As per accessibility legislation, dangerous pathways or drop offs in an open space need to have T
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Accessibility legislation requires installation of TWSI’s on existent surfaces. Our Surface
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Safe staircases are a necessity, accessibility legislation requires the installation of 2 inches
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Accessibility legislation mandates installing Exit Signs and Emergency Lighting indoors, which ha
Read MoreCompliance Solutions Canada, a leader in providing Canadian business with compliant workplace solutions since 2008, now introduces a specialized website helping contractors to find the best and most cost-effective code compliant tactile solution for their projects. This new website is named TactileSolution.ca
By making use of our extensive knowledge of code compliance, this specialized site is “Your Source for Code Compliant Solutions”.
Our Mission is to provide our customers with accessibility solutions that meet all current federal and provincial standards. All products offered meet the most rigorous test requirements and comply with AODA, CSA, ISO, FADS and IFC standards to ensure you achieve the highest compliance in your projects.
Our Tactile Solutions are achieved by the most comprehensive offering of tactile walking surface indicators ranging from cast iron and stainless steel to various engineered polymers and an extensive range of photoluminescent (PLM) exit signs, stair nosing’s and exit path marking.
When you need mandatory code compliant accessibility solutions for any project in Canada, look in our featured solutions or call us.
Armor-Tile offers the largest selection of Fully AODA/CSA/ISO and OBC compliant detectable warning tactile system products for Transit platforms, Multi-modal transit centers, Curb ramps, Stairwells, Escalator approaches. Pedestrian crossings, Parking areas, Reflecting pools and Building entrances.
Introducing the Ultimate SolutionTM in Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI). Access® Tile Replaceable Cast in Place has combined proven engineered polymers, processing and material technologies with innovative and intelligent design features to create the ultimate replaceable tactile walking surface indicators. Maximized efficiencies in manufacturing, materials sourcing and
product specifications deliver the most cost-effective
Advantage one is the leading detectable warning and directional tile surface system for construction requirements anywhere the safety of the visually impaired is a concern: curb ramps, shopping malls, transit platforms, parking areas, stairwells and escalator approaches.
Advantage Tactile Systems, is our line of TWSI’s that come in different metal materials. Designed to last the most rigours applications or to enhance the look of
EonTM Tile is a durable and flexible rubber tactile indicator chosen first by professionals who design and construct the finest commer-cial, institutional and public environments.
EonTM Tile is state of the art polymers compounded together to create category leading quality and a contemporary look and finish.
Suitable for a variety of applications such as airport con-courses, railway stations, shopping centres, department s
ElanTM Tile is the ultimate porcelain tactile indicator chosen by professionals who design and construct the finest commercial, institutional and public environments.
Incorporating the best raw materials in the market, ElanTM Tile far exceeds the EN 14411 standard, allowing the product to meet the designation of “Porcelain Stoneware” and to be suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
Offering
Ecoglo is known throughout the industry for producing a wide range of products that offer the one-stop solution for your pathfinding needs. All Ecoglo products are slip-resistant and visible in all light conditions. Ecoglo’s range of emergency visibility products include surface applied anti-slip strips and cast in place star noising’s that are individually tested to meet the performance requirements of any performance-based buildi
Ecoglo is a leading global innovator of UL certified Photoluminescent Exit Signs and Emergency Signage that exceed worldwide code requirements. Ecoglo’s Photoluminescent Exit Sign systems are durable against UV and all-weather conditions making them the leading solution for indoor and outdoor photoluminescent illuminated egress exit guidance system applications. Ecoglo Photoluminescent Exit Signs and Emergency Exit Pathmarking signs, are
You realize that you need to provide a Tactile Solution for one of your projects. The solution needs to comply with the most recent AODA, CSA, ISO, Provincial and National Building Codes..
Just determine if you have to install the solution on an existing surface or into fresh concrete and if it is for indicating a danger or a safe path. Put this information into the request quote form or call us and you’ll have the right solution quoted within 24 hours
It’s easy! – Our quote includes freight cost, product availability, product data sheets, product drawings and installation instructions. Now, you are ready to implement your tactile solution efficiently, well scheduled and code compliant
All solutions offered are up-to-date code compliant with nationwide federal and provincial accessibility laws and building regulations, creating safe pathmarking guidance and attention warning detectability.
All solutions offered focus on upgrading or implementing accessibility routes. These tactile solutions provide safe accessible environments for people with vision loss. All product solutions meet the most rigorous test requirements and comply with AODA, CSA, ISO, FADS and IFC standards.
Tactile Walking Surface Indicators are perfect for any space where the safety of the visually impaired is a concern. All products are reliable, easy to install, and help prevent slips, falls or other dangerous situations.
Tactile attention domes serve as warning indicators for dangerous or hazardous conditions ahead and the wayfinding bars safely guide pedestrians down their path.
26th Sep 2023
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.
26th Sep 2023
Creating accessible and navigable public spaces is a crucial responsibility for urban planners, architects, and building owners. For individuals with visual disabilities, seamlessly orienting and traversing unfamiliar environments poses daily challenges.
Thoughtfully designed tactile wayfinding offers invaluable sensory cues that empower visually impaired citizens to navigate public spaces confidently and independently. As Canada's leading provider of tactile wayfinding solutions, we outline key considerations for planning inclusive tactile wayfinding in public spaces.
Tactile wayfinding refers to the use of standardized textured ground surface indicators that assist pedestrians who are blind or have low vision by providing directional cues and orientation information. These indicators, commonly called wayfinding tiles or tactile guidance paths, contain raised bars, cones, or grooved patterns installed along pedestrian circulation routes.
