Tactile Pad
The Importance of Tactile Ground Surface Indicators
Tactile pads play a crucial role in accessibility and safety management, especially in environments where visually impaired individuals need clear warning signals about potential hazards. These accessibility indicators, like those offered by Image Extra, provide essential navigation assistance and prevent accidents, ensuring compliance with Australian disability access legislation. Durable polyurethane construction with UV-stable colours ensures long-lasting performance, making them a cost-effective solution for improving accessibility standards. These indicators are designed for various public applications, offering reliability to suit different environmental needs. Whether for protecting pedestrians or ensuring legal compliance, Image Extra’s tactile pads are an essential investment for organisations looking to enhance accessibility and safety.
Pedestrian Safety Enhancement
Tactile pads are crucial in preventing accidents by alerting visually impaired individuals to potential hazards such as stairways, platform edges, and pedestrian crossings. The raised dome pattern provides immediate tactile feedback that can be detected through footwear or mobility aids, significantly reducing the risk of falls and collisions.
Legal Compliance and Standards
Tactile indicators help organisations meet Australian accessibility requirements under AS/NZS 1428.4.1:2009 and the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). Proper installation demonstrates commitment to inclusive design and ensures facilities meet mandatory accessibility standards for public and commercial spaces.
Navigation Assistance for Vision Impaired
Tactile pads provide essential way finding assistance by creating detectable surface changes that guide users safely through complex environments. The standardised patterns offer consistent navigation cues that visually impaired individuals can rely on across different locations and facilities.
Universal Design Benefits
Beyond serving visually impaired users, tactile indicators benefit the broader community by providing additional safety warnings in low-light conditions, busy environments, or situations where people may be distracted by mobile devices or other activities.
Types of Tactile Pad Configurations
Warning Tactile Pads
Round raised dome patterns, like the Dugite 300mm tactile pads, serve as warning indicators to alert users of approaching hazards. These truncated dome designs are specifically engineered to provide maximum tactile feedback while maintaining durability under foot traffic.
High-Visibility Yellow Pads
Yellow tactile pads provide maximum visual contrast for users with partial vision while meeting Australian Standard requirements for colour specification. The bright yellow colour ensures visibility in various lighting conditions and weather situations.
Contrasting Black Pads
Black tactile pads offer alternative colour options for specific design requirements while maintaining the essential tactile properties. These provide strong contrast against light-coloured surfaces and complement modern architectural aesthetics.
Self-Adhesive Installation System
Both colour options feature peel-and-stick adhesive backing that eliminates the need for complex installation procedures. The aggressive bituminous adhesive provides secure attachment to concrete, asphalt, tile, and other approved surfaces.
Why Choose Image Extra?
Selecting the right provider is crucial when implementing tactile accessibility systems for your facility. As a Perth-based company, we stand out as a leader in accessibility solutions for many reasons:
AS/NZS 1428.4.1:2009 Compliant Products
Image Extra stocks genuine Dugite tactile pads that comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 1428.4.1:2009, ensuring your installation meets legal requirements and provides reliable accessibility assistance for users.
Proven Durability
Our tactile pads are manufactured for Australian UV conditions with fade-resistant colours and weather-stable construction, ensuring long-term performance in Perth’s climate while maintaining tactile effectiveness.
Local Perth Service
Based in Balcatta, we understand Western Australian accessibility requirements and building codes, providing expert guidance and fast delivery across the Perth metropolitan area and regional WA.
Installation Support
With experience in accessibility compliance, our team can provide guidance on proper placement, spacing, and installation techniques to ensure your tactile indicators meet Australian Standards and serve users effectively.
Contact Image Extra
If you’re looking for reliable tactile ground surface indicators, depend on our quality Dugite range to enhance accessibility and safety. Call 1300 366 999 or visit our Balcatta showroom to learn more about our tactile pad products and compliance requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tactile Pads
What are tactile pads used for?
Tactile pads are designed to assist visually impaired pedestrians by providing tactile warning of potential hazards such as stairs, platform edges, pedestrian crossings, and elevation changes in public and commercial environments.
Do tactile pads comply with Australian accessibility standards?
Yes, quality tactile pads like our Dugite range comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 1428.4.1:2009 for tactile ground surface indicators and meet Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) requirements for accessible design.
How are tactile pads installed?
Tactile pads feature self-adhesive backing for easy installation. Simply prepare the surface, peel the backing sheet, and press firmly into position. No special tools or adhesives are required for proper installation on approved surfaces.