Study of Accidents from Playing Swing of Primary Students in Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

This study is based on survey research. The objectives of this study were: (1) to study accidents and injuries in children caused by playing swing; (2) to study threats and problems faced by children during playing swing; and (3) to propose recommendations for reducing accidents and injuries from playing swing. The study period was January to March of 2022. Participants were 400 children with ages ranging from 7 to 12 in Nakhon Ratchasima province. The tool used was a set of questionnaires, which were used to collect data on accidents during swing and behavior. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The results are as follows: first, most children played swing five days per week, and the number of accidents increased with age. Second, the most common accident was falling off the swing (68.38%), and causes of accidents were an inappropriate size of the swing seat, incorrect play, and teasing on the swing. The most common type of injury found was an abrasion (38.02%), followed by a bruise (12.39%). Third, the most serious problem found was a slippery seat (27.84%) and a small seat (27.84%). Most swing parts were made of metal. The swing seat became more slippery because of the humidity in the air. Lack of strength for driving a swing was a major obstacle for children aged 7–8 years old. As recommendations from this study, basic swing design guidelines included using materials with no sharp points for the swing seat, designing swing dimensions to accommodate children’s anthropometry, keeping distance from the swing to the walk way, and other playground equipment for reducing the chance of accident.