How are ADA detectable warning tiles changing footpaths?
Visually
impaired people use sticks to find their ways. But now there ADA detectable warning tiles
to help them in adhering to their ways. These are different tiles as they have
raised platforms. The objective of these tiles is to design walkways.
Let’s
discuss the various uses of these warning tiles
1.
Footpath
The
side of the footpath that runs parallel to the road where vehicular traffic runs is
finished with raised tiles. If anyone accidentally steps on this side, he won’t
jump in the road and collide with vehicular traffic. As soon as he steps on
warning tiles, he will become alert for the danger ahead. He will take his
steps back towards the safer side.
2.
Designing reception area
Reception
areas of public places like hotels, offices, shopping malls, and ticket booths
of buses and trains are designed with ADA detectable warning
tiles. These tiles help the pedestrians find their way. For example, a person who is going straight can maintain his direction with the help of warning tiles. If
he changes his direction, he will step on the warning tiles where he will
understand that he has changed the direction.
3. Foot-over
bridge
If a
visually impaired person approaches a foot-over bridge, he needs to get a
warning sign much before the bridge starts. He would need to change his speed
and make balance on the stairs. While he can sense the change of platform
with his stick but it would be too late. He would have to walk slowly to remain
safe. But warning tiles can help him get the signal that he is approaching a
foot-over bridge. The tiles can be set on the approach road to the bridge.
4. Before
facilities
ADA
detectable warning tiles can be used to provide space to wait for elevators,
stairs, and escalators. Visually impaired people can use the raised platform
before stairs, and escalators to make balance so they can step on the stairs or
glide with escalators. Also, they can feel safe and secure while standing on
the raised platform. Similarly, these tiles can be used to make safe lines on
bus stands and platforms.
5. At the entrance
Entrance
areas of buildings like condo complexes and offices can be designed with
warning tiles to help visually impaired visitors understand that they are about
to enter a building. As soon as they step on a raised platform, they will stop
for a while to check whether they are approaching the entrance and change their
speed to cooperate with the security staff.
It will be wrong to say that ADA detectable warning tiles help only visually impaired pedestrians. According to a report on pedestrians, a large number of people walk with their eyes glued to their phones. They keep checking their messages while walking. While they want to make most of their time, but they risk their safety while walking with their eyes on their phones. Now the government has made it mandatory for contractors to use detectable tiles wherever needed.
Comments
Post a Comment