By using their cane or feet to detect these tactile cues, visually impaired individuals can discern pathways and amenity locations. Tactile wayfinding enables accessible, independent mobility.
For citizens with visual disabilities, navigating unfamiliar, complex public environments can be daunting. Lack of accessible wayfinding hampers their mobility and prevents equal access to public services and recreational spaces.
Thoughtfully designed tactile wayfinding fosters independence and confidence by providing an intuitive navigation channel. By consulting standards like the CSA B651 and integrating compliant wayfinding tiles in spaces like transit hubs, museums, parks, and malls, planners enable seamless accessibility.
When planning tactile wayfinding systems, consider the following key factors:
Analyze how key origin and destination points within the public space will be linked via accessible pathways marked by tactile indicators. For example, wayfinding tiles can trace routes from transit station entrances to ticket booths, platforms, and exits.
Observe user movement patterns within the space to determine appropriate wayfinding tile placement and routing. Mark the most logical and accessible routes connecting key user areas.
Adhere to relevant provincial and national accessibility standards and building codes, including the AODA and CSA B651, which provide tactile wayfinding specifications.
Maintain consistency in wayfinding tile color, material, texture pattern, and installation methodology throughout the site for cohesiveness and usability.
Wayfinding tiles should enable intuitive orientation by linking together in a logical layout. Cues for direction changes, such as truncated domes at 90-degree turns, are helpful.
Avoid visual clutter and obstacles along tactile routes. Maintain clear sight lines for individuals using canes to optimize usability.
Seamlessly connect tactile wayfinding paths between indoor and outdoor areas and across changes in elevation using ramps, elevators etc.
Choose wayfinding tiles made of durable, slip-resistant materials suitable for heavy pedestrian traffic. Popular options are vitrified polymer composites, metals, porcelain, and ceramic.
Select tile colors that contrast surrounding surfaces for optimal visibility. Prioritize bright, vibrant colors and lower-glare finishes.
Assess wayfinding tile maintainability, modularity, and replacement requirements. Opt for medium to long lifespans of 10-25+ years.
Consider potential underfoot noise from wayfinding tiles. Porcelain, ceramic, and rubber tiles offer quieter alternatives.
Consult Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) representatives and visually impaired citizens to gain feedback on wayfinding design.
Leverage guidance from accessibility consultants and manufacturers like Tactile Solutions with extensive tactile wayfinding expertise.
By proactively planning tactile wayfinding infrastructure, urban designers and architects can seamlessly transform public spaces to enable accessibility for all citizens, regardless of ability. The considerations above, combined with engagement from visually impaired users and guidance from experts like Tactile Solutions, are key to creating accessible environments.
Some examples of effective public space tactile wayfinding include:
By consulting accessibility standards and proactively planning tactile wayfinding infrastructure, stakeholders can transform public realm spaces into beacons of accessibility that foster mobility and independence for all citizens.
As Canada's premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solutions partners with urban planners, architects, and property managers to integrate compliant tactile wayfinding systems that make public spaces seamlessly accessible.
Our extensive product range includes industry-leading wayfinding tiles from trusted brands like:
Designed for simple installation, weather resistance, and long-lasting performance, our wayfinding products transform public spaces into beacons of accessibility.
A. Key public spaces that call for compliant tactile wayfinding are transit hubs, civic plazas, shopping malls, parks, sidewalks, entertainment venues, tourism sites, and government/institutional facilities.
A.It provides a safe navigation channel for the blind or visually impaired to orient themselves and traverse spaces independently via reliable underfoot cues.
A.The key regulations are the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), CSA B651 Standard on Barrier-Free Design, and various provincial building codes.
A.Tiles can be surface-mounted on existing flooring using adhesive or mechanical fasteners. They can also be embedded into fresh concrete or asphalt for new construction.
Tactile wayfinding infrastructure thoughtfully planned in accordance with leading standards creates accessible and navigable public realm facilities. By consulting experts like Tactile Solutions Canada and engaging visually impaired citizens, urban designers can employ compliant wayfinding tiles to transform public spaces into beacons of accessibility and inclusivity.
26th Sep 2023
In recent years, installing tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) has become an indispensable part of designing public spaces and facilities in Canada. TWSIs, also known as detectable warning surfaces, are standardized textured ground surfaces that convey critical information to pedestrians through touch and sound cues. They are vital in enhancing accessibility and safety for all users, especially those with visual impairments.
However, even with the growing awareness of TWSIs' importance, many public and private spaces remain non-compliant regarding required tactile installations. This non-adherence poses severe liability risks for property owners, facility managers, contractors, and architects if accidents or injuries occur due to the lack of proper tactile warnings.
This blog explores the importance of tactile code compliance in Canada and outlines key liability risks for stakeholders regarding TWSIs.
In Canada, tactile installation requirements are mandated by various federal, provincial, and municipal regulations, most notably:
These regulations require TWSIs to be installed in some public regions to warn pedestrians with vision impairments about potential hazards like stairs, curbs, platform edges, intersections, etc. Compliance is crucial from both an ethical and legal standpoint.
By failing to adhere to tactile installation codes, property owners and constructors deny persons with disabilities their right to accessible infrastructure, putting them at risk of accidents. It reflects poorly on an organization’s commitment to inclusivity and universal design.
Violating mandated tactile installation codes and standards poses several significant legal risks:
Lack of required TWSI installations means hazards like unexpected stairs, curbs, ramps, etc., go undetected. This significantly increases the chances of trip and fall accidents for pedestrians with vision loss. Any resulting injuries can lead to costly litigation and compensation claims against property owners.
