Play Area Inspector
About the Role
Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Play Area Inspector to join our Specialist Services team. You will play a key role in ensuring the safety and quality of over 150 equipped play areas across the borough, helping us provide safe and enjoyable spaces for children and families. Based at our Wade Road Depot, you will work within a small operational team responsible for inspections, maintenance, and repairs of play equipment and surfaces.
Main Purpose of the Job
1. Deliver high-quality inspections and maintenance of play areas in compliance with BS1176 and BS1177 standards.
2. Ensure all facilities meet current safety regulations and provide a safe environment for the public.
Key Responsibilities
3. Undertake scheduled operational inspections and record findings in line with statutory requirements (records retained for up to 21 years).
4. Identify and carry out maintenance and repairs to playground equipment and surfaces, ensuring timely action for public safety.
5. Liaise with the Council’s Insurance Officer and Legal Department in the event of litigation claims.
6. Source and purchase spare parts and equipment to maintain service delivery.
7. Operate specialist tools, plant, and machinery; apply chemicals such as pesticides in accordance with Codes of Practice.
8. Conduct ladder safety inspections and maintain compliance records.
9. Deliver in-house visual play area inspector training for operational staff.
10. Coordinate external contractors on council-owned play facilities.
11. Ensure compliance with Health & Safety requirements, ISO 9000 standards, and all relevant legislation including safeguarding.
What We’re Looking For
12. Ideally RPII accreditation for operational play area inspection (training can be provided if not held).
13. Previous experience in general maintenance or multi-trade work is highly beneficial.
14. Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with colleagues and contractors.
15. Good physical fitness and mobility to undertake manual handling duties in all weather conditions.
Full clean UK driving licence is essential
Appointment Type Permanent Position Full Time/Part Time Full-time Job Category Environmental Services Hours 37 (Monday to Friday) Is this a hybrid working role? No Salary Min £32,727 Salary Max £33,933 Interview date 14/01/2026 Closing Date 05/01/2026 Ref No 879 Documents
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What benefits do we offer?
At Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council we offer a wide range of employee benefits to recognise your valued contribution:
19. Generous annual leave allowance plus bank holidays
20. Local government pension scheme and Life Assurance
21. Salary sacrifice schemes for bicycles and electric cars
22. Access to discounts at nationwide retailers through our ‘B Rewarded’ perks discount site
23. Funded healthcare cash plan including optical and dental cover
24. Free flu vaccination vouchers
25. Access to a free and confidential employee assistance program
26. Support towards a variety of training, including professional qualifications, apprenticeships and wider technical and soft skill development courses
The council signs up to the Disability Confident scheme (formerly known as the ‘Two Ticks’ scheme). If you have declared a disability on the application form we can guarantee you an interview if you meet the essential criteria for the job.
Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of our community.