and the Responsible Production and Consumption (12).

In a scenario where Global carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) have increased by almost a 50% since 1990 and where Cities and metropolitan areas, as detailed in the Agenda 2030 of the United Nations, represent around the 70% of these emissions, We believe that it is more necessary than ever to contribute to sustainability. In this way, Afamour partners contribute to achieving one of the number SDG targets 11, linked to Sustainable Cities and Communities. These are Increase inclusive and sustainable urbanization in cities, with children's play areas and fitness areas that respect the environment So what, In addition, promote their use by all citizens.

Also, in Afamour we contribute to the goals contemplated in SDG number 12 thanks to the Sustainable production of our partners. Its business management allows us to do more and better with fewer resources of materials and, In this way, Increasing efficiency and decoupling economic growth from environmental degradation.

We are also achieving other SDG targets linked to Responsible Production and Consumption.. Including, the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and the Significant reduction of waste generation through prevention activities, Recycling and reuse.

To all these actions, within the business management of the associates that make up Afamour, Our Commitment to quality in the products and services offered to the client. A commitment that is part of our code of ethics and that Contributes to sustainability, Respect for the environment and the future of the planet.

Learning by playing, Main objective of playgrounds

13 Dec 2022 present, Afamour

Playgrounds play an educational role in society with the development of motor skills, cognitive and personal relationship

At Afamour we work to ensure that users of these play areas can interact closely and develop their skills to the fullest

Playgrounds are leisure spaces that transcend the recreational and, as we defend in Afamour, They fulfill an educational function in society. They do it especially at the earliest ages, when the development of motor skills, Cognitive and personal relationship in humans is paramount.

From the Spanish Association of Urban Furniture Manufacturers (Afamour) We consider that guaranteeing gambling is a duty and a commitment to society, as well as a normative obligation as reflected in different agreements of international institutions.

Scientific evidence, In addition, Provides numerous benefits of playground play activities. Among them, We highlight the following:

  • Encourage curiosity
  • Provides joy, pleasure and satisfaction
  • Encourages the desire for self-improvement
  • Provides self-confidence
  • It is the opportunity to express opinions and feelings
  • It favors the internalization of norms and patterns of social behavior
  • Stimulates the development of physical functions, Psychic, affective and social

 

To this list is added the reinforcement of family unity through the interaction of play in playgrounds. Aware of this, at Afamour we work on the design of children's play spaces, where parents, mothers and children can relate closely and without limiting the decision-making capacity of the little ones by their parents.

Behind solving challenges in a playground, There are a number of benefits that we list below.:

  • Controlled risk-taking allows them to excel physically, mentally and emotionally.
  • They learn to make judgments about their abilities and to make reasoned decisions about the risks involved.
  • On playgrounds, They also face social challenges, Moral and intellectual
  • Strengthen self-esteem and confidence by overcoming challenges

Types of playgrounds according to their function

One of our main objectives, as references in the manufacture of playgrounds, is to contribute to the development of children. We claim that play is essential to stimulate their motor skills, Sensory, Cognitive, creative and social. Depending on the objectives and skills fostered by the different playgrounds, We establish two categories: Recreational game and educational game.

Next, We know the functions of each one:

Recreational play

  • Stimulates imagination and creativity
  • Develops interaction with others
  • Promotes better relationships and more autonomy
  • Helps develop motor and intellectual skills
  • Provides a necessary release through physical activity
  • Allows children to invent their own rules, so they gain confidence, feel competent in their activity, progress based on their own goals
  • Contributes to the well-being of children

 

Educational game

  • Develops cognitive abilities: perception, concentration, memory, reasoning, Risk assessment, etc.
  • Builds conative capacities: motivation, initiative, Creation of strategies, Ability to convince others, self-esteem, etc.
  • Stimulates communication skills, Speaking in group situations, interact with others
  • Helps reduce the notion of restriction that is often associated with school
  • Allows children to accept frustration and challenge rules
  • Encourages the development of communication skills, to express themselves in group situations, to interact with others, to learn to organize and improve their ability to work in a team

Objectives of playgrounds according to different ages

Consider, In addition, that the personalisation and adaptation of the playground to users are essential to stimulate their abilities and abilities as much as possible. In this sense, We focus on the different age groups that make use of these play spaces and the specific benefits that these areas bring to each of them..