Breaching provincial and municipal accessibility legislation can attract heavy fines and penalties. For example, violating the AODA can incur fines of up to $100,000 per day for organizations, plus potential damage suits.
Legal penalties combined with media coverage of accidents can also lead to substantial reputational damage for owners, negatively impacting property values, leasing, and public perception.
If scandals or accidents occur, there will be eventual costs for retroactive tactile installation and upgrades to become compliant. Taking a proactive approach right from the planning and construction phase is wiser.
Here are some tips to ensure tactile code compliance and mitigate risks:
Constructors, designers, and property managers need to be well-versed with Canada’s major tactile compliance codes:
The AODA is a landmark accessibility legislation in Ontario that mandates the installation of TWSIs at public facilities. The Design of Public Spaces Standards under AODA provides detailed technical specifications on required tactile installations at various public spaces like sidewalks, crosswalks, transit platforms, recreational trails, play spaces, etc. It also imposes heavy fines for non-compliance.
The OBC legally governs construction across Ontario. Section 3.8 on barrier-free design prescribes TWSI requirements for buildings, including specifications on types of TWSIs and correct locations for installation like stairs, curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, platform edges, etc. It sets the minimum legally required tactile installations.
Canada's nationally recognized B651 standard provides comprehensive specifications on TWSIs. It sets optimal technical requirements for tactile surface dimensions, materials, color/tonal contrast, placement locations, etc., for enhanced accessibility. While voluntary, the CSA standard represents industry best practices.
Municipal governments like Toronto also impose bylaws and facility accessibility policies mandating and regulating the installation of TWSIs at public facilities within their jurisdiction. These codes should be consulted for any localized tactile requirements.
In recent years, multiple high-profile lawsuits and human rights complaints have been filed against public and private property owners related to the lack of mandated TWSIs leading to accidents and injuries.
Such outcomes illustrate the enormous risk posed by non-compliance with tactile installation codes. Being proactive about the proper tactile application per all relevant regulations can help avoid tragic accidents while demonstrating a solid commitment to creating infrastructure that is accessible and inclusive to all.
Some typical locations requiring compliant TWSI application per codes like the AODA, OBC, and CSA B651 are stairs, curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, transit platforms, escalators, hotel room balconies, playgrounds, recreational trails, parking lots, food courts, etc.
Consequences include heavy fines of up to $100,000 daily, lawsuits and damage claims by injured persons, orders to retrofit inaccessible facilities, negative publicity, and reputational damage.
Liability extends to all parties involved in the design and construction process, including property owners, facility managers, developers, architects, contractors, and construction companies.
Typical solutions include metal, durable polymer, rubber, porcelain, or concrete TWSIs installed via surface-mounting, embedding into fresh concrete, replacing existing tiles with compliant tactile tiles, etc.
By selecting high-quality tactile products from reputable suppliers like Tactile Solution Canada, having proper installation by trained professionals, and conducting routine maintenance checks and prompt replacement when any wear/damage is detected, facilities in Canada can stay accessible, durable, and code-compliant over time.
26th Sep 2023
Canada prides itself on being an inclusive, welcoming, and accessible society for all. However, for over 6 million Canadians living with disabilities, navigating the built environment poses daily challenges. Disability statistics in Canada reveal the pressing need to create more accessible, barrier-free infrastructure and public spaces.
This blog delves into the latest data on Canadians with disabilities and explains how it underscores the importance of investing in accessible design, including tactile guidance systems and hazard warnings. We will also explore how Tactile Solution Canada’s products can equip builders, architects, and property managers to meet accessibility obligations.
Recent data from Statistics Canada provides insights into the prevalence of disability across the Canadian population:
This cross-section of Canadian society faces diverse functional limitations in seeing, hearing, mobility, flexibility, dexterity, pain, learning, mental health, memory, and more. These impede their full participation in society.
For persons with disabilities, the design of infrastructure and public spaces frequently poses barriers to accessibility:
Such barriers infringe on rights, isolate citizens, and exclude valuable perspectives. They highlight the need for accessibility-focused design.
The disability data presents a compelling case for accessibility in Canada:
Federal, provincial, and municipal regulations mandate accessibility and barrier-free design in infrastructure projects across Canada:
These laws require public spaces and buildings to integrate accessibility features like ramps, wayfinding aids, tactile surfaces, and visual cues.
As a pioneering provider of tactile solutions in Canada, Tactile Solution partners with builders, architects, and property managers to integrate accessibility into public spaces and building projects.
Our product portfolio includes essential tactile systems like:
These solutions promote accessibility and universal design through:
By investing in compliant tactile design, forward-thinking builders and property managers create welcoming environments where all citizens can participate fully.
Major regulations mandating accessibility compliance for infrastructure projects include the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), provincial building codes, CSA accessibility standards, and municipal bylaws.
Disabilities that can impede accessing public realms include vision loss, hearing impairments, mobility limitations requiring wheelchairs or walkers, chronic pain, and cognitive disabilities.
Tactile guidance paths and hazard indicators provide critical navigation cues and warnings through touch and visual contrast to pedestrians with vision loss.
Key locations requiring compliant tactile tiles or pavers are transit platforms, sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, building entrances, stairs, parks, and parking areas.
The prevalence of disability across age groups and genders indicates a widespread need for accessibility. This data supports the business case for organizations to invest in inclusive design.
