TacPad® and TacGuide® - tactile markings
TacPad® and TacGuide® are tactile markings that signifies a safer route for the blind and visually impaired when travelling alone
Traffic signs, signals and road markings are all visual aids that assist the majority of people to manoeuvre in traffic – but not everybody.
The blind and visually impaired need additional help to move around safely whilst travelling alone, therefore tactile markings TacPad® and TacGuide® will prove to be a useful and necessary aid.
Perceptible warnings for the visually impaired
The surface domes of TacPad® and the corduroy surface of TacGuide® making it possible for the blind and partially sighted to both feel the surface and to be aware of a different noise when tapped with a walking stick. By comparison, a concrete tactile produces no audible contrast to an existing concrete surface.
General Information on TacPad® and TacGuide®
These products are beneficial in many situations e.g. pedestrian crossings, bus stops, railway platforms, anywhere that could be dangerous for people with a sight impairment.
They are not only detectable warning systems but can also be used as a means of guidance through busy shopping centres and other crowded areas for both the visually impaired and others.
The domed TacPad® indicates a safe place to cross the road. The ribbed TacGuide® informs the visually impaired that they are in a hazardous area e.g. a flight of stairs, steps, a railway crossing and therefore should proceed with caution.
Applying TacPad® and TacGuide®
TacPad® and TacGuide® are manufactured from flexible thermoplastic; therefore cutting is easy enabling shaping around curves or street furniture.
TacPad® and TacGuide® are installed directly to a hot, thermoplastic adhesive layer on top of the existing surface without any significant or costly preparation. Although they are ideally suited to asphalt they can be applied to brick, concrete or stone by preparing the area with primer. The natural elasticity of thermoplastic enables the products to follow the existing contours of all surfaces.
The installation only requires a person, a broom and a propane burner.
Please see the brochure for further information about the tactile markings TacPad® og TacGuide®
