Newburyport Parks Manager Acquires National Certification as Playground Safety Inspector

NEWBURYPORT – Mayor Sean Reardon is pleased to announce that Parks Manager Michael Hennessey has become qualified as a Certified Playground Safety Inspector through the National Recreation and Park Association.

To become a Certified Playground Safety Inspector, Hennessey completed a two-day course covering a number of playground safety and security topics: Identification and prioritization of hazards; surface standards and guidelines; evaluation of playground equipment for site selection and age-appropriateness; design and layout; accessibility; best practices for inspections and record-keeping; and the CPSI Code of Professional Conduct.

Hennessey also passed a 100-question certification exam.

Hennessey, who has been Parks Manager for six years, oversees nine City playgrounds.

“The safety of the children using these playgrounds is a top priority of the Parks Department each year,” Hennessey said, “Maintaining safe and well-maintained playgrounds enables safe play and enjoyment.”

The non-profit National Recreation and Park Association is dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities, and supports the work of park and recreation professionals across the country.

“Congratulations to Mike for achieving this certification,” Mayor Reardon said. “By completing this course he has gained new and valuable skills and perspectives that will enhance the safety and security of our City playgrounds.”