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.