How Do ADA Detectable Warning Signs Work?
ADA detectable warning tiles are widely used on footpaths and walking areas to guide pedestrians, especially visually impaired and distracted people. The objective of these tiles is to create an elevated surface that warns pedestrians of the danger ahead.
What kind of dangers do pedestrians face?
Visually impaired people walk with sticks. They move slowly to avoid colliding with electric poles and others. Also, they remain careful of the vehicular traffic. Warning tiles alert the pedestrians as soon as they deviate from their path. These tiles are bigger and slightly raised from the normal tiles. As soon as a pedestrian steps on the raised surface, he understands that he needs to be careful.
For example, take a foot-over bridge. Normal people can see the bridge and walk safely over the bridge. But visually impaired pedestrians can’t see the bridge. They could slip on the first step and get injured. But ADA detectable warning tiles can save them from falling down and meeting an accident.
The front area of the bridge is made with warning tiles. It is an etched and raised platform that alerts the pedestrians. Visually impaired people can become alert on accessing a raised platform and check what lies ahead. They will reach their sticks to the foot-over bridge and walk over the bridge safely. And they won’t need anyone to help them in crossing the bridge.
ADA detectable warning tiles are also used at the corners so the pedestrians don’t jump on the motor road. If a person deviates toward the motor road, the warning tiles set at the corner will alert him of the danger ahead. He can stop for a while to check the danger ahead. He can listen to the sound of vehicles and smell the fuel emission. He will turn back to the right path.
What are the results of using warning tiles?
The results of these tiles are surprising. They have reduced the slip and fall accidents to negligible. No pedestrians are hurt because they maintain the right path and speed. And people don’t miss signals from these tiles. It is so because they work in a different manner. They work on the touch signal. As soon as a pedestrian steps on a raised platform, he understands that he needs to be cautious.
ADA detectable warning tiles are designed differently from regular tiles. They are bigger, etched, and raised. A single tile is sufficient to accommodate two pedestrians. They provide ample space for pedestrians to stand safely and explore their surroundings before taking their next steps.
Final Thoughts
The government has mandated that construction companies should use these tiles wherever needed. They are made necessary for areas like escalators, stairs, bridges, slopes, and corners. And the government took this step after many deliberations.
ADA detectable warning tiles are made durable and slip-resistant. They can take much punishment from footsteps and can even withstand dust and moisture. Also, they are available in attractive colors so normal people can notice those tiles from a distance and stay away from them.
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