The need for accessible infrastructure is clear - over 6 million Canadians face barriers when navigating the built environment. Universal design benefits us all.
As Canada works towards its 2040 accessibility goals, organizations like Tactile Solution Canada equip stakeholders with practical solutions to transform spaces. Contact us today to make accessibility a reality.
6th Sep 2023
In public realm design, tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) serve a vital role in enhancing accessibility and safety for pedestrians with vision impairments. TWSIs provide standardized textured ground surfaces that convey essential navigational cues and hazard warnings through the sense of touch.
Two key types of TWSIs exist—warning tactile and guidance tactile. But what exactly sets them apart? In this blog post, we’ll explore the crucial differences between these two indispensable tactile systems.
Also known as attention or hazard tactile indicators, warning tactile signify potential dangers present along the path of travel. Warning tactile typically feature:
Warning tactile’s textured pattern alerts pedestrians to stop, assess their surroundings, and proceed with caution. They notify individuals with vision impairments about impending drop-offs, obstacles, or changes in elevation.
Some prime locations where warning tactile provide vital hazard cues include:
Warning tactile along the platform edge prevents accidental slips and falls onto the tracks.
Warning tiles at transitions from sidewalk to street caution users about the level change.
Warning tiles mark door thresholds to indicate the change in elevation.
Warning patterns at stair nosings signal upcoming stairs.
Warning tactile defines the crossing point before vehicle routes.
Warning tactile forewarn users of moving staircases.
Guidance tactile, also called directional or wayfinding tactile, provides orientation cues to guide pedestrians along appropriate circulation routes. Guidance tactile common feature:
The linear bars give pedestrians tactile information about the safe direction of movement and path location. Guidance or tactile wayfinding enables intuitive wayfinding, especially in large open spaces.
Some key locations where guidance tactile direct and orient pedestrians include:
Guidance tactile directs passengers to platforms, ticket counters, exits, etc.
Guidance patterns guide users safely across open plazas and fields.
Guidance tactile leads from entrances to reception desks, elevators, and other areas.
Guidance patterns direct users through sprawling complexes.
Now that we’ve covered both systems independently, let’s examine how warning and guidance tactile differ:
When employing TWSIs in public realm design, it’s crucial to follow Canadian accessibility guidelines and regulations. Relevant codes and standards include:
Compliant tactile not only fulfill legal obligations but also create consistently accessible and interpretable cues that enhance public safety.
The two main types are warning/attention tactile, that caution about hazards, and guidance/wayfinding tactile, which directs along safe paths.
Warning tactile is used at platform edges, curb ramps, apartment/condo buildings, stairs, pedestrian crossings, etc. Guidance tactile is installed along walkways and circulation routes.
Yes, warning and guidance tactile work in tandem. Guidance paths often begin/end with warning tiles indicating upcoming hazards or decision points.
Relevant regulations include the AODA, CSA B651, Ontario Building Code, and National Building Code of Canada.
As Canada’s premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada offers a wide selection of compliant warning and guidance tactile systems from trusted brands like:
Let our team of experts recommend the optimal tactile systems for your next public project. Contact Tactile Solution Canada today!
6th Sep 2023
Tactile surfaces such as detectable warning pavers, tiles, and plates serve a vital purpose in enhancing accessibility and navigation for individuals with visual disabilities. The humble beginnings of these textured ground indicators have blossomed into an indispensable infrastructure component that promotes mobility and independence.
In this blog, we'll explore some key milestones in the evolutionary journey of tactile surfaces. Understanding this history provides insight into how these accessible design elements came to transform public spaces.
The genesis of tactile paving traces back to post-World War II Japan. After the war, Japan's cities saw an influx of veterans with visual disabilities. This highlighted the need for urban design features to assist navigation.
In 1965, Seiichi Miyake, an engineering student at Okayama University, developed an innovative solution - textured blocks with raised domes and bars detectable by foot and cane. His invention was inspired by Braille blocks.
In 1965 itself, Miyake's tactile blocks were installed for the first time at a street crossing in Okayama City. This pioneering installation near a school for the blind kickstarted the tactile paving revolution.
Soon after, the textured blocks spread across Japan at pedestrian crossings to promote safety. Their runaway success led to the adoption of national railways across transit platforms nationwide.
By 1985, tactile paving was ubiquitous in Japan. That year, it was formally christened “Hazard Guide for the Visually Impaired.”
Color coding also helped users interpret different blocks. This formalized tactile system accelerated accessible urban growth across Japan.
In the 1990s, tactile paving expanded beyond Japan, becoming recognized internationally as an indispensable tool for accessible design.
The ADA in the US, Australia’s Disability Discrimination Act, and the UK’s Department for Transport helped proliferate tactile paving by setting standards.
By the late 1990s, tactile blocks were ubiquitous across transit platforms and pedestrian walkways in major cities across North America, Europe, and Oceania.
Canada actively adopted tactile systems starting in the 1990s across transportation infrastructure. In the 2000s, integration spread to the wider public realm via provincial and municipal accessibility laws.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) currently mandates tactile installation in all new and renovated public spaces across the province.
Today, tactile paving is entrenched worldwide as an indispensable accessibility solution. With the population aging, chronic illnesses, and mobility device usage increasing, the importance of tactile surfaces grows each year.
Tactile surfaces allow users of all abilities to access outdoor recreation, transit systems, pedestrian routes, businesses, and public services independently and safely.
The evolution of voluntary accessible design into enforceable regulations and standards has helped drive universal adoption. Tactile surfaces now seamlessly blend into urban landscapes as an intuitive accessibility aid.