 

Early childhood

The game, either in a daycare center or a preschool, Should provide opportunities for very young children for motor and sensory experimentation. With pleasure as the motivating force of the game, Very young children put considerable effort into playful activities and are rewarded by gaining confidence in how they grow and develop..

 

Infancy

Children of 4 to 8 years to improve their motor skills, Psychomotor, sensory and social. The playful equipment used should be based more on movement with different levels of difficulty to overcome and thus facilitate the discovery of new physical sensations. Childhood is also a time when children begin to impose the first challenges to meet and compare themselves with other children.. Therefore, Physical activity becomes a means of expression, Interaction and communication.

 

Preadolescence

The game must offer situations for personal or collective challenges, which leads to more complex learning experiences for children. In addition, plays a role in their development as people, allowing them to know themselves better and encourage them to progress and share with other children.

Through a variety of situations, The game must stimulate all its motor functions: reach higher, go faster… They become more skilled at crossing, When launching, when hanging or balancing.

 

Adolescence

The game has to meet the needs of this age group for physical activities and sports. Should help improve your physical condition: Motor skills, Force, flexibility, cardiorespiratory fitness, Balance, Agility, coordination. It should also contribute to their psychological well-being: humour, self-esteem, Feeling of personal efficacy, Reduced stress and anxiety. Also, The game has to improve your attention levels, Concentration and memory.

It is demonstrated with this article that there are numerous benefits that the use of playgrounds brings to children, both physically and intellectually. From Afamour we work decisively to guarantee and encourage the development of capacities and skills in different ages.

 

“The child does not play to learn, but learns when you play. Play constantly nurtures a child's development, In the same way that development continually nurtures its game.”

Jean Epstein – Social psychologist

Play in inclusive playgrounds, A universal right of children

14 Nov 2022 present, Afamour

UNICEF's Convention on the Rights of the Child and the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child uphold that children should fully enjoy games and recreations

Exists, In addition, Regulations that guarantee safety and accessibility in playgrounds, such as Order TMA/851 of the Ministry of Urban Agenda and UNE-EN standards 1176 and UNE 170001

The installation of playgrounds in urban environments Complies with children's right to play, claimed by Afamour and contemplated in different international standards. The different activities that take place in these recreational spaces, that must be accessible and inclusive to the public, They favor cognitive learning and the development of psychomotor skills at an early age, regardless of the ability of each of the people.

The Children's right to play It is present in standards such as UNICEF Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), The articles of which state that “All children with mental or physical disabilities have the right to enjoy a full life”, and the Declaration of the Rights of the Child promoted by the UN (1959). In the latter, It is included that “The child should fully enjoy games and recreations, which must be oriented towards the ends pursued by education”. Also, The principle continues 7 of this statement, “Public administrations shall endeavour to promote the enjoyment of this right”.

With this international regulatory framework and the subsequent approval of the Sustainable Development Goals -Exist five SDGs linked to the benefits of inclusive playgrounds (3, 4, 5, 10 and 11)-, Administrations are increasingly aware of the need to bet on play spaces for children that guarantee accessibility and inclusion, and end the barriers and segregation that could occur with some of the recreational elements installed in these public play areas. In Afamour they have known for a long time about these demands and have been pioneers in the projection of playgrounds with useful areas for all.

 

 

What rules specifically regulate accessibility in playgrounds?

Today, Administrations and manufacturers of playgrounds must comply A multitude of Legislation regarding technical regulations and legal regulations About the installation and maintenance of these play spaces. One of the laws of national application is the Order TMA/851, of 23 July 2021, by which the Ministry of Urban Agenda develops the technical document of basic conditions of accessibility and non-discrimination for access and use of urbanized public spaces.

