Strengthen Playground Safety with CPSI Certification
What Is CPSI?
The Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification is the most comprehensive training program for identifying and mitigating playground safety hazards. Offered through a partnership between the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the National Certification Board, and the Michigan Recreation & Park Association (mParks), this nationally recognized certification equips professionals with the tools to evaluate playgrounds in alignment with ASTM standards and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines.
Why CPSI Matters
CPSI-certified professionals play a key role in creating welcoming, well-maintained, and safe environments where all children and families can play and connect. This certification provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to:
Who Should Attend?
The CPSI course is ideal for professionals responsible for the planning, design, maintenance, or oversight of playgrounds and outdoor play spaces, including:
The Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification is the most comprehensive training program for identifying and mitigating playground safety hazards. Offered through a partnership between the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the National Certification Board, and the Michigan Recreation & Park Association (mParks), this nationally recognized certification equips professionals with the tools to evaluate playgrounds in alignment with ASTM standards and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines.
Why CPSI Matters
CPSI-certified professionals play a key role in creating welcoming, well-maintained, and safe environments where all children and families can play and connect. This certification provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to:
- Identify potential hazards in public playground equipment and surfacing
- Prioritize those hazards based on risk of injury
- Establish and manage an effective playground safety program
- Contribute to community well-being and reduce organizational liability
Who Should Attend?
The CPSI course is ideal for professionals responsible for the planning, design, maintenance, or oversight of playgrounds and outdoor play spaces, including:
- Municipalities and park agencies
- School districts and early childhood education providers
- Playground equipment manufacturers and installers
- Risk management professionals and insurance agencies
Upcoming CPSI Course Dates
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CPSI Course & Exam | Troy Community Center
April 22-24, 2026 | 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM Course & Exam $675 Course Only $525 Exam Only $150 |
Certification Pathways
To earn the CPSI designation, candidates must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent and pass the CPSI exam. Certification is valid for three years.
mParks offers two learning pathways:
In-Person Course & Exam
A structured, three-day experience combining expert-led instruction and hands-on learning.
Blended Online Course & Virtual Training
A flexible option combining self-paced online modules with live virtual instruction and a computer-based exam.
mParks offers two learning pathways:
In-Person Course & Exam
A structured, three-day experience combining expert-led instruction and hands-on learning.
- Day 1 & 2: In-depth classroom training covering playground safety inspection practices, maintenance planning, and national safety standards.
- Day 3: Proctored, paper-based CPSI examination
- CEUs: 1.5
Blended Online Course & Virtual Training
A flexible option combining self-paced online modules with live virtual instruction and a computer-based exam.
- Online Course: Detailed overview of ASTM standards and best practices
- Virtual Training: Live, instructor-led session offering real-world application of standards via Zoom (4 hours)
- Computer-Based Exam: Scheduled independently at a nearby testing center, with same-day results
- CEUs: 1.5
Recertification Process
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The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) recently announced important updates to the Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Recertification process. In response, mParks is taking a proactive role in supporting our members through these changes. We are committed to ensuring that Michigan park and recreation professionals have access to the education, resources, and opportunities needed to meet the new requirements.
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Beginning July 1, 2026, CPSI-certified professionals will have two pathways to maintain their certification:
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