Tactile solutions like detectable warning tiles and plates are vital in making infrastructure accessible for multiple reasons:
Tactile surfaces allow people with visual disabilities to navigate safely using senses like touch and hearing. The textured cues provide spatial awareness, directionality, and hazard warnings.
Tactile plates transform unfamiliar, complex environments into navigable spaces by providing a mental map. This allows for exploration with confidence, independence, and security.
Tactile patterns placed strategically help users detect and avoid dangers like platform edges, busy intersections, and stairs through tactile feedback.
Installing compliant tactile surfaces satisfies legal obligations under disability legislation like the AODA, ADA, and building codes.
Standardized installation ensures uniformity in how warnings and cues are conveyed across regions. This consistency enables intuitive interpretation.
By facilitating accessible navigation, tactile surfaces encourage fuller participation in community life, from parks to libraries to arenas.
In Canada, tactile installations must adhere to accessibility legislation and standards. Key regulations include:
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
Thanks to inclusive design advocacy, rigorous testing, and human-centered innovation, tactile surfaces have evolved into an indispensable component of accessibility.
Ongoing research aims to enhance detectability and aesthetics using technologies like RFID-embedded and LED-integrated tiles. As populations age and diversify, the need for accessible infrastructure only grows.
Tactile wayfinding and hazard warning solutions continue advancing in lockstep with progressive social values of equity, mobility, and independence.
The future looks bright for tactile surfaces to play an ever-greater role in crafting barrier-free, welcoming communities that leave no one behind. The universal adoption of these inclusive design elements is a mark of societies progressing towards accessibility for all citizens.
Tactile paving was invented in 1965 by Japanese engineering student Seiichi Miyake, who was inspired by Braille.
The first ever use of tactile paving was in 1965 at a street crossing in Okayama City, Japan, near a school for the blind.
Tactile paving was introduced in North America in the 1990s after the ADA and Disability Discrimination Act set detectable warning standards.
Common tactile paving materials are durable polymers, metals, porcelain, rubber, concrete, and engineered composite plastics.
Tactile surfaces provide standardized tactile and audio cues to help visually impaired pedestrians detect hazards, navigate safely, avoid disorientation, and travel independently.
As Canada's leading tactile solutions provider, Tactile Solutions Canada offers premium products to make infrastructure accessible. Our extensive range includes:
Let our team of experts recommend optimal solutions for your next public space project. Contact Tactile Solutions Canada today!
6th Sep 2023
Navigating expansive public spaces like transit stations, stadiums, and shopping malls can be challenging, especially for individuals with visual disabilities. Photoluminescent wayfinding solutions provide illuminated visual cues that guide users safely and intuitively toward key locations and exits, even in pitch-dark conditions.
As per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), integrating proper wayfinding systems is crucial for creating accessible public realms. Photoluminescent wayfinding leverages glow-in-the-dark technology to provide continuous non-visual orientation when the lights are out.
Let’s explore the top 7 benefits of photoluminescent wayfinding solutions:
Photoluminescent wayfinding absorbs and stores ambient light, emitting a bright glow when darkness falls. The luminescence lasts for hours, providing a clear path even after the lights are switched off. This 24/7 visibility aids navigation at any time of day or night.
As photoluminescent wayfinding is self-illuminated, it remains fully functional even if electricity fails. The autonomous glow provides reliable visual orientation when exit signs and indoor lighting shut off due to blackouts or emergencies.
Photoluminescent wayfinding adheres to crucial codes like the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards for egress markings. Using compliant systems protects from penalties and lawsuits.
The bright glow pierces through smoke, fog, and pitch darkness. This clear visibility enables safe evacuation and navigation when visibility is near-zero during fires or disasters.
Tactile directional cues guide blind or low-vision individuals along appropriate circulation paths, allowing independent movement through unfamiliar public spaces.
With no need for electricity or batteries, photoluminescent wayfinding is energy-efficient and eco-friendly. This saves energy costs over traditional electrically powered signs.
Available in customizable sizes and colors, photoluminescent strips and markers blend into the interior aesthetic. The discreet integration provides visibility without compromising interior design.
Tactile Solutions Canada offers a wide range of photoluminescent wayfinding products from trusted manufacturers like Ecoglo. Our top products include:
Ecoglo Photoluminescent Running Man Exit Signs – Highly visible directional exit signs to mark egress pathways.
Photoluminescent Stair Edge Nosing Glued or Screwed to Existent Surface or Put into Wet Concrete – Marking of staircase edges for improved visibility and safety.
With over a decade of experience supplying wayfinding solutions in Canada, we are the go-to experts on code-compliant photoluminescent systems. Our team provides product recommendations tailored to your unique application and specifications.
They absorb and store ambient light, requiring no batteries or electricity. The stored energy is emitted as a glow in the darkness.
Large public spaces like transit hubs, theaters, stadiums, offices, malls, and apartments need compliant wayfinding systems.
Most systems glow up to 70 hours on a 30-60-minute charge. The glow duration depends on the light exposure and material efficiency.
Quality photoluminescent wayfinding solutions can have a lifespan exceeding 25 years with minimal deterioration.
It provides 24/7 visibility, reliability during power failures, code compliance, smoke visibility, intuitive access for blind and low-vision users, and energy efficiency.
Photoluminescent wayfinding solutions enable business managers, owners, architects, and contractors to make public spaces optimally navigable for all citizens, especially those with disabilities. By investing in compliant systems, you can create an infrastructure that is accessible, inclusive, and perceptible regardless of abilities or surrounding conditions.
