Everything you Need to Know about Tactile Walking Surface Indicators

Tactile walking surface indicators play a crucial role in making the facility accessible to pedestrians, especially those with visual impairment. The tactile attention indicators convey information to people about the surroundings through texture and sometimes sound. In most situations, contractors are aware of the importance of installing tactile indicators but are unaware of the code requirements for installing tactile walking surface indicators pathways in Toronto. From the color compliance to design basics and size requirements, contractors have to take various things into account.

One thing contractors must note is that the TWSI must provide high tonal contrast with the surrounding surface. Also, most of the indicators installed in the city of Toronto are made of cast iron. Cast iron develops a rusty color in the first year of installation, but the color will fade eventually as cast iron will develop a natural patina. The natural patina provides even greater tonal contrast with the sidewalk. Here are few points contractors have to take into account for installing the tactile indicator as per the required standards.

An overview of the TWSI

Do you know people impacted by blindness can more easily memorize and become familiar with space when logically planned and defined? This plays a crucial role in public spaces, including transit facilities and shopping areas. Contractors must use a consistent, logical, and straightforward layout for both the exterior and interior of any designed environment. Contractors must ensure that the path of travel is safe, accessible, and have distinct tactile qualities where pedestrians pass through the large open areas.

Also, large open areas can be difficult for visually impaired people to access without losing their orientation.

In such areas, contractors can install tactile walking indicators to define a safe, detectable, and the direct route across open areas. While planning the layout of the facility, contractors can use the following tips.

·     Halls and washrooms must be in the same location on each floor.

·     Contractors must group together essential features like washrooms, elevators, and staircases in one area of the building.

·     Washrooms must be available without having to go up or down a set of stairs.

Contractors have to take all these into account before installing tactile walking surface indicators in their projects.