Tactile indicators can be seen in various public places like railway stations, bus stops, airports, and also in many commercial establishments. Many people must be well aware of them however, many of you may not be fully updated with these TGSIs.
In this post, we will try to answer some of the important Tactile Indicators FAQ so that you can increase your awareness about them.
Normally what materials will be used for manufacturing these tactile indicators?
Tactile indicators can be made out of a range of materials, e.g.
- Brass
- Stainless steel
- Rubber
- Polyurethane
- Ceramics
- Porcelain
- Granite
- Precast concrete.
Discrete (individual studs), stainless steel, brass, and polyurethane tactile indicators are the most frequent tactile indicators used in Australia. These tactile indicators are extremely long-lasting, have well-suited physical features, and are made with slip-resistant tactile faces, making them suitable for tactile indication safety flooring systems.
Physical qualities such as excellent corrosion resistance and UV-stability, which prevents colour fading and ensures the tactile match luminance contrast standards for many years, contribute to their lifetime and appropriateness for use as tactile indicators..
What can be the basic difference between certain directional and warning tactile indicators?
Hazard Alert Tactile Indicators are raised truncated domes with a sloped side that provide a tactile indicator of a hazard immediately adjacent to the travel direction. These tactile indicators must have a base diameter of 35mm, a top tactile face diameter of 25mm, and a height of 4-5mm.
Directional Tactile Indicators are elevated bars with slanted edges that serve as a guide to show that a safe route parallel to the travel direction exists. These tactile must have a width of 35mm, a length of 285mm, and a height of 4-5mm.
Can TGSI be installed in a DIY way?
Yes, there are a few manufacturers that have designed them in such a way that it is very convenient to install them in a DIY way too. Such tactile is available in kit form which is properly sized and one can conveniently install them too.
How these TGSIs are perceived by people who are visually impaired?
People who are either blind or visually impaired will have to do the following:
- Find a certain crossing point
- Try to identify where the end of the footpath comes and the main roadway is about to arrive
- Decide the direction of the cross
- Decide when it will be safe to cross
- While crossing any road maintaining the orientation
- Finding the opposite kerb crossing point
Usually, a blind person can sense them by either their foot sole or through a cane that they use. People having poor vision can sense the differences in colours to understand that there is a certain change now coming. Usually, TGSI will be installed in a pair. Raised parallel bars available on directional TGSI will help them to change their direction of movement.
How much does TGSI cost?
Their price may always vary based on the type of materials used and also what kind of substrate is used on them. Based on the quantity ordered it is also possible to get discounts. Usually, their rates are specified based on their length and breadth.
