12th Aug 2024
Proper installation is crucial for tactile indicators like detectable warning surfaces to maximize accessibility, safety, and longevity. Even minor errors in tactile marker placement or tile application can severely undermine functionality.
As Canada's leading supplier of accessible building products, we at Tactile Solution Canada want to highlight common installation missteps with tactile walking surface indicators and how to avoid them. Adhering to specifications and using certified installers prevents defects that render tactile systems ineffective.
Tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) refer to textured ground surfaces that convey vital accessibility information through touch. Two main types exist:
Warning Tactile Indicators: Textures with truncated tactile domes that alert users to hazards like platforms, stairs, vehicle routes, etc.
Wayfinding Tactile Indicators: Textures with parallel raised bars that direct users along appropriate pedestrian circulation paths.
Proper installation ensures these tactile cues are positioned correctly and securely fastened. Let's examine installation pitfalls to avoid.
Tactile indicators must be placed accurately to serve their function correctly. For warning indicators, improper placement jeopardizes hazard notification. With wayfinding indicators, imperfect placement misdirects users.
Solutions:
Consult design drawings to verify specified tactile locations.
For standardized placements like platform edges, refer to codes like CSA B651.
Seek guidance from accessibility specialists on appropriate positioning.
Insufficient tactile marker coverage leaves key areas devoid of accessibility cues.
Solutions:
Review minimum surface area standards for each application in CSA B651.
Based on regulations, ensure tactile pads extend fully across walkways, ramps, and platform edges.
Confirm sufficient visual contrast between tactile and surrounding surfaces.
The orientation of tactile markers impacts detectability. For example, wayfinding bars must align with circulation routes.
Solutions:
Double-check design plans for tactile orientation relative to pedestrian movements.
Arrange wayfinding bar tiles perpendicular to the direction of travel.
Consult with CNIB representatives on appropriate orientation.
Dimensional defects like insufficient dome spacing, diameter, and height reduce tactile detectability.
Solutions:
Verify all dimensions, including truncated dome size, height, and spacing, adhere to CSA B651 specifications during installation.
Use calibrated measuring tools to check dimensions regularly.
Review product Data Sheets to confirm tactile system compliance.
Improperly seated tactile tile edges pose tripping risks and impair wheeling.
Solutions:
Select tiles with beveled borders to provide smooth transitions.
Ensure surface-mounted tactile tile edges get trimmed flush with surrounding floors.
Confirm proper subfloor preparation and use of setting compounds for even surfaces.
Poor bonding leads to loose tiles that detach, causing safety issues.
Solutions:
Strictly follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions for setting tactile tiles.
Check bond strength at intervals during the curing period.
Consider more robust mechanical anchors instead of adhesives alone in specific settings.
Insufficient visual contrast diminishes safety for low-vision users.
Solutions:
Opt for brightly colored tactile tiles like safety yellow where possible.
Ensure noticeably different lightness/hue between tactile tiles and ground plane.
Border tactile pads with high-contrast tactile strips for added detectability.
Certain tactile materials lack exterior durability or slip resistance.
Solutions:
Consult standards like CSA B651 to select suitable materials for each application.
Verify product testing data to confirm weathering performance, lifespans, and slip ratings.
Privilege sturdy metals, polymers, porcelain, and granite over low-cost materials.
Failing to assess current surfaces leads to improper preparation and faulty application.
Solutions:
Survey existing substrates for soundness, flatness, drainage, and fastening options.
Specify appropriate setting compounds and adhesives based on conditions.
Correct deficiencies like cracks, sloping, and pooling water before installing tactile.
Poor visibility complicates tactile location, especially for low-vision users.
Solutions:
Advise design teams to provide sufficient overhead lighting near tactile installations.
Use photoluminescent tactile products to add glow-in-dark visibility.
Test illuminance levels post-installation for hotspots, shadows, and glare issues.
By being vigilant of these common installation missteps, stakeholders can take corrective actions to implement compliant, durable, and effective tactile systems.
We provide comprehensive installation instruction guides for all tactile products to promote proper application. Referring to manufacturer guidelines and involving certified installers mitigates defects in the tactile application.
Attention to specifications, certified installers, quality control, and guidance from tactile specialists help avoid preventable errors that compromise accessibility. Adhering to standards like CSA B651 ensures tactile systems fulfill their vital function of promoting universal mobility and safety. Contact our team at Tactile Solution Canada to learn more about installation services.
Here are some common installation-related queries:
Inspections at project completion or annually using standards like CSA B651 cover placement, dimensions, materials, contrast, adhesion, and transitions.
Installers should be certified by manufacturers or have 5+ years of installing similar systems. Tactile providers offer training.
Guidelines should be reviewed thoroughly before installation and periodically referenced during application.
Properly installed and maintained outdoor tactile systems last 10-15 years. Indoor applications last 15-25+ years before requiring replacement.
Protect installed tactile from traffic using boards/mats. Schedule tactile application as one of the final steps before turnover.
12th Aug 2024
Urban accessibility refers to the ease with which people with disabilities or other access needs can navigate and participate in city environments. It is a key pillar of inclusive urban design. When implemented thoughtfully, accessibility measures empower and include vulnerable groups while enhancing cities for all users.
As a leading supplier of tactile warning systems in Canada, we at Tactile Solution advocate for accessibility across infrastructure, technology, policies, and attitudes. In this blog, we analyze global leaders in accessible urban planning and extract key learnings for Canadian cities.
Over 15% of the global population lives with some form of disability, ranging from mobility and sensory issues to cognitive conditions. These groups face daily barriers navigating inaccessible built environments – curbs without curb cuts, narrow hallways, lack of audio cues or Braille signage, and more.