This ministerial order regulates in its article 8 a series of Aspects to ensure accessibility in children's play sectors:

  • One in five elements will have universal accessibility criteria, must be in children's games of dynamic type or that generates movement when introduced inside.
  • The Access to children's play areas, as well as each element with universal accessibility criteria, and exercises from an accessible pedestrian route.
  • They will be introduced Chromatic and texture contrasts between game and exercise elements […] to promote the orientation and perception of users.
  • Along with the game elements that must have universal accessibility criteria, will be foreseen obstacle-free spaces where a circle of 1,50 meters in diameter at least.

Coexists with this order the UNE-EN standard 1176 What Regulates the safety of playgrounds and enter the Concept of 'easily accessible'’ with the following definition: “What Does not require a special skill to access the equipment and that users can move freely and quickly around the computer, No other consideration for the use of hands and feet”.

The standard should also be taken into account UNE 170001 of universal accessibility, with a first part that collects the DALCO criteria for facilitate accessibility to the environment:

  • Ambulation o Move from one site to another To access places and objects following circulation zones, Approximation spaces, Rest areas, Changes of plane and pavements with non-slip characteristics.
  • Apprehension o action of grasping, trap, turn, Manipulate or tap items thanks to Elements for the Location correctly signposted, design suitable for use by any user or Auxiliary staff when required.
  • Localization of places and objects through Elements for signalling, lighting, Pavement and auxiliary services.
  • Communication by means of Non-interactive media (Signs in paper form, audiovisual media, Illuminated signs, acoustic and tactile) and interactive (computer, optical reader or personnel competent in sign language).

This normative exhibition around playgrounds shows that Protections and recreational value are conditioned by safety standards. As an example, where a child goes up from 10 years in a wheelchair A one-year-old child must also walk up.

Precisely on this development of legislation, the president of Afamour, Look at Jimenez, details that “More and more local administrations are valuing children's areas as spaces that provide an important service to citizens and that they must be valid for everyone”, A fact that “is encouraging work on new regulations”. “This is the way forward”, Adds, “and each time accessibility will become more essential".

"If we can't put an end to our differences, Let's help make the world a good place for them."

John F. Kennedy

Inclusive playgrounds, A play area for everyone

Afamour defends a design of these spaces with a global vision that guarantees accessibility to children with diverse physical and intellectual abilities

Inclusion, Accessibility, Learning and fun. These four values are essential when projecting, Develop and open to citizens a playground, as they defend from Afamour. The Spanish Association of Manufacturers of Urban Furniture and Playgrounds considers that These spaces must respond to the recreational needs of the youngest while allowing them to put their physical and intellectual skills into practice, regardless of the degree of capacity of each of them. Proof of this is the Recent campaign that they have promoted and that bears the title 'We all like to play'.

The commitment to accessibility, as explained by the president of Afamour, Look at Jimenez, must be done from “A global view”. In this sense, Jimenez argues that “No accessible item exists, but children's spaces must present different types of accessibility, each adapted to the different children and their needs”, so as not to segregate individuals. Applying this consideration in the design of an accessible playground, The space will count from a playful point of view with elements arranged for the interaction of a heterogeneous set.

In this sense, Inclusive play spaces go beyond accessibility needs and universal design solutions. In addition, aim to facilitate a variety of play experiences and challenges for all people to participate socially and fully in all activities. offered, your way, with a sense of being part of something. It's about encouraging An environment where coexistence and diversity are respected and valued.

This is reflected in the Guide '12 good practices. Recommendations for success in the creation of a children's play area', prepared by Afamour in collaboration with the Spanish Association of Public Parks and Gardens (Aepjp). A document that underlines that inclusion in these spaces will allow Users can enjoy the game and the area in the company of other children and families, without segregating anyone according to their abilities.

 

Criteria to ensure accessibility and universal design in playgrounds

Have A reference document around playgrounds allows urban furniture manufacturers and local administrations to ensure universal accessibility and design. In this sense, Afamour's guide of good practices establishes a series of recommendations to ensure game elements for everyone:

  • Offer multiple recreational activities at ground level and include some with dynamic movement. They have to allow the experimentation of sensations and constitute challenges that encourage them to develop their skills and excel.
  • Ensure that the main element of the leisure area have at least A way to access and enjoy together so that no child feels left out.
  • Choose elements that favor that children can play accompanied, safely and participating in the Excitement of enjoying together.
  • Include game elements designed so that develop physical skills, Social, Cognitive, emotional and creative.

