A Benefit to Visually Disabled

Sidewalk design has been rethought in recent years as a benefit to visually disabled. The first change was the introduction of curb cuts. While this eliminated a tripping hazard, the removal of the high curb also eliminated a tactile clue for the visually disabled that they were entering onto a roadway.

Several solutions were attempted as tactile clues to replace the curb, but the solution that was of most benefit to visually disabled was truncated domes. The domes are a consistent surface that rises 0.2 inches above the base of the surface. They are easily recognized under foot or when tapped with a cane.

Another benefit to visually disabled is the color contrast of the truncated dome surface compared to the surrounding area. According to guidelines set out in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), there must be a color contrast of at least 70 percent. This allows people with limited vision to see the warning area. Many jurisdictions have opted for federal yellow, although other colors have also been used including brick red. In instances where the surrounding area is light in color, dark gray and black surfaces are used.

A benefit to visually disabled, and in fact for everyone, is an anti-slip surface on the truncated domes. Tactile strips made from engineered composite technology are able to incorporate an anti-slip surface with many tactile elements for further slip resistance. Access Tile, for example, incorporates a unique Diamond Grip design on the surface of the tile design for longer wear. Every Access Tile contains twice as many tactile elements to comparable products.

A brand new feature is a fully replaceable tactile system. Should an Access Tile replaceable tile ever become damaged from extreme abuse, the tile can be quickly replaced. This allows city works departments to remove a potential tripping hazard, a great benefit to visually disabled.

Access Tile has a wide range of color and size choices to suit your project to bring benefit to visually disabled.