As a full-service Canadian supplier of photoluminescent signage and AODA, CSA, ISO, and IFC code-compliant (TWSI) tactile tiles, Tactile Solutions Canada is your ideal partner for wayfinding projects. Our team of experts makes compliance simple by recommending properly tested and approved products tailored specifically for your application's size, aesthetics, codes, and accessibility needs.
Bring our luminous wayfinding solutions on board and see your public space transformed with round-the-clock accessibility! Contact our team today to make your next project glow.
30th Aug 2023
Navigating through public spaces can be challenging for individuals with visual impairments. Having proper wayfinding solutions in place is crucial to ensure accessibility and safety for the visually impaired. Tactile wayfinding uses specialized textures and indicators to guide users and provide important spatial information non-visually through the sense of touch.
As per accessibility legislation in Canada, implementing compliant tactile wayfinding solutions in public spaces is a legal obligation. This guide will explore what tactile wayfinding entails, how it helps the visually impaired, types of solutions and standards for optimal implementation. Read out to know:
Tactile wayfinding utilizes standardized ground surface textures comprising raised bars or indicators installed in walking areas. These tactile cues serve to outline paths of travel and key points like amenities, exits, and turnings through distinctive patterns that can be felt underfoot or with a cane.
There are two main purposes tactile wayfinding serves:
Well-executed tactile wayfinding enables visually impaired individuals to navigate safely and independently within environments by providing physical directional prompts detectable through touch.
Thoughtfully implemented tactile wayfinding confers several advantages for enhancing accessibility:
There are multiple options available when specifying tactile wayfinding solutions:
These are installed on existing hard surfaces using adhesive. It is ideal for retrofit projects with no demolition needed.
These are installed directly into freshly poured concrete. It is suited for new construction. Provide permanent tactile guidance.
Discrete bars screwed into existing surfaces. It is for smaller-scale applications.
Uses glow-in-the-dark photoluminescent strips. It provides illumination in the darkness.
Based on factors like setting, foot traffic, visibility needs and budget, appropriate solutions can be adapted to provide compliant and consistent tactile wayfinding.
To ensure effectiveness, tactile wayfinding solutions must adhere to certain guidelines and codes. Key specifications as per CSA B651 include:
Following recognized standards ensures tactile wayfinding is implemented thoughtfully by maximizing accessibility, detectability and safety.
Here are some key public environments that benefit from properly integrated tactile wayfinding:
Careful installation of compliant tactile wayfinding networks spanning key pedestrian zones makes public spaces more usable for citizens of all abilities.
Proper installation and care ensure longevity of tactile wayfinding solutions:
With conscientious installation and maintenance, tactile wayfinding solutions will provide enhanced accessibility and experience for years.
Tactile Solution Canada offers the widest range of compliant tactile wayfinding solutions from trusted brands like Access Tile, Armor Tile, Advantage Tile and Ecoglo. Our offerings are:
To learn more about tactile wayfinding or to get product recommendations from our experts, contact Tactile Solutions Canada today!
The two main purposes are to provide directional guidance along appropriate pedestrian paths and circulation routes and enable spatial mapping of environments.
Tactile wayfinding is mandated in all public spaces like sidewalks, parks, transit platforms, airports, office lobbies, retail stores, government buildings as per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
Major types are surface-applied tactile tiles, cast-in-place tactile tiles, metal tactile tiles, individual embedded bars, and photoluminescent wayfinding strips.
Key considerations are indoor/outdoor setting, new or retrofit construction, expected footfall, ability to replace tiles, costs, visibility needs and compliance with standards.
With high-quality installation and materials, tactile wayfinding solutions can last 10-15 years with minimal replacement needs beyond periodic replacement of damaged tiles
30th Aug 2023
In public buildings across Canada, glowing green emergency exit signs are becoming a more common sight. But how exactly do these photoluminescent exit signs work their magic to illuminate emergency exit routes even when the lights go out? Read on for a science explainer demystifying the inner workings of photoluminescent exit signs and their benefits.
Photoluminescent exit signs rely on the phenomenon of “photoluminescence” to operate without electricity. Photoluminescence refers to the ability of certain materials to absorb, store, and emit light energy. These photoluminescent materials include phosphors like strontium aluminate and zinc sulfide.
When exposed to ambient light, the phosphors get energized. The absorbed photons excite the phosphors’ electrons to a higher energy state. When the ambient light source disappears, these excited electrons fall back to their normal state, emitting the excess energy as visible light. Hence the photoluminescent material seems to “glow in the dark” after being charged.
Photoluminescent exit signs contain non-toxic photoluminescent materials integrated into panels or strips. These get charged when exposed to any ambient light source, whether natural daylight entering through windows or ordinary indoor overhead lighting.
Once fully charged, the energized phosphor-infused panels glow brightly in dim or dark conditions. The glow emitted is a lime green color that meets international standards for exit sign illumination.
The glow duration depends on the strength and duration of the initial charging:
This ability to “recharge” themselves using surrounding environmental light makes photoluminescent exit signs completely self-powered and sustainable. They require no external electricity or batteries to operate in dark conditions.
Photoluminescent exit signs offer numerous advantages that make them an ideal emergency lighting solution:
Photoluminescent exit signs are completely unaffected by electricity disruptions and will keep glowing in blackouts when traditional electric exit signs may fail. This unmatched reliability during emergencies ensures exit routes remain visible for safe egress.
By tapping into ambient light, photoluminescent signs consume zero energy. This saves on electricity costs and carbon footprint. They are an eco-friendly, sustainable solution.
