A Practical Guide to Tactiles for Councils

Maintaining accessible pedestrian infrastructure doesn’t stop when a project is complete. Tactiles need to remain visible, tactile and fit for purpose throughout their service life.

For councils, maintaining accessibility across an extensive network of footpaths, crossings, bus stops and public facilities can be a significant ongoing responsibility.

Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSIs) are an important part of that infrastructure, providing people who are blind or vision impaired with tactile and visual information about changes in the pedestrian environment.

But what happens when those indicators are missing, damaged, faded or no longer performing as intended?

When existing TGSIs need attention

Not every accessibility issue requires a major infrastructure project.

Across existing pedestrian infrastructure, councils may encounter TGSIs that are:

• Missing altogether
• Cracked, damaged or worn
• Faded or lacking adequate visual contrast
• Loose or deteriorating
• Incorrectly positioned or installed
• No longer suitable for the requirements of the site

For councils managing large asset networks, identifying and progressively addressing these issues can form an important part of ongoing accessibility and maintenance programs.

Tactiles at bus stops

Bus stops are an important application for tactile ground surface indicators, helping people who are blind or have low vision identify the boarding point and navigate safely within the surrounding pedestrian environment.

For councils, tactiles sh1ould be considered as part of bus stop construction, upgrades, accessibility improvements and ongoing maintenance. Existing tactiles should also be assessed where surrounding infrastructure is renewed or altered, as changes to kerbs, paving or pedestrian access can affect the effectiveness and compliance of an existing installation.

Tactiles at intersections and pedestrian crossings

Intersections and pedestrian crossings are another common application for tactiles, providing important information about changes in level and helping people who are blind or have low vision locate crossing points and navigate the transition between footpaths and roads.

With pedestrian infrastructure frequently upgraded as part of road, streetscape and accessibility projects, tactiles should be incorporated into the broader design rather than treated as an afterthought. Existing tactiles may also require replacement where they have become damaged, worn or affected by surrounding works.

Tactiles around stairs, ramps and other hazards

Tactiles are also used to identify hazards and changes in level throughout the public realm. Stairs, ramps, platform edges and other locations where pedestrians need clear warning or directional information may require tactile indicators as part of an accessible design.

For councils, this means tactiles can form part of a much broader range of infrastructure projects, from footpath and streetscape upgrades to community facilities and public spaces. Ensuring the right tactile treatment is specified and installed as part of these works helps create more consistent and accessible environments.

Choosing a replacement tactile system

Replacing a tactile indicator isn’t simply a matter of choosing a colour and fixing it to the pavement.

The product and installation method can have a significant impact on long-term performance.

Councils should consider factors including:

• Compliance with applicable standards
• Slip resistance
• Durability and resistance to wear
• UV and colour stability
• Fixing method
• Suitability for the existing substrate
• Expected service life
• Ease of future maintenance
• Whole-of-life cost

Not all tactile indicators are designed for the same conditions, and a product that performs well initially may not necessarily provide the same long-term performance in a heavily trafficked public environment.

For councils, considering whole-of-life performance rather than simply initial purchase price can help reduce ongoing maintenance and replacement requirements.

A practical solution for existing infrastructure

ESP Australia’s Surface Applied AccessTile® is designed specifically for tactile retrofit applications on suitable existing surfaces.

Manufactured from fibre-reinforced Herculite™ polymer, AccessTile® provides a durable tactile surface and is mechanically and chemically fixed to the substrate.

The system is available in both warning and directional configurations and has been tested for slip resistance in accordance with AS 4586:2013.
ESP can supply AccessTile® direct to councils or contractors, or provide a complete supply-and-installation service.

Supporting better accessibility outcomes

Maintaining compliant and effective TGSIs is an ongoing part of managing accessible public infrastructure.

Whether a council is addressing a single damaged installation, upgrading a group of bus stops or developing a broader tactile replacement program, the right product and installation approach can make the process simpler and more sustainable.

Have existing TGSIs that need attention?

Talk to ESP Australia about AccessTile® and how it can be incorporated into your next accessibility upgrade or maintenance program.