Beyond permanent disability, anyone can experience situational limitations at some point, like using crutches after an injury. An aging population also increases demands for accessibility as mobility declines.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) outlines a clear moral and legal imperative for accessibility in Canada. Most countries worldwide have similar regulations. Beyond legal obligations, accessibility enables social participation and autonomy for all people regardless of ability – a fundamental human right.
Over 80% of Canadians live in cities today. This number will only grow over the coming decades. The design of these urban landscapes has an outsized impact on the quality of life for residents.
Urban planning teams shape the built environment through policies, zoning, transportation networks, public spaces, infrastructure standards, etc. These planning decisions either erect or tear down accessibility barriers at a mass scale.
Some key facets that determine the accessibility of a city include:
Public Transit: Access to low-floor buses, accessible trains, wayfinding in transit hubs, etc.
Streets & Sidewalks: Curb cuts, pedestrian crossings, rest areas, maintenance, etc.
Parks & Public Spaces: Sensory gardens, inclusive playgrounds, tactile wayfinding, parking, etc.
Civic Infrastructure: Government offices, libraries, community centers, voting stations, etc.
Housing: Visitable homes, universal design standards, affordable options, etc.
Digital Access: Assistive technologies, apps, virtual services, automated systems, etc.
Awareness & Inclusion: Disability representation, cultural sensitivity training, outreach programs, etc.
When all these aspects are designed inclusively, they collectively enable people with disabilities to access education, employment, healthcare, recreation, and all facets that contribute to an independent and fulfilling life.
Many international cities have become pioneers of accessible urban design. Though no city has achieved perfect accessibility, we can extract key lessons from those setting the bar.
This island city-state ranks among the most accessible cities globally thanks to holistic, accessible development policies mandated by its government.
All new infrastructure projects must adhere to Universal Design principles such as barrier-free access. Public housing encompasses 80% of residential buildings, most built with accessibility in mind. Singapore actively consults disability advocacy groups to guide planning decisions.
A comprehensive quality of life index tracks progress on inclusion and accessibility. Mass transit offers low-floor buses and barrier-free routes from homes to destinations like community centers. Apps provide navigation assistance tools powered by AI.
Legacy infrastructure poses accessibility challenges in old European cities like London. Yet concerted revitalization initiatives are transforming districts into beacons of accessibility.
A prime example is the new King’s Cross regeneration project. The 67-acre site has been reimagined as a model of inclusive urban design. Nearly a third of new housing is explicitly dedicated to disabled residents. Tactile walking maps help navigation while audio beacons announce points of interest. The neighborhood connects seamlessly with accessible public transit.
Such decentralized district-based retrofitting allows old cities to pivot towards accessibility one area at a time.
The world’s largest metropolitan area, Tokyo, offers a test case in making densely populated megacities accessible, though significant room for improvement remains.
Accessibility initiatives picked up steam leading into the 2021 Olympics. This includes nearly universal access to subway systems thanks to platform screen doors, tactile surfaces, and accessible carriages. Accessible taxis receive government subsidies to aid affordability.
Apps provide navigation assistance and disability resource access information. Barrier-free routes connect major tourist attractions like the Tokyo National Museum to transit hubs. Tactile walking surface indicators aid navigation in commercial centers.
Tokyo proves that even the most populated cities can make progress on accessibility with sustained government commitment.
Though ranking decently on disability inclusion, Canada has ample room to emulate global leaders. Our key takeaways include:
Legislate accessibility requirements into building codes, infrastructure standards, and zoning policies at all government levels.
Actively partner with disability advocates to guide urban planning decisions instead of ineffective “deciding for” approaches.
Establish quantitative goals and track detailed metrics on inclusion efforts. What gets measured gets managed.
Mobility is essential for participation. Ensure affordable, reliable, accessible transit across buses, trains, taxis, and innovative platforms like rideshares.
Bring accessibility interventions together at the district scale for exponential impact rather than scattered, disconnected efforts.
Provide tax benefits, grants, and resources for businesses undertaking accessibility improvements.
Promote accessibility and disability awareness through media representation, education campaigns, and leading by example in the public service realm.
An often overlooked yet pivotal dimension of urban accessibility involves navigation tools for the vision impaired. Detectable warning surfaces provide essential environmental cues to enhance mobility.
Proper tactile design requires careful consideration of placement, product specifications, and installation methodology. Our team possesses extensive expertise in AODA, ACA, CSA B651, and NBC compliance. We actively advise urban planning agencies on correctly integrating tactile wayfinding and hazard warning surfaces.
Tactile indicator applications include:
Public Transit Platforms: Detect platform edge drop-offs with attention tactile system
Sidewalks & Trails: Define boundaries between pedestrian and vehicular zones
Parks & Plazas: Guide visitors with wayfinding tactile to key places like information kiosks and counters
Civic Institutions: Embed wayfinding paths leading to entranceways
Commercial Spaces: Help users locate checkout points, directories, seating areas, and more
And much more.
The collective lessons from global leaders demonstrate that accessible urban design relies on coordinated efforts across infrastructure, regulations, technologies, and changing hearts and minds.
While progress takes sustained commitment, every step moves us closer to cities that empower all citizens regardless of ability or circumstance. It is time for Canada to become the benchmark for inclusive communities.
Reach out to our team at Tactile Solution Canada to learn about our tactile and accessible attention and wayfinding products, helping realize this vision one public space at a time.
Here are some common questions about urban accessibility and inclusive city planning:
Mandates like AODA levy financial penalties for non-compliance. Many cities also provide tax credits and grants to incentivize voluntary adoption of Universal Design.
Ontario, Calgary, Montreal, and Ottawa consistently rank among the most accessible in global city indices. However, all cities have room for considerable improvement.
Priorities include public transit, civic institutions, public housing, and disabled-friendly downtown districts well connected through barrier-free routes.
