November 2022 - Parks & Recreation - 12

WE ARE PARKS AND RECREATION
Tips for Your In-Person Certified
Playground Safety Inspector Class
By Joann M. Robertson, CPSI, CPCU, ARM, CSP
A
s a longtime Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI), I
am often asked for advice about obtaining this certification,
which is offered by NRPA. The course concludes with a
proctored exam, which is not mandatory, but is necessary to
achieve the designation. Keep in mind, the class also must be renewed every
three years.
properly prepare for the in-person
CPSI class:
* Plan to take the class well in advance
by choosing the best date
and location for you.
* Open and read the study materials
when you receive them.
* Keep a running list of questions
that you need assistance with.
* Before attending the class, consider
trying
the
practice
tests
available on the NRPA website
(for a fee).
* Try to stay overnight near the
class, since you will want extra
time to study, instead of traveling.
Following
simple tips can help you properly
prepare for the in-person CPSI class.
The CPSI class is available three
ways: (1) self-study, and then travel
to an exam center to take the test;
(2) online; or (3) in person.
I prefer the in-person class because
it allows me to learn the latest
industry news, pose any questions
to
the
experienced
instructor(s),
participate in the on-site playground
inspection (weather permitting)
and meet new colleagues.
Here are my tips to help you be
* If you prefer to study in a group,
sign up for the same class as others
and coordinate staying overnight
at the same hotel, so you
can study in the lobby.
* Don't plan on working and learning
at the same time, since the
class is quite time consuming.
* Don't enroll in a class during
your profession's busy season.
* Remember to bring index cards,
pencils and a highlighter.
* Read over the instructions you
receive before class carefully,
so you will know what to bring
(e.g., proper identification for the
exam).
12 Parks & Recreation | NOVEMBER 2 0 22 | PARK S ANDRECRE AT ION . OR G
The Certified Playground Safety
Inspector (CPSI) certification program
is the most comprehensive
training program on playground
hazard identification and risk
management methods
offered
nationwide. By becoming a CPSI,
you will learn how to identify
hazards on public playgrounds
and playground equipment, rank
those hazards according to injury
potential and apply that knowledge,
as well as how to establish
a playground safety program. To
learn more, visit nrpa.org/CPSI.
* Pack business cards.
* Bring a jacket and casual shoes
for a trip to a playground.
* If unfamiliar with the class location,
scout it out before the
first day of class, especially since
class begins early in the morning.
* Sit at the front of the classroom
to see clearly and stay focused.
* Don't forget to bring your books.
* Packing snacks is never a bad
idea.
Once the class is completed, it
will take a few weeks to receive
the results from the exam. This
time frame ensures you have just
enough time to decompress from
the exam before you need to worry
about your grade.
Study hard and best wishes!
Joann M. Robertson, CPSI, CPCU,
ARM, CSP, is a Certified Playground
Safety Inspector and Certified Safety
Professional at Playground Medic
(joann@playgroundmedic.com).
http://www.nrpa.org/CPSI
November 2022 - Parks & Recreation

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