Detectable warning tiles are distinct, colored and textured navigation signs that are integrated on the roads, pavements and transport terminals to help the blind evade the danger of stepping into traffic. Most countries require these tactile warnings to be installed in all the relevant areas and to conform to certain standards to avoid the chances of the blind missing the signs. Below are the qualities of the most efficient tactile warnings.
The standard texture consists of a pattern of truncated domes spaced out on the surface of the tiles in such a way that the blind can feel them easily as they walk. It was discovered that other designs were confusing the blind who mistook the tile as normal pavement texture which is very dangerous.
The most effective tactile indicators are also supposed to be clearly seen by all motorists and pedestrians using the road. Therefore, light colored warning tiles should be incorporated on dark colored roads and vice versa. Primary colors such as red and yellow are also common for they help even those that can see a little detect the surfaces from afar. Custom colored designs can also be made depending on the area they are applied but these should not confuse the road users.
It is also imperative that the warning slats be made of a durable material such as steel so that the truncated domes remain uncompromised for long. Some materials such as rubber and cast iron lose the required texture very fast due to wear and tear caused by motor and human traffic and also exposure to the weather.
The tiles should also be easy to install on the surface of the road and in this case replaceable tactile signs are most ideal. This is because at the end of the day they will definitely wear out and for convenience it should be easy to remove the worn out ones and replace them without tearing off the road. This is also important because building structures and regulations change overtime.
These signs should not be on slippery surfaces and should produce a particular sound underfoot or when a vehicle drives over it. To avoid getting onto the wrong side of law it is very important to adhere to the state policies regarding warning signs. The Americans with Disabilities Act is a case in point which requires that all warnings should have surfaces of truncated domes that are up to particular dimensions so as to attain sameness.
Cost effectiveness is also a major point for it is irresponsible to install expensive pieces on the road if less expensive and durable options exist. If certain detectable warning tiles bring in savings in initial cost, maintenance cost, installation and replacement cost, then such signs should be used as long as they serve the purpose effectively.
The standard texture consists of a pattern of truncated domes spaced out on the surface of the tiles in such a way that the blind can feel them easily as they walk. It was discovered that other designs were confusing the blind who mistook the tile as normal pavement texture which is very dangerous.
The most effective tactile indicators are also supposed to be clearly seen by all motorists and pedestrians using the road. Therefore, light colored warning tiles should be incorporated on dark colored roads and vice versa. Primary colors such as red and yellow are also common for they help even those that can see a little detect the surfaces from afar. Custom colored designs can also be made depending on the area they are applied but these should not confuse the road users.
It is also imperative that the warning slats be made of a durable material such as steel so that the truncated domes remain uncompromised for long. Some materials such as rubber and cast iron lose the required texture very fast due to wear and tear caused by motor and human traffic and also exposure to the weather.
The tiles should also be easy to install on the surface of the road and in this case replaceable tactile signs are most ideal. This is because at the end of the day they will definitely wear out and for convenience it should be easy to remove the worn out ones and replace them without tearing off the road. This is also important because building structures and regulations change overtime.
These signs should not be on slippery surfaces and should produce a particular sound underfoot or when a vehicle drives over it. To avoid getting onto the wrong side of law it is very important to adhere to the state policies regarding warning signs. The Americans with Disabilities Act is a case in point which requires that all warnings should have surfaces of truncated domes that are up to particular dimensions so as to attain sameness.
Cost effectiveness is also a major point for it is irresponsible to install expensive pieces on the road if less expensive and durable options exist. If certain detectable warning tiles bring in savings in initial cost, maintenance cost, installation and replacement cost, then such signs should be used as long as they serve the purpose effectively.
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