Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CPSI Practice Questions and Study Guide

The fall height for sliding poles accessed from platforms is defined as the vertical distance from the platform to the protective surfacing below. This measurement is essential for assessing safety because it helps determine the appropriate depth and type of impact-absorbing material that should be installed to reduce the risk of injury in the event of a fall.

By focusing specifically on the platform as the starting point and the protective surfacing as the endpoint, this definition ensures that the calculation is directly related to the potential fall hazard a child would face when using the sliding pole. Therefore, accurately measuring this fall height is critical for compliance with safety standards and ensuring that playground equipment maintains a safe environment for children. Other options do not correctly reflect the appropriate measurement of fall height in this context.