To these recommendations of Afamour, A series of Principles for designing accessible play spaces:

  • Equitable use, where people with diverse abilities can participate without feeling segregated.
  • Flexibility of use to ensure that all children, depending on your capabilities and preferences, have the opportunity to experience different levels of difficulty.
  • Simple and intuitive to use, easy to understand, regardless of user experience, Language ability, and the level of knowledge and concentration at the time of the game.
  • Perceptible information that allows users to explore, interact and participate as effectively and independently as possible.
  • Fault tolerance, guaranteed by having the elements to minimize dangers and errors contemplated in the UNE-EN technical standard 1176.
  • Low physical exertion that allows its use efficiently, with elements that make it easier for users to participate minimizing unnecessary effort and fatigue.
  • Size and space for access and use in conditions of comfort, Security, equality and autonomy for all people, even those with motor skills, sensory or cognitive different.

Also, Different studies carried out in collaboration with entities of people with disabilities respond to what an inclusive playground should ensure:

  • The Accessibility outside and inside of the park.
  • Resources and Alternatives for access and use of existing elements so that everyone can participate and play according to their abilities.
  • Variety of sensory and playful experiences with physical benefits, Cognitive, emotional and social.

With the application of these principles and the professional experience of its associates, Afamour ensures accessibility of playgrounds, as well as the interrelation between children and their families in these spaces. A reality confirmed by the 'Analysis of user profile of playgrounds in Spain', carried out by the Technological Institute of children's products and leisure, and what shows that the 81% of parents with children of 0 to 3 years play with them in the park. The percentage is 66% for parents with children of 4 to 7 years, and the 44% for those of 8 years or more.

Ensuring accessibility in playgrounds is essential. They are spaces that have become places of learning, Fun and conviviality, that become part of the urban scene and transcend, sometimes, to the cultural field. “This new vision has to do with very broad concepts of citizenship and this is where inclusion comes in.”, reasons Miren Jimenez.

The variety of play experiences and challenges allows people to participate socially and fully in an environment favorable to coexistence and diversity

Afamour has the 90% of fitness areas that are installed and certified in Spain

The installation in public spaces of workout and calisthenics areas increase physical activity among citizens with exercises for all levels.

 

Convert urban furniture in public spaces into elements that favor physical activity and increase healthy habits among the population is one of the objectives of the Outdoor installation of fitness parks and calisthenics. In Afamour are well aware of this reality, A reality of which more and more local administrations and neighborhood entities are part. Proof of this is that We have installed the 90% of this type of areas that are certified in Spain.

In recent decades, The commitment of cities to the promotion and promotion of healthy values has increased the implementation of fitness parks Outdoor. An action that is part of the agenda of good practices of many entities and that is aligned with the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development of the United Nations, as the Objective 3 'Health and Wellness’.

To this institutional commitment is added the change of habits among citizens. In this sense, the researcher Pepa Casado D'Amato collects in the book 'SmartCity Trends'’ that there is a “growing interest in well-being, Physical health and sports activities in the city”. It also affects that favoring interpersonal relationships – in this case, through the areas of sport- “It plays a fundamental role in the integral development of the person."

 

Health Benefits

The practice of outdoor physical exercise It involves a series of Complementary benefits to the sports activity itself. In this sense, a final degree project on 'Design of an outdoor sports facility’ of the Polytechnic University of Valencia, points out that by combining exercise with the body's exposure to the sun, Dopamine levels are boosted, Serotonin and endorphins. A statement that is supported by a artículo científico de ‪Jo Thompson Coon published in 2011 and which shows that “Training outdoors can improve well-being and self-esteem”.

In addition, Outdoor training favors continuity and adherence to physical exercise, As the researcher points out, Marianne Lacharité-Lemieux in a New academic publication. “Several studies show that you tend to exercise outdoors for longer or more than between four walls”, Adds.