Where retrofitting is unrealistic, supplementary measures like ramps over stairs, wheelchair lifts, and audio guides improve accessibility. Tactile wayfinding is invaluable for navigating aged complex sites.
DIY improvements like curb-cut ramps, sensory gardens in vacant lots, vibrant crosswalks, and pedestrian plazas can rapidly transform accessibility.
Contact our team at Tactile Solution Canada to learn more about building inclusive cities!
12th Aug 2024
When retrofitting existing structures to comply with accessibility regulations, choosing the most cost-effective tactile solutions becomes quite important. As the leading tactile products supplier in Canada, here at Tactile Solution Canada, we understand this challenge well. This blog highlights some highly affordable tactile options well-suited for upgrading structures on a tight budget.
As per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the National Building Code of Canada (NBC), installing tactile tiles is mandatory to ensure safe navigation for pedestrians with vision impairment. While newbuilds can seamlessly integrate cast-in-place tiles, retrofits usually need " tactile, "glued" to the existent surface".
As discussed in our previous blog, " surface applied tiles" offer a pragmatic solution for upgrading tactility on "existent surfaces" like pavements and flooring. These tiles offer a convenient and affordable way to install tactile walking surface indicators on existing surfaces, unlike more expensive options, embedded concrete. These durable tiles attach securely to surfaces like sidewalks, ramps, platform edges, stair treads, or landings with special adhesives built to withstand heavy foot traffic, freeze/thaw cycles, salt, and moisture.
Compared to tearing up and re-pouring concrete, installing surface-mounted tactile pads provides tremendous cost and labor savings. Tiles offer flexibility to contour curved surfaces and radii seamlessly. They can also be precision cut onsite to fit any shape. Color choices contrast against surroundings to enhance detectability. These versatile solutions work excellently to create accessible routes through public parks, transit centers, government buildings, healthcare campuses, shopping centers, and other facilities.
We'll highlight four great surface-applied tactile products that meet Canadian standards that balance durability and ADA/AODA compliance with affordability!
AccessTile leads the industry for affordable detectable warning systems perfect for retrofit applications. Their surface-applied truncated dome tiles are installed easily to add tactile curb ramps, platform edges, and other hazards needing bright visual and textured contrast between pedestrian and vehicular routes such as curb ramps, wheelchair ramps, top of stairs/escalators, and blended transitions.
AccessTile's surface-mounted wayfinding bars are installed together with their truncated dome tiles to create full AODA-compliant accessible routes. These detectable directional bars guide users along paths between destinations like information kiosks, registration desks, and elevator banks.
Boasting excellent durability and traction, Armor-Tile surface-applied tactile pads bring enhanced accessibility anywhere without breaking budgets. The tiles made from proprietary polymers blend optimal slide resistance, sound properties, and textured profiles to improve detectability and grip for canes/walkers.
Eon Tile's flexible rubber tactile tiles suit both interior and exterior applications requiring custom sizing to unique measurements. These durable, resilient pads install perfectly along curved walkways and radii.
Installing proper TWSI tiles improves accessibility and minimizes liability risks across properties receiving public foot traffic. Tactile warning surfaces represent excellent return on investment over their long lifespans.
Ideally, begin budgeting early once consider enhancing accessibility among retail spaces, transit platforms, public parks, and government sites. This allows for appropriate funding for quality tactile installations.
Explore federal and provincial grants incentivizing accessibility upgrades under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) supporting goals for barrier-free Canada by 2040.
For large-scale retrofitting, break projects into budget-friendly phases, first addressing high-priority areas to balance immediate needs against stretched capital resources.
As Canada's leading supplier of durable ADA and AODA-compliant tactile solutions, Tactile Solution Canada stands ready to assess retrofitting requirements, recommend appropriate systems balancing durability, detectability, and affordability, plus support contractors through environmentally friendly installations, improving accessibility at facilities across provinces.
Quality surface-applied tiles from AccessTile, Armor-Tile, and Eon Tile balance affordability with durability, ADA/AODA, CSA compliance, and ease of installation for retrofit applications. Their customizable modular designs allow cost-effectively tailoring detectable warnings to site parameters.
When installed adequately following manufacturer guidelines onto concrete or asphalt surfaces, most surface-applied tactile systems provide 10-15 years lifespans in outdoor conditions and 20+ years indoors before needing replacement.
Look for surface-applied tactile tiles containing polymers, composite metals, or porcelain stoneware materials resistant to corrosion, fractures, wear, and wear-and-tear. Avoid natural woods or plastic composites vulnerable to exterior conditions.
Great information sources include the Canadian Revenue Agency, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Ontario Renovates Program, and local provincial accessibility directorates. Consulting an accessibility specialist also helps navigate the best funding support.
The federal Accessible Canada Act harmonizes nationally with provincial laws like Ontario's Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), which provides standards all public buildings must achieve. Local building codes often reference these laws.
We hope these surface-mounted tactile solution options and budgeting tips assist your team's planning process when navigating important retrofitting decisions ahead. Please get in touch with Tactile Solution Canada for personalized guidance tailoring the optimal product recommendations unique to your retrofitting project requirements and budget.
8th Jul 2024
Ensuring safe evacuation during emergencies has always been a top priority in Canada, considering the stringent code standards and accessibility laws. As a reputed supplier of code-compliant tactile solutions, here at Tactile Solution Canada, we understand the significance of prompt egress guidance, especially for people with disabilities or vision loss. Our photoluminescent products, like Ecoglo exit signs, have significantly been helping contractors and building authorities achieve 100% compliance.
In this blog, we'll explore how Ecoglo Photoluminescent Exit Signs in Canada can facilitate safe evacuation from buildings and why they should be your go-to choice for indoor/outdoor exit signage. We'll also discuss the code requirements regarding emergency signage in Canada, along with installation and maintenance best practices. But first, let's understand how these innovative signs work their magic.
