Tactile Indicator Installation Failures: A Threat to the Visually Impaired

Imagine navigating a busy railway platform or a noisy intersection, without sight.
For millions of visually impaired individuals, this is a daily challenge. Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSIs), such as tactile indicators and truncated domes, are essential tools that make public spaces safer and more navigable. But when these indicators are incorrectly installed—or worse, omitted—they pose a real and dangerous threat.

What Are Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSIs)?

Tactile Ground Surface Indicators are raised surface features designed to assist people with visual impairments. These indicators provide non-visual cues through touch—felt underfoot or with a cane—that guide users, warn them of hazards, or help them identify safe paths.

Common types of TGSIs include:

• Truncated domes – used as warning indicators near hazards such as road crossings, platform edges, or staircases.

• Directional tactile indicators (navigation bars) – used to guide users through open spaces or long corridors.

Why Proper Installation of Tactile Indicators Is Critical

ncorrect or inconsistent installation of tactile indicators doesn’t just fail to help—it actively puts lives at risk.

Whether it’s transport hubs, sidewalks, stairways, railway platforms, or public buildings, people rely on tactile cues for safe navigation. Errors in installation—too many tiles, too few, wrong locations, or poor quality—can result in serious injuries and legal consequences for property owners and managers.

Top Installation Failures That Jeopardize Accessibility

1. Overuse of TGSIs

More isn’t always better. Installing too many tactile tiles or oversized indicators can confuse users about direction and pathway boundaries. It may even lead them into unsafe areas.

Large, excessive TGSI areas also create uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of falls for pedestrians and users of wheelchairs or walkers. Regulations typically require warning indicators to extend at least 600 mm in the direction of travel, not more.

2. Insufficient Tactile Coverage

Under-installing is just as dangerous. Too few tactile indicators fail to provide sufficient warning of upcoming hazards. This compromises the purpose of detectable warning surfaces.

Standards mandate that tactile indicators be installed across the entire width of stair landings, curb ramps, blended transitions, and transit platforms to ensure maximum visibility and effectiveness.

3. Misplaced Installations

Installing TGSIs in incorrect locations—such as the middle of a crossing instead of at entry/exit points—can mislead visually impaired users. They might assume they’re in a safe zone when they’re actually at risk.

Placement of tactile indicators must comply with national and local building codes. Failure to follow these standards not only risks injury but may also expose property owners to legal liability under disability access regulations.

4. Inadequate Fixing and Surface Attachment

When truncated domes or tactile tiles aren’t securely fastened, they can loosen over time or become tripping hazards. A raised dome that isn’t flush with the surface can catch on canes, feet, or mobility aids—leading to injuries or falls.

Follow the Standards. Save Lives.

When tactile indicators are installed according to specifications, they enhance:

• User independence

• Public safety

• Compliance with accessibility standards (e.g., ADA, AS/NZS 1428.4.1)

Incorrect installation, on the other hand, may result in:

• Accidents or injuries

• Accessibility violations

• Legal penalties and reputational harm

Your Trusted Partner in Tactile Safety – Eminent Tactiles

At Eminent Tactiles, we’re committed to providing high-quality, compliant, and durable tactile solutions. From planning and consultation to installation and maintenance, we offer a full suite of services to help you meet safety standards and make your property accessible to all.

Our tactile products are:

• Slip-resistant

• UV-stable and colourfast

• Highly durable in outdoor and high-traffic settings

• Installed in accordance with national and international standards

Is Your Property Truly Accessible to the Visually Impaired?

Let us help you evaluate your current tactile installations. Whether you’re upgrading an existing site or planning a new project, our experts will ensure your tactile indicators are placed safely, effectively, and legally.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our certified tactile solutions.