3. Durable for Years
Photoluminescent materials retain their luminosity for over a decade. The signs have a lifespan of 15+ years, unlike electric exit signs requiring regular battery replacements.
4. Highly Visible Photoluminescent Glow
The bright green glow of the signs is designed to meet international standards for exit sign illumination. This high visibility captures attention quickly.
5. Fire and Moisture Resistant
The photoluminescent material is non-flammable and continues glowing even in humid or wet conditions. This makes the signs suitable even for outdoor applications.
6. Easy Maintenance
Photoluminescent exit signs have no electrical components and require only occasional cleaning. This saves on maintenance overhead.
Photoluminescent exit signs meet rigorous visibility standards defined in building codes and EN standards for emergency lighting. This ensures legal compliance.
Photoluminescent exit signs are fast replacing traditional electrically-powered exit signs as the new code-compliant standard across Canada and worldwide.
The incentive is the latest building codes and accessibility regulations that promote sustainable designs. For example:
The National Building Code of Canada (NBC) states that newly constructed buildings must incorporate designs and technology that reduce environmental impact and energy consumption. This makes photoluminescent exit signs an ideal eco-friendly solution for new buildings.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act or AODA mandates enhanced visibility of exit routes through photoluminescent markings. Photoluminescent exit signs help fulfill this legislation.
Provincial codes like the Ontario Building Code (OBC) also reference NBC and AODA in their standards for increased accessibility. By aligning with the latest codes, builders, and facility managers ensure their projects meet regulatory standards while benefiting from the advantages and energy savings that photoluminescent exit signs offer.
To comply with emergency lighting codes, photoluminescent exit signs are required in nearly all public buildings. Some key locations include:
Unlike photoluminescent exit signs, traditional electrical exit signs rely on external power and have high operating and maintenance costs.
Electric exit signs require professional hardwiring into the electrical system. Their illumination depends entirely on the power supply. In a power outage, they cease functioning, causing emergency visibility issues.
Electric exit signs consume energy continuously, even when the building is unoccupied, leading to high energy bills. Battery-powered variants need frequent and costly battery replacements every 1-2 years.
In contrast, photoluminescent signs leverage natural or ambient light at no added energy cost. Their simple plug-and-play installation also saves on labor costs compared to electrical hardwiring. With a lifespan of 15+ years, they have minimal maintenance needs.
By choosing sustainable photoluminescent exit signs, builders and facility managers see a quick return on investment while enhancing building safety and meeting codes.
They contain non-toxic phosphors that get energized by surrounding ambient light. The energized phosphors emit a green glow when the lights go out, illuminating the exit signs in darkness.
Canadian codes mandate photoluminescent exit signs in nearly all public buildings and facilities, including offices, malls, airports, health facilities, educational institutes, and residential complexes.
No, photoluminescent exit signs are 100% self-powered and require no electrical connection or batteries. They operate by absorbing surrounding ambient light.
After 30-60 minutes of charging under indoor lighting, photoluminescent exit signs emit 70+ hours of visibility in darkness. Brighter ambient light results in a longer glow duration.
Key benefits are no wiring required, zero energy consumption, a long 15+ year lifespan, high emergency reliability, and low maintenance.
As a leading Canadian supplier of accessible building solutions, Tactile Solution Canada offers UL-certified photoluminescent running man exit signs from trusted manufacturers like Ecoglo.
Our Ecoglo exit signs offer bright green photoluminescent illumination visible up to 75 feet. Some key features:
Our team of experts can recommend the ideal exit signage to enhance emergency preparedness, meet Canadian codes, and create a sustainable building equipped for the future.
To make your next project safer, greener, and more code-compliant, explore our range of Exit Signs today!
30th Aug 2023
Accessibility is a fundamental human right that allows people with disabilities to participate fully in society. In Canada, various laws and regulations at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels aim to make public and private spaces accessible.
For those involved in construction, renovation, or facility management, understanding the critical accessibility codes is crucial to ensure compliance. When it comes to tactile warning systems that assist the visually impaired, some essential standards and regulations apply across Canada. Let’s explore the most important ones.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is a landmark provincial legislation passed in 2005. Its goal is to make Ontario fully accessible for people with disabilities by 2025.
AODA standards set accessibility requirements in 5 key areas:
The Design of Public Spaces standard directly relates to tactile warning systems. It covers technical specifications for public spaces like:
For contractors, the AODA Design of Public Spaces standard legally mandates installing compliant tactile warning systems in indoor and outdoor public spaces. This makes AODA the foremost accessibility regulation in Ontario to consult for tactile projects.
The CSA Group develops standards incorporated into Canada’s National Building Code (NBC). When it comes to tactile warnings, CSA B651 is the authority.
This comprehensive standard specifies the technical requirements for tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs). It provides guidelines on:
CSA B651 is aligned with global standards like ISO 23599 on tactile walking surfaces. By adhering to CSA B651, contractors can be assured that their tactile installations will meet strict dimensional, durability, visual contrast, and placement regulations.
Canada’s National Building Code (NBC) sets out technical provisions for constructing new buildings and renovations. It references vital accessibility requirements from CSA standards on tactile warning surfaces.
The NBC demands a minimum level of accessibility in all new construction and renovations through features like:
Meeting NBC requirements necessitates installing compliant tactile warning systems at specific locations. Being the national benchmark, the NBC is a crucial code for tactile installations.
Alongside the national standards, provincial and municipal building codes contain additional accessibility rules tailored to local needs.
