Tactile indicators are essential safety equipment for businesses and public places. They are made from the finest materials with the latest technology. Areas with high human traffic like bus stations, schools, hospitals, and restaurants are made safer by installing tactiles.
Tactile indicators also provide a surface that people can feel underfoot or with a cane, leading to increased awareness of their surroundings. In particular, they’re helpful to people with visual impairments and also serve as a safety precaution for pedestrians.
Typically, tactile indicators are placed in contrasting colours with the ground, so they’re easier to spot.
Where Tactile Indicators are Commonly Used
You’ll find that most tactile indicators are used in the following areas:
Pedestrian Crossings
They provide an indication of where a safety crossing begins and ends. And also shows pedestrians where it’s safe to cross the road. With many people hooked to their devices, tactile indicators are a good way to draw peoples’ attention to the environment around them.
Retail Stores
Shopping malls and retail stores are filled with elevators and stairs. And as such, tactile indicators should be placed in these areas to ensure the safety of shoppers.
Public offices
Every organization should have workplace safety policies. Many office environments have employees and visitors moving about so having tactile indicators at entrances and stairwells can prevent a fall.
Parks
Most parks have uneven surfaces, rocks, and water bodies. Placing tactile plates strategically can alert users of any dangers.
Public Transport Facilities
There are always large amounts of human traffic in public stations. And with people constantly rushing, it’s necessary to put several safety measures in place to avoid accidents. These potential accidents are why tactile indicators are essential in public places.
They also help visually impaired people identify entry and exit points and areas leading to a lift or stairs.
Types of Tactile Indicators
There are 3 main types of tactile indicators:
Peel and Stick
Peel and stick indicators are high-quality UV stabilized polyurethane indicators with an aggressive resin adhesive that sticks to a clean, smooth surface. They are suitable for both indoors and outdoors.
Single Studs
These tactile indicators are suitable for commercial applications and come in different materials, including stainless steel and polyurethane. They are particularly useful in angled areas with a curved surface.
Tactile Plates
Tactile plates can withstand heavy traffic areas as they are hard-wearing and designed with a high slip rating. Tactile plates can be used both indoors and outdoors in new or existing buildings.
Things to Consider before Installing Tactile Indicators
Install the tactile indicators in the early stage of your construction to ensure optimum safety. After careful inspection and considering several aspects, such as the size and distance from potential hazards, installation should be carried out.
Analyze the environment and external conditions. Ensure the tactile indicators can withstand extreme weather conditions as the wrong installation can cause safety hazards.