Tactiles

What are Tactiles?

Tactiles or Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI’s) are sometimes known as tactile paving and is a system of surface bumps that are felt when walked on to assist visually impaired pedestrians to navigate the approach to a ramp, step or stairway in public spaces. Studded tactiles have anti-slip properties but are not designed to be used as an anti-slip product.

Tactiles come in two main types – ‘hazard’ (dots) style to warn of a change in floor level and the directional (bar) style tactiles indicate the direction to walk in.

Manufactured to comply with Australian Standards AS/NZS 1428.4.1:2009, tactiles must have 30% colour contrast with the surface they are mounted on and must be positioned correctly to conform with Australian Standards. Tactiles need to be installed the full width of the walkway, start 300mm from the ramp or step and extend 600mm deep in the direction of walking. Tactiles for landings are more technical and depends on the handrail involved.

TACTILE STUD INSTALLATION GUIDE

1. Using drilling templates as a guide, drill the correct diameter holes into the substrate to a minimum depth of 12mm

2. Once the holes have been drilled, remove the templates. The holes and substrate must be thoroughly cleaned and dust free prior to installation of the tactiles.

3. Once all surfaces are thoroughly clean, dispense the correctly mixed adhesive into each hole leaving a blob of adhesive on the surface.

4. Apply the tactiles with rear fixing stud into position and firm into place. Check that full transfer of the adhesive to the stud and back of the tactiles has occurred.

5. Any excess adhesive that is exposed should be immediately removed.

6. Ensure the tactiles are free of all traffic until the adhesive has achieved its full cure (allow 24 hrs).

The above information is general in nature and the contractor must make their own judgement regarding specific surface materials and site conditions.