Ecoglo exit signs use photoluminescence science to glow brightly even without electricity. They absorb ambient light during the day and re-emit that stored light at night or during power outages. This long-lasting glow makes them highly visible, allowing people to see the way out.
The secret lies in a special luminous pigment called zinc sulphide, which is applied over the sign's surface. When this pigment absorbs visible or UV light, electrons in the material jump to a higher energy state. Once the light source is removed, the electrons slowly decay back to their normal state, releasing the stored light photons in the process.
This photoluminescence continues until all the photons are released, providing a glow for many hours. Over multiple charge-discharge cycles, Ecoglo signs can retain 80-90% of their initial luminance, ensuring long-lasting performance throughout their lifespan. If you are thinking - Are Photoluminescent Exit Signs Code Compliant? Then read on:
As per the National Building Code of Canada and provincial codes like the Ontario Building Code, illuminated or photoluminescent exit signs are mandatory in any building that requires an emergency lighting system. Some essential requirements include:
Canadian regulations explicitly require properly marked exit pathways in buildings to enable efficient emergency evacuation:
Ecoglo signs help meet these legal requirements for exit path marking. Their bright green glow and directional arrows fulfill code mandates on exit sign visibility and wayfinding.
Let's see why Ecoglo Exit Directional Signs are a highly recommended solution.
As Ecoglo signs do not require electricity to glow, they can continue guiding occupants to safety even during complete power outages caused by disasters like fires or earthquakes.
The evenly distributed luminous surface area and minimum luminance of 10 lux as per codes ensure Ecoglo signs are highly conspicuous from long distances, clearing all visibility hazards.
After just 30 minutes of daylight or ambient light exposure, Ecoglo Glow in the Dark Exit Signs in Canada can glow brightly for a minimum of 60 minutes as codes mandate. This allows adequate time for evacuation, even from the most extensive facilities. These signs can glow for more than 70 hours after just 54 minutes of lux charging.
Ecoglo signs are weatherproof, UV resistant, and ideal for both indoor and outdoor installations, eliminating the need for multiple signage types.
Being maintenance-free, Ecoglo signs last over a decade, far exceeding typical LED signs, reducing the total cost of ownership. There is no requirement for frequent battery replacements, too.
As the only photoluminescent exit sign endorsed by accessibility organizations across Canada, Ecoglo assures effortless AODA and NBC compliance for all projects.
Here are some recommended practices to ensure maximum performance and durability of Ecoglo signs post their installation:
A. Ecoglo signs can continuously glow bright for 10-15 years of service life if installed correctly and with adequate daily charging.
A. Yes, Ecoglo exit signs are independently tested and certified to meet all NBC guidelines for luminance, duration, and location of emergency lighting and signage in Canada.
A. Absolutely, Ecoglo signs are fully weatherproof, UV resistant, and CSA certified for indoor or outdoor use without requiring any cover or protection.
A. Wiping the luminous surface with a lint-free cloth or tissue paper dampened with plain water is the recommended cleaning method for Ecoglo signs.
We hope this detailed blog has given you good insights into Ecoglo photoluminescent exit signs and how they can play a pivotal role in facilitating safe evacuation according to Canada's accessibility codes. As a leading supplier, Tactile Solution Canada is committed to supplying only top-quality, thoroughly tested, and code-certified tactile solutions. Please feel free to contact us for any order queries.
8th Jul 2024
Tactile attention indicators, also known as Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI), are an important accessibility feature required by the Ontario Building Code (OBC) to help visually impaired persons safely navigate buildings and public spaces.
As a leading supplier of tactile products, we at Tactile Solution Canada want to provide a comprehensive overview of what the current OBC says about tactile attention indicators to help architects, contractors, building owners, and property managers understand the code requirements and select compliant products.
The key section outlining standards for tactile attention indicators in the current OBC is Section 3.8.3.18. It states that where a tactile attention indicator is required, it shall conform to the specifications outlined in Sentence (2) and Clauses 4.1.1 and 4.1.2 of ISO 23599 standard for Assistive Products for Blind and Vision-Impaired Persons – Tactile Walking Surface Indicators.
Some key criteria for OBC-compliant tactile attention indicators as per ISO standard 23599 are:
The OBC mandates the installation of tactile attention indicators in the following locations:
Per OBC 3.8.3.17, tactile attention indicators must be installed:
This alerts those with vision impairments that they are approaching a set of stairs.
As per OBC 3.8.3.17, tactile indicators are required:
This prevents people from unintentionally walking off the edge of an elevated or steeply sloped platform.
Per OBC 3.8.3.18, tactile attention indicators must be demarcated:
This warns pedestrians when they are entering a potentially dangerous vehicular travel way.
The OBC requires tactile attention indicators to have truncated dome textures with specific dimensions:
Dome Top Diameter Spacing
These specifications allow the tactile cues to be easily discernible underfoot and detectable with a cane without posing a tripping risk.
How Tactile Solutions Can Help
At Tactile Solutions, we supply a wide range of OBC-compliant tactile attention indicators to help buildings and public spaces meet Canadian accessibility standards. Our products are:
With over 20 years of experience supplying tactile solutions across Canada, we can recommend the right products for your specific project requirements. We also provide hassle-free shipping across the country.
Our customer service team is happy to answer any questions on OBC tactile indicator requirements and provide code consultation. We aim to ensure architects, contractors and property owners have access to compliant tactile safety solutions for all projects.
A: Indoors, tactile attention indicators are commonly installed at stair nosings, elevated platforms and stages, exit doors, accessibility ramps, and high-contrast surroundings to define paths of travel.
