Where Are Tactiles Required
Looking out for safety is paramount when it comes to having a business or during a new build of a home or property. There are many ways to keep people safe when in your venue including signs, lights and ground cover. Ground cover safety is important for pedestrians and those with vision impairments. For those who have trouble with their vision, using the feel of the ground beneath them can help them to know where there is danger or someone that they should not be entering. Ground surface tactiles are a great way to provide safety to those in your venue. But where are tactiles required? Is there a legal requirement to have them installed?
What are tactiles?
Tactile indicators are small domed cones that are added to the ground to help people to know when an area may be unsafe or is an area where they are not to enter.
There are different styles and colours of tactiles available for different situations. These can include individual tactiles, directional bars and tactiles made from different materials such as stainless steel.
Why do we need tactiles?
Tactiles are a great way to help pedestrians and those who are vision impaired to understand the environment that they are in.
These tactiles can be used in high slip areas where they provide a level of grip to reduce slips and falls. They can also be used as a way to show that an area is off bounds and not to be entered.
Studies from the 2010 Australia Bureau of Statistic showed that more than 600,000 people were blind or living with a vision impairment. In order to not discriminate against those with vision issues, it was made mandatory for tactile indicators to be used in public places.
Do I have to use tactiles at my venue?
In Australia there are two main legislations that are used to determine the requirements for tactile installation. These are the Design for Access and Mobility Part 4.1 and the Australian Building Codes.
All new builds are required to have tactile indicators installed during the construction phase.
Areas that are required to have tactile indicators include the start and end of staircases, in front of elevators and areas where there is a change in the ground height. Landings in the middle of staircases can also require them, depending on the height and length of the landing.
In outdoor settings tactiles should also be used on ramps and if leading towards a body of water.
How do I know which tactiles to use?
There are different requirements for different settings, and it is important to ensure you are complying with them. The Australia Standards can be purchased, and you can view the exact requirements for tactile ground cover. If you are using a builder when having a new venue built, ensure that they are complying with the standards and the correct tactiles are placed where needed.
If you are unsure on which tactiles to use, the team at Floorsafe are here to help. We can help you to choose the best product for your circumstances. We have a large range of tactiles available online now. With easy application and installation options available.
Can I add tactiles in areas that are not legislated?
Of course! If you feel there is any area in your venue that is of a concern for those with vision impairments, you can add tactiles to make it safer for them.
You can use individual tactiles, full ground cover plates or directional bars to help make the area safer for those entering it.
At Floorsafe Australia, safety is our number one priority, and we want to help you to deliver a safe and secure location to your customers, clients, friends and those passing by. For all your tactile needs, get in touch with the team today.