 

The selection of fitness elements

Afamour, As a reference association of urban furniture companies, has a Guide to recommendations for success in creating a children's play area and training area. Among the 12 Good practices, There is a section dedicated to the selection of the elements of Fitness.

The publication de Afamour establishes a List of fitness equipment depending on the users and the purpose:

  • Street work out, Suitable for trained youth and teenagers, with an interest in the practice of calisthenics
  • Cross fit, that combines several disciplines and allows the training of all user groups
  • Cardio, with level of effort adapted and open to the training of users with different states of physical fitness
  • Maintenance fitness for seniors, Designed for disease prevention and socialization

Also, The guide states warns about a number of Common mistakes when installing a training area:

  • Choose sports elements with Inadequate designs with no understandable indications for use that do not favor real and efficient physical exercise
  • Situate Sports and training elements in a children's play area
  • Place sports and training items in an inappropriate area, No shade, Drinking water or lighting, since it is advisable to encourage the practice of sport in all seasons and the greatest number of hours of the day
  • Select Sports and training items for use by elderly people with inappropriate designs and not very inclusive

 

These recommendations from Afamour are a perfect example of the commitment to quality and excellence of our associated companies, that add up to the 90% type of fitness areas installed and certified in Spain.

Afamour shares in Symposium Urban Solutions the good practices in the creation of urban parks

15 Sep 2022 present, Afamour

Look at Jimenez, president of the Association, will deliver a lecture at this reference event, which is celebrated in Vigo del 20 to the 22 September

Afamour partners such as Ases XXI also participate, Iberian HPC, Kompan Iberia and Sanpe Engineering

The appointment, organized by the Cluster of Renewable Energies of Galicia, revolves around four thematic blocks: towns, lighting, energy and mobility

Urban Solutions Symposium, congress that takes place in Vigo del 20 to the 22 September, will be attended by Afamour, the Spanish Association of manufacturers of street furniture and playgrounds. Look at Jimenez, president of the Association, will intervene in the session 'Cities. Urban Parks’ of this event, which aims to become a reference event for sectors such as energy, lighting, mobility, urban infrastructure, the facilities and everything related to the cities.

The President of Afamour will deliver the conference 'Guide of good practices for the creation of a park’, Wednesday 21 September, from the 9.30 hours. A space for reflection and dissemination in which Miren Jiménez highlight the importance of ensuring user safety and security in urban parks, commitment to excellence and quality standards, and developing the capacity to adapt to technological changes and cultural.

After the intervention of the president of Afamour, it will be the turn of the lectures given by members of the Association. In the framework of the session 'Cities'. Urban parks', the technical director at Ases XXI, Jose Maria Fariñas, will address 'The importance of accessibility in Playgrounds and training areas', whereas the commercial director at HPC Ibérica, Eloy Bossom, share your professional and business experience in the conference 'Design of inclusive parks. Criteria'.

They will also intervene in this space of Symposium Urban Solutions, the commercial director at Kompan Iberia, Jaime Lopez Moreton, which shall pronounce the presentation 'Outdoor Fitness as an engine of sustainable cities', and the technical director at Sanpe Ingeniería, David Santos, will intervene with the presentation 'Safety in children's areas'.

The best solutions for today's cities

As transmitted from the organization of Simposium Urban Solutions, city-related solutions have become increasingly important in the conscience of the leaders of the cities and in the manufacturers' roadmap, engineering and service companies.

This congress has made a interesting program of presentations and an exhibition area. In this way, Professional, companies, administrations and the general public will be able to know the best solutions that exist for the cities of the present and the future, and with spaces dedicated to networking.

The choice of the city of Vigo as the headquarters of Simposium Urban Solutions is aligned with the commitment of agents from multiple sectors to be at the forefront of all this knowledge and that strives for its implementation in all the development actions of its city.

Symposium Urban Solutions is organized by the Cluster of Renewable Energies of Galicia. Cluergal is an open and multidisciplinary organization in which technologists have a place, Promoters, distributors and in general entities related to the renewable energy sector and energy sustainability.

See the Urban Solutions Symposium program.

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