A: These products come with rear-applied tape or can be installed using mechanical fasteners. Set into fresh concrete during new construction. Indicators must be flush with the ground surface.
A: With proper installation and maintenance, quality-compliant tactile indicators can last 10-15 years outdoors and 20+ years indoors. Replace immediately if damaged, lifted or missing.
Let Tactile Solution Canada help make your building or public space accessible and OBC-compliant with quality tactile indicators installed correctly. Contact our experts today to discuss your tactile attention indicator needs.
8th Jul 2024
In February 2023, Accessibility Standards Canada (ASC) and CSA Group announced a new collaboration to publish three updated accessibility standards that will help create more inclusive and barrier-free spaces across Canada.
As Canada's premier supplier of tactile solutions for the visually impaired, Tactile Solution Canada recognizes the immense value these new standards will have in advancing accessibility and safety in the built environment.
In this blog post, our team of experts will provide an overview of these landmark standards, highlight key improvements and takeaways, and discuss the importance of regulatory compliance for Canadian contractors, architects, and property managers.
First, let's provide some background on Accessibility Standards Canada. ASC is an accredited standards development organization created in 2019 under the Accessible Canada Act.
The mandate of ASC is to develop voluntary accessibility standards, fund research, and share information to help achieve a barrier-free Canada by 2040. ASC brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including persons with disabilities, industry representatives, regulators, and subject matter experts, to create consensus-based accessibility standards.
These standards aim to remove barriers and enhance accessibility in priority areas like employment, built environment, transportation, information & communication technologies, and service delivery. They outline technical requirements and best practices that organizations, including federal entities, can voluntarily adopt to improve accessibility.
While not legally mandatory, ASC's standards are considered the gold standard for accessibility and are increasingly being referenced in provincial and local regulations across Canada.
Now, let's take a closer look at the three critical accessibility standards recently published through the collaboration between ASC and CSA Group:
This revised standard provides best practice requirements for making buildings and facilities accessible for persons with varying disabilities. Key updates in this edition include:
This standard sets recommendations for creating accessible automated banking machines, self-checkout kiosks, self-order menus, and other public-facing interactive systems. The main focus areas are:
This new residential accessibility standard establishes best practices for designing adaptable and accessible homes. Key provisions include:
These standards were developed through extensive consultations with subject matter experts, alongside invaluable lived experience input from persons with disabilities.
The publication of these new standards represents a major milestone in ensuring accessibility for all Canadians. Here are some of the key reasons they are so important:
While voluntary, compliance with standards like ASC/CSA B651 is becoming a crucial part of risk management for constructors and property managers in Canada.
Here are some reasons why adhering to accessibility standards is vital:
By proactively ensuring projects meet or exceed ASC's accessibility standards, constructors and property managers demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and expertise in inclusive design. This open approach to accommodating Canadians of all abilities represents the future of ethical and sustainable construction.
As Canada's leading tactile solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada helps constructors, architects, building owners, and property managers enhance accessibility and regulatory compliance with our diverse product range, including:
Designed for strength, slip resistance, and CSA/AODA/ISO standards compliance, our solutions create accessible built environments that accommodate Canadians of all abilities.
By consulting our team of experts early in your project, we can recommend optimal tactile solutions tailored to your unique specifications and compliance needs. Contact us today!
The new standards provide consistent, nationwide criteria for accessibility across priority sectors. They reflect the latest evidence and universal design best practices. They also demonstrate an organization's commitment to inclusivity.
The standards were developed through extensive consultation between Accessibility Standards Canada, CSA Group subject matter experts, and persons with lived experience of disabilities.
What risks do contractors and owners face by ignoring accessibility standards?
Potential risks include:
Our tactile tiles, pavers, and wayfinding solutions provide critical visual, tactile, and orientation cues for persons with visual disabilities as per CSA and AODA regulations.
By consulting accessibility experts like Tactile Solution Canada early in the design process, constructors can seamlessly integrate compliant tactile solutions into public space projects.
8th Jul 2024
Installing compliant and durable detectable warning tiles is crucial for architects, contractors, and property owners to enhance accessibility in public spaces. But with a myriad of tile options available, choosing the right product tailored to your unique project requirements can get confusing.
This comprehensive guide provides expert insights to simplify the selection of appropriate detectable warning tiles based on factors like setting, traffic, longevity, costs, and aesthetics. Let’s explore how to pick ideal solutions to fulfill form and function.
Detectable warning tiles, also known as tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs), are textured ground surface tiles that provide critical, non-visual navigation and hazard detection cues. Installed on pedestrian walkways, the tiles contain standardized textures like:
As per provincial accessibility legislation, integrating compliant detectable warning tiles is mandatory in public spaces to accommodate individuals with vision impairments or blindness.
With a wide variety of tile materials, textures, sizes, and installation formats available today, how do you pick the ideal options aligned to your project’s unique specifications?
Will the tiles be installed in exterior spaces exposed to weather or interior environments? Indoor options focus on fire ratings, noise reduction, and aesthetics. Rubber, stainless steel, composite polymers, and porcelain tiles suit interior spaces.
While outdoor spaces demand extra durability to withstand heavy foot traffic, UV radiation, moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and abrasive agents like sand. Popular exterior tile materials are metals, porcelain, and engineered polymers.
Is this a new construction or retrofit project? For new builds, tiles can be directly embedded into fresh concrete to create a seamless finish. Access Tile and Armor Tile offer excellent cast-in-place detectable warning tiles.
For existing surfaces, self-adhesive surface-applied tiles are ideal for rapid upgrading. Access Tile, Eon Tile rubber tiles, Armor or Advantage Tactile stainless-steel plates suit surface-applying.
