14.1.3. Placement Guidelines

• At pedestrian crossings – Hazard tactiles 300 mm before curb edge

This guideline specifies that tactile pavement indicators, which alert visually impaired individuals to potential hazards, should be placed 300 mm before the edge of the curb at pedestrian crossings. This spacing is crucial because it gives individuals enough time to detect the tactile surface and respond appropriately to the oncoming curb, ensuring a smoother and safer crossing experience.

Imagine you are at a busy street. Just before the curb, there are special tiles you can feel with your cane. These tiles let you know you are approaching the edge safely, like a warning beep from a car letting you know it’s reversing. This helps protect you from stepping off the curb unexpectedly.

• At platform edges – Hazard tactiles at least 600 mm from the edge

This guideline states that at train or bus platforms, the tactile indicators need to be positioned at least 600 mm away from the edge. This distance helps prevent accidents and ensures that visually impaired individuals do not inadvertently step closer to the platform edge where they could fall or risk being hit by oncoming trains or vehicles.

Think of it like a safety rope you might use during a hike. Just as the rope keeps you a safe distance from a steep cliff, the tactile tiles at the platform help keep you from going too close to the dangerous edge of the platform.

• At entry points of buildings – Directional tactiles leading from public transport points

Directional tactile indicators should be installed at entry points of buildings, guiding individuals from nearby public transport stops into the building. This principle ensures that once someone arrives via public transport, they have clear, tactile guidance about how to enter the building, enhancing their independence and navigational certainty.

Imagine you are at a train station trying to find your way into a large building. The ground underneath your feet feels different where the tactile indicators are, like a trail marked by stones in a park. This helps you know where to go, making it easier to find the entrance.

• In corridors – Directional tactiles guiding toward lifts, reception areas, and exits

In hallways and corridors, directional tactile indicators should be laid out to guide individuals toward critical points such as elevators, reception areas, or emergency exits. This guidance is vital for ensuring that individuals can navigate complex indoor environments independently and confidently.

Consider being inside a big shopping mall—a place you’re not familiar with. The tactile paths are like having a personal guide who gently leads you by the hand, helping you find the elevator or the exit quickly and safely.

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