Which type of playground surface includes materials like wood chips and sand?

Loose-fill surfaces are composed of materials that are not fixed in place, allowing them to shift and compress under impact. Wood chips and sand are prime examples of loose-fill materials, providing cushioning for falls while also being relatively easy to install and maintain. These materials are popular in playgrounds because they can help reduce injuries by softening the impact of a fall, making them a preferred choice for many recreational facilities.

In contrast, unitary surfaces are solid and continuous, such as rubber mats or poured-in-place rubber, which create a smoother, more uniform surface. Composite surfaces typically combine different materials, like a mix of loose-fill and unitary options, to leverage the benefits of each. Synthetic surfaces consist of man-made materials, often providing durability and minimal maintenance but lacking the natural properties of loose-fill materials like wood chips and sand.