Footfall volume impacts longevity; for high-traffic zones like transit platforms, durable metal or porcelain tiles withstand decades of walking. Where occasional use is expected, composite polymer tiles suffice.
Certain tiles allow replacing only the damaged section instead of the entire installation. Access Tile Cast-In-Place and Cast-Iron replaceable Tactile Systems enable this. Other tiles require complete tile replacement. Assess long-term costs.
Composite polymer or rubber tiles offer more color/texture options to match surrounding finishes. Metals like stainless steel complement modern designs. Porcelain tiles provide upscale aesthetics for indoor lobbies.
Based on the above factors, here are some recommended compliant detectable warning tiles suitable for diverse public space projects:
Proper installation is vital for tiles to have optimal longevity and meet standards. Here are expert tile installation recommendations:
In Canada, detectable warning tiles must adhere to accessibility legislation and standards to ensure safety. Key regulations include:
By consulting these codes, you can select options that fulfill crucial compliance mandates around tile durability, detectability, dimensions, slip resistance, and placement in public spaces.
As Canada’s premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada offers the widest selection of detectable warning tiles from trusted brands like Access Tile, Armor Tile, Advantage Tile, Eon Tile, and Elan Tile.
Engineered to be long-lasting, weather-resistant, and easy to install and replace, our tiles facilitate compliance with Canadian regulations like the AODA and CSA.
With in-house technical experts providing personalized recommendations, we simplify the selection of complaint tiles tailored to your unique specifications and setting.
Contact our team today for advice on finding suitable tactile warning tiles for your next public space project. Let us pave the path to universal accessibility and safety.
Key options are:
As per the regulations in Canada, locations like transit platforms, information kiosks, ticket counters, sidewalks, building entrances, curb ramps, stairs, and pedestrian crossings require compliant detectable warning tiles.
Based on setting and traffic, tiles may need replacement every 5-10 years. Durable options like metals and porcelain can last decades with minimal replacement needs.
The tiles provide standardized tactile and visual cues to help visually impaired individuals detect hazards, navigate safely, avoid disorientation, and travel independently.
Key considerations are the indoor vs. outdoor setting, expected traffic and loads, required longevity, ability to replace tiles, costs, required aesthetics, and applicable accessibility codes.
8th Jul 2024
The landscape for accessibility and inclusion is rapidly evolving in Canada. With several landmark regulations like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) already in place, a major milestone is set to arrive in 2025 that will impact federal accessibility standards nationwide.
This upcoming deadline pertains to the Accessible Canada Act (ACA), the ambitious federal law that seeks to make Canada barrier-free by 2040. By June 1, 2025, all federally regulated public and private sector organizations with ten or more employees must comply with the ACA’s first phase of accessibility regulations.
This deadline carries major implications for contractors, architects, and construction companies involved in building and renovating public spaces. The ACA mandates extensive accessibility upgrades to buildings, transportation, urban design, communications technology, and, crucially, walking surfaces.
This means integrating code-compliant tactile walking surface indicators and guidance systems will become a legal obligation for making public realm spaces accessible under the ACA.
As Canada’s leading tactile solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada is the ideal partner for contractors seeking expert guidance on selecting and installing ACA-compliant tactile systems ahead of the 2025 deadline.
This blog covers what Canadian builders need about tactile surface compliance under upcoming ACA regulations.
The Accessible Canada Act (ACA) became law in 2019 and is among the most progressive federal accessibility legislations globally. The ACA aims to achieve a “barrier-free Canada” by 2040.
The law defines a “barrier” as anything hindering the full participation of people with disabilities in society. The ACA takes an expansive view of accessibility, going beyond the built environment to address barriers to accessibility in:
This broad scope encompasses both physical and digital aspects of accessibility. The ACA empowers the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) and the Canadian Transportation Agency to develop binding accessibility regulations and codes in phases targeted for 2025, 2030, and ultimately 2040.
These regulations will impose significant accessibility upgrades to federally regulated workplaces, buildings, transportation networks, pedestrian infrastructure, communications technology, and media.
Of particular relevance for Canadian contractors and builders are the regulations under the ACA mandating enhanced accessibility in pedestrian walking surfaces and the built environment.
The ACA requires upgrading outdoor and indoor pedestrian circulation routes, corridors, floors, stairs, elevators, escalators, doors, wayfinding systems, and other architectural features to remove mobility barriers.
A key focus area is installing standardized tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) on pedestrian circulation paths, both indoors and outdoors. TWSIs, called tactile attention or guidance indicators, are textured ground surface markers that provide vital orientation cues and warnings of potential hazards to users through their feet or mobility canes.
The ACA mandates installing compliant tactile attention and guidance systems across all new, extensively renovated public buildings and spaces. This will enable millions of Canadians with vision loss or mobility disabilities to navigate the built environment safely and seamlessly.
For public realm contractors and builders, meeting the ACA tactile surface regulations necessitates:
All new and upgraded pedestrian walking surfaces must integrate compliant tactile attention and guidance indicators as per the upcoming enforceable CRTC regulations modeled after current standards like:
This requires understanding optimal materials, textures, dome/bar sizing, beveling, visual contrast, installation methods, and placement locations.
2. Consulting Users when Selecting Tactile Solutions
The ACA requires involving people with disabilities when planning and implementing accessibility upgrades. Their input on preferences and needs is invaluable for choosing suitable tactile systems.
3. Training Staff on Tactile Installation Procedures
Proper tactile installation as per codes demands trained professionals. Staff needs instruction on surface prep, layout, application, setting, orientation, and beveling to optimize tactile functionality.
4. Rigorously Testing Surfaces Post-Installation
User testing by people with vision disabilities is essential to ensure the installed tactile solutions enhance accessibility as intended. User feedback needs to inform modifications.
