The Importance of Tactile Indicators in Australian Standards

Around 330,000 Australians currently experience blindness or vision impairment, with a large proportion being over 65 years of age. As Australia's population continues to age, it is projected that the number of people with vision impairments will double within the next 25 years. With this in mind, the visually impaired often experience a range of difficulties when navigating built areas, including poor orientation, difficulty finding their bearings, and an increased risk of falls.

Whether it’s vision impairments or other forms of disability, we must ensure dignified, safe and independent access for all members of our community. From making outdoor walking paths detectable and safe to installing floor and safety features such as tactile indicators and stair nosings, there are many ways for building professionals to comply with safety regulations and antidiscrimination standards.

This article focuses on the different types of tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) and their relevant applications, as well as tips on choosing the best tactiles for your project. According to the Australian Standards AS/NZS 1428.4, there are also specific compliance requirements to note when installing tactiles across new building works and renovations which we’ll also explore below.

What are Tactile Indicators?

Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSIs), often referred to as tactile indicators or tactiles, are floor safety features designed to empower the visually impaired to confidently and safely navigate public spaces. Combined with other environmental cues, tactile indicators often play two different but complementary public safety roles: providing directional guidance and warnings of upcoming hazards or obstructions.