What to Know About Tactile Systems: Finding the Right One for Your Needs
Tactile systems are for those who are unable to see. It’s a method to keep them safe while they’re out in public. In some cases, the system is deemed necessary by law. It’s important to understand if a system is necessary and understand the options a person has when installing one.
Areas That Require a Tactile Warning System
The edges around bus stations and rails of a train track require a tactile alert system and so do curb ramps. Handicap ramps should also have texture to alert individuals as well. Even a change in the elevation on a public area requires texture. Other locations to place texture include:
- Entry and exit points of parking areas
- Entry and exit points of automobile paths
- Refuge Islands larger than six feet long
Materials Used for Tactile Systems
Typically, a system uses a homogenous glass and carbon-reinforced composite. Homogenous glass is a mixture that’s uniform in every way throughout the product. The carbon-reinforced composite portion is lightweight, yet durable.
The material of a system is colorfast and available in several colors. Additionally, the material is resistant to the sun and rain.
Choosing a Color for Tactile Systems
Although most people associated warnings with red or yellow, the law doesn’t require that tactile warnings have any specific color. State and federal laws only state that a business or responsible party has warning surfaces that contrast in color from the ground beside it. In other words, if a person is placing a tactile surface beside a gray surface, the only requirement is that the tactile surface is another color besides gray.
Sometimes, a city or municipality has a color scheme when it comes to their warning systems. For instance, red or yellow may mean to proceed with caution. On the other hand, blue often indicates a handicap-accessible area.
Special Considerations
When comparing products, individuals may choose between different textures. It’s also possible to compare products by the installation process. Certain options don’t require any drilling. This simplifies the installation process.
Strength is another factor to consider. It’s important to select a material that’s going to last, so someone doesn’t have to replace the tactile system before absolutely necessary. Another factor to consider is how long it takes the system to fade. If it doesn’t have a vibrant color, it affects the aesthetic appeal of the system, and it can make it difficult for people to see who have low vision. A person should also look into the warranties offered with different products.
A tactile system is useful and can help those with impaired vision, and even those in general, to identify dangers. Before deciding on one for a person’s particular needs, it’s vital to understand the different options available.