5. Developing Maintenance Plans
Keep installed tactile surfaces compliant over the years via scheduled inspections, damage repair, replacements, and preservation of visual contrast.
Following these best practices and the CRTC regulations will allow builders to integrate the optimal ACA-compliant tactile solutions in their projects.
Tactile Solution Canada supplies the most comprehensive range of tactile walking surface indicators from leading brands like Armor Tile, Access Tile, and Advantage Tile.
Our world-class tactile systems enable ACA compliance by providing the following:
With over a decade of supplying tactile solutions for accessibility projects, our experts will recommend the ideal systems to suit your public space requirements.
By consulting us early in your project design process, we can ensure the integration of optimal ACA-compliant tactile walking surfaces to make infrastructure accessible for all.
The ACA requires installing compliant tactile attention and guidance tiles on pedestrian circulation paths in new and upgraded public buildings and spaces. This enables accessibility for people with vision disabilities.
Benefits include enhanced mobility for blind and low-vision users, hazard warnings, clear wayfinding, safety for all pedestrians, meeting code compliance, and inclusive, accessible design.
The ACA applies to federally regulated public and private sector organizations in Canada with 10+ employees. This includes contractors involved in building and renovating public spaces.
How can contractors install correct tactile tiles?
Follow manufacturer specifications, use trained installers, test surface effectiveness post-installation, and develop maintenance plans to preserve functionality.
Achieving full ACA accessibility compliance across Canada’s vast public infrastructure by 2040 will require considerable collective effort. For contractors charged with upgrading public buildings and spaces, integrating code-compliant tactile walking surfaces is an essential piece of this mission.
As Canada’s premier tactile surface experts, Tactile Solution Canada is ready to assist. Our advisors can prescribe the ideal tactile warning systems to make your upcoming projects inviting and safe spaces for all citizens, regardless of ability.
Let us help pave the path to a truly accessible Canada. Contact Tactile Solutions Canada today!
5th Jul 2024
As Canada continues its rapid urbanization, city planners face the crucial challenge of making built environments accessible for all people, including vulnerable groups like citizens with visual or mobility impairments. While great strides have been made in accessibility over the decades, many public spaces still pose navigation challenges for those with disabilities.
This is where tactile wayfinding solutions come in as an indispensable tool for enhancing accessibility. Tactile wayfinding leverages textured ground surface indicators that can be felt underfoot or with a cane to guide users and impart crucial spatial information to pedestrians with visual disabilities.
In this blog, we delve into the world of tactile wayfinding and how it is fast becoming a vital investment for forward-thinking Canadian cities aiming to ensure accessibility and foster inclusion as they continue expanding.
Tactile wayfinding refers to embedded tactile ground surface indicators that outline designated pedestrian circulation paths and key points of interest across public landscapes like transit hubs, parks, and plazas. They provide a tangible navigation channel that users with vision impairments can detect through their feet or canes.
Tactile wayfinding solutions feature flat-topped bars, cone bars, or raised dots arranged in the direction of travel. This consistent alignment perpendicularly to the path of movement provides essential orientation cues. Users can trace the patterns with their foot or cane to discern the safe walking direction.
Well-implemented tactile wayfinding fulfils two essential functions:
Together, these functions foster safer mobility and independence for the visually impaired. They can navigate safely on their own without over-reliance on aids like sighted guides or verbal directions.
Canada is rapidly urbanizing, with over 80% of Canadians residing in large metro areas as of 2016. This urban population boom makes accessibility a prime concern for cities.
The number of Canadians with age-related vision loss is also rising steadily with our aging population. Over 1.5 million Canadians currently live with vision disabilities. And this is expected to double by 2031.
These demographic factors compound the need for tactile wayfinding across Canadian cities. Let's look at how tactile surfaces can foster accessibility in our urban public spaces:
Tactile guidance paths on sidewalks and crosswalk bars at intersections guide pedestrians safely across busy vehicular routes. Tactile indicators at curbs alert users to the transition between pedestrian and traffic zones.
Tactile routes at metro stations, bus terminals, airports, and train platforms enable intuitive access between arrival points and ticketing/information kiosks, washrooms, boarding zones, and staircases.
Sprawling open public spaces can be disorienting to navigate, but tactile paths leading through parks, squares, and markets make them more welcoming.
Library squares, courthouse stairs, and city hall entrance plazas become accessible when tactile surfaces lead the way to their doorsteps.
Retail areas thrive on footfalls. Tactile paving along storefronts, restaurants, and malls keeps them connected, safe, and navigable.
By retrofitting these key zones with compliant tactile wayfinding, cities gain the building blocks of an accessible public realm to serve all citizens.
To ensure consistent non-visual communication and compliance with regulations, tactile wayfinding must adhere to accessibility codes and standards. In Canada, key regulations include:
Conforming with these codes ensures the tactile installations safely and effectively serve the mobility needs of Canadians with vision disabilities.
When planning tactile wayfinding for public realm projects, urban designers and city planners should consider the following:
With numerous tactile products available, expert guidance helps select solutions tailored to each application's unique specifications and accessibility needs.
Key public spaces that should integrate compliant tactile wayfinding include sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, parks, transit platforms, shopping districts, office plazas, airports, government buildings, hospitals, educational institutions, and recreational facilities.
Tactile wayfinding provides essential non-visual orientation cues and directional guidance, allowing people with vision disabilities to navigate safely and independently. It fosters mobility and spatial awareness.
The main regulations are the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), CSA Standard B651, the National Building Code of Canada, and various provincial and municipal building codes.
Strong visual contrast between tactile wayfinding bars and the surrounding surface, through colour and brightness differentiation, is recommended by standards for maximum visibility.
They can retrofit existing spaces with surface-applied tiles or install new tactile surfaces built into concrete. Consulting experts ensure standards compliance and optimal product selection tailored to each site.
