Purchasers of play equipment will find invaluable advice in the Association of Play Industries’ (API) brand new 2014 membership directory.

Established 30 years ago this year, the API represents 70 manufacturers, installers, designers and distributors of outdoor and indoor play equipment and safety surfacing. The association is committed to quality, standards, service and safety. Its members are the UK’s leading experts in play provision and provide play areas, playgrounds, play equipment and resources to schools and early years settings, local authorities, house builders and developers, parish councils, holiday parks and campsites, tourist attractions and leisure venues. They provide bespoke play solutions that meet clients’ specific objectives, never ‘off-the-shelf’ packages.

The new API Member Directory provides practical, jargon-free information and advice for play buyers including:

• A full listing of approved members with contact details and web addresses;

• Why it pays to use an API member company;

• The health benefits of active play and its role in increasing physical activity;

• Latest information on safety surfacing;

• Details of PlayFair 2014, the UK's largest annual trade event for all those involved in the selection, purchase, upkeep and replacement of children's play equipment and safety surfacing.

The Directory also includes a Foreword from Youth Sport Trust Chair, Baroness Sue Campbell, about the vital importance of tackling the child inactivity epidemic

By choosing a cut-price play operator, play buyers risk inferior products, poor quality installation and service, and over-sold promises. Insisting on API membership provides peace of mind because members: 

• Are experienced, comply with BS EN 1176 and relevant safety standards, and abide by a strict Professional Code of Conduct;

• Are reputable, trustworthy, financially stable and deliver long-term value;

• Provide generous, credible promises on guarantees, warranties, repairs, maintenance and delivery of spare or replacement parts;

• Demonstrate how designs meet objectives and deliver positive outcomes for children;

• Demonstrate added value like stakeholder consultations;

• Provide third party test certificates, references and costs for independent post-installation inspections.

Due diligence is recommended when exploring a play company’s reputation, including trading history and credit checks, to save money and inconvenience. API members undergo rigorous credit checking and regular financial performance monitoring so that customers can be sure they are working with a stable, reputable, trustworthy partner. Feedback on member companies’ performance is actively encouraged and a free technical dispute mediation service is available to all clients buying from association companies.

API Chairman Michael Hoenigmann says: “As rising physical inactivity levels threaten child health and well-being, there has never been a more important time for active play. The API campaigns at the highest levels for recognition of the value of play in policy. It is also committed to delivering high standards and quality from its member companies. By making API membership mandatory in play procurement processes, customers can be sure that they will receive exceptional service.”

For further information about the Association of Play Industries, its members and how the API can help plan a play project, contact: Deborah Holt, API Association Manager, tel: 024 7641 4999
or email api@api-play.org