An Expert Guide on Tactile Walking Surface Indicators = It’s Types and Uses!
Did you know that tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) are making public spaces in Canada more accessible for visually impaired individuals? These handy tools help people navigate unfamiliar surroundings with confidence and safety.
But what exactly are TWSIs, and how do they work? In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at TWSIs — what they are, why they’re important, and how different types of TWSIs are used in different applications. Let’s get started!
Understanding Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs)
Tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) are textured ground surfaces strategically installed in various locations, such as building entrances, sidewalks, transit platforms, and other walking areas. These surfaces consist of standardized patterns, like Tactile warning strips, that are easily distinguishable by touch or with the use of a cane. They provide essential navigational cues to pedestrians who are blind or visually impaired, offering vital information about their surroundings and any potential hazards or changes in direction.
ISO tactile warning indicators are required in public places as per accessibility legislation like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
Types of Tactile Walking Surface Indicators
There are two main types of Tactile Ground Surface Indicators:
Attention/Warning TWSI: These indicators serve as a warning for potential hazards such as stairs, platform edges, intersections, or boarding zones. They feature tactile warning plates and single truncated domes in a square or radial pattern, alerting pedestrians to stop, assess the environment, and proceed with caution.
Guidance/Wayfinding TWSIs: These indicators provide directional cues along appropriate pathways of travel. These tactile directional indicators typically feature raised parallel bars or grooved lines that guide pedestrians along designated pedestrian routes.
Key Applications of Tactile Walking Surface Indicators
ISO tactile warning indicators are used in various indoor and outdoor locations, including:
Building entrances: Marking doorway thresholds
Lobbies and atriums: Directing visitors to key areas like reception
Retail aisles: Navigating large open floors
Transit stations: Guiding passengers to platforms, information kiosks, and ticket areas
Corridors: Defining walkways in expansive spaces
Sidewalk curb ramps: Alerting pedestrians to the transition from sidewalk to street
Transit platforms: Warning of platform edge drop-offs
Pedestrian crossings: Marking crosswalk areas on the road surface
Stairways and ramps: Indicating changes in levels
Parks and plazas: Guiding pedestrians across open spaces
Benefits of Tactile Walking Surface Indicators
TWSIs offer immense benefits by enhancing accessibility and safety:
Greater confidence to navigate unfamiliar environments
Fulfillment of legal obligations like AODA and building code requirements
Safer, accessible infrastructure for all pedestrians
Comfortable underfoot texture
Beveled edges to avoid tripping hazards
Slip-resistant qualities for wet conditions
Compliance with Canadian accessibility standards
Easy installation and low maintenance
Tactile Solutions from Tactile Canada
Welcome to Tactile Solutions, one of the leading Tactile suppliers in Canada. We take pride in offering a vast array of code-compliant Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TWSIs) from renowned brands like Access Tile®, Armor Tile®, Advantage®, and Ecoglo®.
When it comes to durability, safety, and compliance with AODA/CSA standards, our TWSIs are second to none. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your spaces with our exceptional TWSIs. Contact us now to learn more.