Well-designed cities put people first. For too long, disabled citizens have faced exclusion from the seamless enjoyment of public spaces. Thoughtfully planned tactile wayfinding finally brings accessibility to the core of urban design.
These textured guidance networks transform disorienting surroundings into intuitive, navigable places, empowering people with vision disabilities. Integrating compliant tactile wayfinding solutions is an ethical imperative and intelligent investment that positions Canadian cities to lead the charge toward inclusive, barrier-free communities that leave no one behind.
As Canada's foremost tactile solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada partners with cities across the nation to make public realm accessibility a reality. Our expertise in code-compliant solutions tailored to each project's unique needs streamlines the integration of tactile wayfinding.
To equip your city with world-class accessibility, explore our wide range of wayfinding solutions today. Let us pave the path to a brighter future.
5th Jul 2024
In an accessible design, color contrast plays a vital role in enhancing detectability, especially for those with visual impairments. Tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) rely heavily on high color contrast to make their textures visually discernible. This allows partially sighted individuals to supplement the tactile cues with visual information.
For architects, contractors, and engineers specifying tactile surfaces, understanding effective color contrast principles is key to creating accessible and compliant installations. This guide will explore the significance of color contrast, guidelines from Canadian standards, and factors to consider when selecting colors for tactile tiles and surfaces.
While tactilely discernible textures form the foundation of accessible design, sufficient color contrast takes detectability to the next level. Color contrast makes tactile surfaces more visible to those with partial sight, allowing them to spot upcoming changes in the walking surface and respond appropriately.
The high color contrast draws people's attention to the tactile surface, whether it is a warning indicator or a directional path. This prompts individuals to be more observant of their surroundings when they detect the shift in visual appearance between the tiles and adjacent surfaces.
For example, bright yellow truncated domes on a sidewalk curve ramp strongly contrast with the grey concrete pavement. This alerts a pedestrian with low vision to assess their surroundings and identify the upcoming transition from sidewalk to street.
By making textures “pop” visually, strong color contrast enhances safety in public realm navigation for all individuals, especially those who rely on multiple senses beyond just touch.
In Canada, recognized standards guide appropriate color contrast for tactile walking surface indicators. These include:
Additionally, certain colors are designated for specific tactile surface types by convention and best practice, including:
When choosing colors for a tactile installation, consider the following:
Pick colors with at least 70% light reflectance value contrast per accessibility standards. Lighter colors against darker substrates provide the most substantial contrast.
Stick to standardized colors - like safety yellow for warning domes - that align with universal design conventions.
Select colors providing sufficient contrast in daytime and night lighting for maximum discernibility. Light-on-dark often performs better in low light.
Aim for hues contrasting with adjacent material finishes like concrete, stone, metal, carpet, etc., to make the tactile surface clearly distinguishable.
Colors should stand out but complement the overall visual cohesion design scheme. Neutrals like grey and beige are easily paired.
In outdoor settings, increased contrast is key for visibility under varied conditions. Indoors, softer contrasts may suffice, depending on context.
Higher contrast is beneficial for smaller installations, whereas larger contiguous tactile surfaces already stand out, requiring less contrast.
8. Standard Availability
Select from colors that are readily available from manufacturers to avoid custom color minimums and long lead times.
Here are some examples of tactile solutions using color contrasts that enhance accessibility:
These heavy-duty metal tiles come in a bold matte yellow that strikingly contrasts against concrete sidewalks, cinder block walls, asphalt roads, and other common exterior materials. The strong dark-on-light contrast ensures high visibility outdoors.
This stainless-steel plate with embedded truncated domes has a stamped textured finish that makes it pop against floor surfaces. The grey metallic color contrasts nicely both indoors and out against materials like tile, terrazzo, concrete, granite, wood, etc.
For upscale interior installations, these porcelain pavers are available in softer earth tones like cultured grey, vogue black, and sandstone that sufficiently contrast with stone, wood, or neutral floor tiles. The organic hues blend in aesthetically while remaining discernible.
Many tactile products can be custom color-matched or manufactured using specific polymers or resins on request to achieve the required color contrast against planned surfaces. Consulting manufacturers or suppliers is advised to develop optimal color-contrasted solutions for unique projects.
Standards like CSA B651 also recommend installing a test placement area to check if the specified color contrast meets minimum light reflectance value requirements through on-site verification before full-scale installation.
While maximizing contrast for accessibility, aesthetics and design harmony should not be sacrificed. This balances visibility needs with aesthetic vision. By thoughtfully incorporating contrast and color, tactile surfaces can enhance function without compromising form. The right colors elevate safety intuitively.
As Canada’s premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada offers a complete selection of tactile walking surface indicators from leading brands designed to meet all major codes and standards in Canada.
Our extensive range includes detectable warning surfaces, directional guidance tiles, and photoluminescent stair nosings in high-contrast colors created in consultation with accessibility experts.
With a client-focused approach, our team provides guidance at every stage - from initial color selection to onsite quality checks - to deliver compliant tactile installations that are impactful, functional, and harmonious.
To learn more about engineering optimal color contrast for your next project or to view our range of accessible tactile solutions, contact the experts at Tactile Solution Canada today!
A light reflectance value (LRV) contrast of at least 70% is recommended per Canadian accessibility standards like the CSA B651.
High color contrast enhances the visibility of tactile textures for those with partial sight, allowing for warning indications to be both felt underfoot and seen.
Standard colors are safety yellow for warning domes or tiles and brick red, yellow, or black for directional bars or indicators.
Yes, colors should conform to universal conventions. For example, yellow domes indicate hazards everywhere. Consistency aids recognition.
Conducting test placements and using a color contrast analyzer tool will validate if the contrast meets reflectance value requirements.
