Navigating the public environment can be a daunting and emotionally draining task for the visually impaired.

Usually, they are at risk of getting injured or lost.

To avoid such occurrences, tactile ground surface indicators (TGSI) are tools designed to assist visually impaired people in navigating public spaces easily and safely.

TGSI are mostly used in ferry terminals, train stations, bus stops, which can be hazardous for blind people.

Find out more about them below.

Types Of Tactile Indicators

There are mainly two types of tactile indicators, directional and warning tactiles.

• Warning tactile indicators alert or warn pedestrians of impending danger in their line of travel.

These are mainly used on stairs, escalators, railways, steps, and ramps to protect the visually impaired from dangerous obstacles.

• Directional tactile indicators, on the other hand, act as a guide for visually impaired people.

Usually, directional tactile indicators are installed as long rectangular strips on the floor. They work well to provide directional orientation and allow blind people to find the best and most accessible route.

You’ll mostly find directional tactiles in busy and noisy public transport areas.

Stainless Steel Tactile Indicators

Made from T316 grade steel, stainless steel tactile indicators remain the most popular tactile.

They come as directional bars, individual tactiles, or tactile warning plates. Since they are pretty durable and made from premium material, these tactile indicators are perfect for interior and exterior environments. They are mainly used for retrofitting existing applications.

Choosing The Right Tactile Indicator For Your Project

While tactile indicators allow the blind to move safely and independently in urban spaces, it’s important to note that precision is needed for their installation, quality, color, and size.

It is also essential to install tactile indicators to help the visually impaired accurately and consistently interpret the cues provided.

In selecting the right tactile indicators for your project, you must comply with the Australian product selections and installation process standards.

Below are some of the factors you need to consider when choosing the right tactile indicators for your project.

Dimensions

You need to choose tactile indicator plates that are manufactured to industry standards. This will ensure adequate prominence without the risk of tripping due to overlapping.

Slip Resistance

Your tactile plates’ slip ratings should be very low. This is particularly important because it helps reduce the risk of slips or falls.

Depending on the expected traffic levels and your project’s environment, our team at Floorsafe Australia will advise you on the best tactile indicator plates with the lowest slip resistance rating.

Premium Quality

The tactile indicator plates you intend to use on your project should be built to withstand harsh conditions like constant foot traffic, rain, wind, extreme UV levels, and heavy rolling loads.

Therefore, it’s essential to choose hard-wearing and durable tactile plates that will maintain their appearance and functionality for an extended period.

Poor quality tactiles will wear out faster, and the colors will fade, making them non-compliant with the expected safety standards.

The Bottom Line

When choosing tactile indicators, your top priority should be to provide safe movement for visually impaired people.

Be sure to partner with a reliable tactile indicator company to ensure your project’s success.