Introduction
This standard is divided into six sections.
The first section is a general introduction to the document and identifies the main objectives of maintaining hard areas as:
- to preserve the surfaces in sound structural condition,
- to keep them safe for users,
- to maintain a good appearance.
These objectives could readily be applied to grass and sports surfaces as well.
Section 2
This section is essentially making the reader aware of a range of a range of surfacing materials and structures, including concrete, paving, gravels, macadam, walls, fencing and furniture. Further reading would be made by referring to the quoted British Standards for most items.
Sections 3 & 4
Maintaining hard areas and their maintenance objectives:
The hard areas are divided into three categories, A, B and C to represent different standards. This allows flexibility for a manager in determining the most appropriate standard for their particular situation.
The recommended treatment of stains on hard areas is well covered, as is the application of salt with recommendations ranging from 10 - 40 g/m² depending upon the stated requirements.
Playgrounds are also briefly covered, however, the maintenance of proprietary safety surfaces should be in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
Sections 5 & 6
Walls, fences, other structures and outdoor lighting:
Descriptions of how to prepare surfaces prior to a wood preservative or surface protection being applied for timber structures; the repair of metal fencing and rendering of brickwork.
The maintenance of outdoor lighting should mainly be undertaken by specialist electrical contractors, however, it is suggested in the Standard that the cleaning and replacement of lamps could be the responsibility of a landscape manager as these tasks should not be too onerous or require specialist contractors.
Annex
A comprehensive table provides a check list for inspection and remedial action for the range of elements included within this Standard.
In a similar way to the checklists in Part 1 of the Standard, the inspection and remedial action check list could be readily adapted for use as an assessment sheet as well.
Summary
Most sport and leisure environments have some form of hard area, fence or wall present. This British Standard provides a useful overview of the subject area and is an ideal resource for anyone wishing to provide more objective information within a maintenance brief or specification.