frame and grates - playground areas ??

[ZmarkZ]

I have a site (proposed daycare facility) with two to three proposed storm structures (48" catch basins) in the backyard area. The structures would be picking up 12" diameter roof drains (RCP) and surface drainage. The catchbasins would have 2-foot diameter cast iron frame and grates to pick up surface drainage.

Since these 24" grates would be in a playground, anyone know of any options (i.e. HDPE frame and grate, plastic coverings/filters, rubberized coatings, smaller grate that would fit in a 4' diameter structure etc.) to not using a cast iron frame and grate. Owner is concerned that a child will trip and hit his head on the iron grate.

I appreciate any suggestions. Thanks!

 

[jimbo]

Discuss with the frame/grate supplier.

I have heard of adding rubber to the casting, but do not know details.

 

[KRSServices]

Without seeing the site, other than recessing into the ground (about an inch or so below finished grade - but then a trip hazard is created) about the only suggestions I can make is to disguise or isolate the inlets. If located in a parking lot, parked vehicles wil discourage too much horseplay (usually out of bounds as a play area).

Can the site be graded such that surface runoff can be redirected (via swales or grading) to a more suitable location? Can the roof runoff be channelled into a buried pipe with cleanout and then into a cb elsewhere onsite, instead of a CB in the play area? KRS Services

http://www.krs-services.com

 

[KThomson]

Hello -

I have designed inlets in play areas in the past and in a current project. I try to keep them small and make sure to have locking ones to avoid a child opening them up.

ADS has nyloplast inlets with plastic or metal grates for pedestrian areas.

http://www.ads-pipe.com/us/en/products/gratesprod.shtml

I'm sure there is someone out there who knows more about this - or a better solution - but that's my two cents.

Kate

 

[dicksewerrat]

There are many suppliers of 'fibergalss' reinforced grating.
At one time the city of Mpls. Sewer div. used this material as a safety grate inside large, deep shaftholes. Call them to get their supplier name and go from there. the grates can be cut to any size. then you can fasten them down to the structure. 612-673-5625,5629