For example, Ontario’s Building Code specifies supplementary requirements for new construction and renovations in the province. It adopts the NBC’s accessibility provisions and CSA tactile surface standards.
Municipalities like Toronto also issue their building code requirements and facility access standards. These local codes should be cross-checked to ensure complete compliance.
The IFC contains provisions related to fire safety in new and existing buildings. Section 1024 on Luminous Egress Path Markings mandates photoluminescent markings to delineate exit paths in many occupancy types.
Photoluminescent wayfinding strips, stair nosings, handrails, and door exit signs aid safe evacuation during fire emergencies by remaining illuminated even when lighting fails. IFC-compliant photoluminescent tactile systems can be crucial to creating a compliant facility per the code’s life safety objectives.
The Barrier-Free Design Standards issued by Public Services and Procurement Canada apply to federal buildings like post offices, border crossings, etc. These standards align with CSA requirements and provide schematics, drawings, and specifications related to accessibility.
Tactile warning strip standards are provided for stairs, pedestrian crossings, platform edges, etc. Adherence to these federal standards is mandatory for construction and renovations initiated by Public Services and Procurement Canada.
As Canada’s premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada partners with architects, contractors, and facility managers to integrate compliant tactile systems in projects across sectors. Our product portfolio includes trusted solutions like:
These industry-leading solutions are:
By consulting us early in your project, we can recommend optimal tactile solutions to fulfill Canadian accessibility regulations and protect from risks of non-compliance.
The primary federal, provincial, and local accessibility laws are provincial building codes, CSA standards, municipal bylaws, and the National Building Code of Canada.
Key areas are transit platforms, curb ramps, building entrances, commercial washrooms, stairs, pedestrian crossings, and parking areas.
Durable metal, engineered polymer, and porcelain tactile suit heavy-duty exterior use.
High-caliber tactile warning systems require minimal maintenance beyond inspecting for damage and replacing individual damaged sections as needed.
Let Tactile Solution Canada be your partner in creating safely accessible commercial, institutional, and public environments. Get in touch with our experts to learn more about equipping your next project with code-compliant tactile warning systems specially tailored to your needs.
17th Aug 2023
In Canada, over 8 million people live with some form of vision disease or impairment. This includes conditions like low vision, color blindness, partial sight, and legal blindness. For those with visual disabilities, navigating public spaces can prove challenging. However, thoughtful urban design and infrastructure modifications can make built environments more accessible.
One such indispensable accessibility tool is tactile warning systems. These specialized textured ground surfaces provide vital navigational cues and information to pedestrians with vision impairments. Tactile warning systems, also called detectable warning surfaces, are mandated in Canada by accessibility legislation like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
As a leading provider of accessibility solutions, Tactile Solution Canada offers a wide range of code-compliant tactile warning products for indoor and outdoor applications. Integrating proper tactile warning systems is key for Canadian contractors, architects, building managers, and owners striving to make infrastructure inclusive.
This blog explores the top 5 benefits of tactile warning systems in enabling accessibility and safety for the visually impaired.
Tactile warning systems allow individuals with vision loss to gather vital information about their immediate surroundings using senses like touch and hearing. The unique textures, like raised bumps or ridges, provide essential cues about potential hazards, directional guidance, and location orientation.
Equipped with these sensory cues from tactile surfaces, visually impaired pedestrians can navigate spaces confidently and independently. Tactile warning systems empower them with the freedom of movement to travel through public parks, transit stations, sidewalks, building interiors, and other urban infrastructure in a self-sufficient manner.
Tactile warning systems prominently highlight potential risks and hazards through standardized surface patterns that are easily identifiable non-visually. Warning indicators like truncated domes placed at locations like platform edges, staircases, and transit platforms caution users about impending dangers. This enhances safety by preventing potential missteps or accidents.
Guidance indicators like flat-topped bars installed along pedestrian walkways provide a safe path of travel for users to follow. This comprehensive hazard notification and directional guidance enabled by tactile warning systems is invaluable for mitigating safety risks.
Integrating proper tactile walking surfaces indicators (TWSIs) in public realm design and construction is mandated by Canadian accessibility legislation, including:
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)
Therefore, installing compliant tactile warning systems is not just about promoting inclusion but also meeting legal obligations. Using code-compliant tactile solutions demonstrates a commitment to creating accessibility.
Extensive research and testing have enabled the development of tactile warning standards and guidelines to create uniformity. The systematic, consistent use of solutions like truncated domes to indicate hazards and directional bars for path guidance provides crucial consistency.
Visually impaired individuals can rely on these familiar, standardized tactile patterns. The consistency enables them to intuitively interpret the cues from any city or province they visit. This boosts accessibility in public realm networks spanning communities.
While critical standards exist, tactile warning systems offer vast design flexibility. Solutions are available in diverse materials like durable polymer composites, slip-resistant metals, porcelain, and stainless steel. This allows for design customization and visual cohesion with surroundings.
Tactile products come in multiple sizes, colors, shapes, and installation methods to accommodate new builds or retrofits; whether an intricate art installation or a simple subway platform, customizable tactile warning systems suit diverse needs.
Common examples include detectable warning surfaces with truncated domes or directional guidance strips with elongated flat-topped bars installed on walking surfaces. Tactile warning pavers, tiles, and applied metal plates also serve as tactile warning systems.
Locations like sidewalk curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, transit platforms, building entrances, commercial spaces, parks, and parking areas require compliant tactile warning systems as per Canadian accessibility regulations.
Tactile warning systems can be constructed using materials like durable polymers, metals, porcelain, and rubber. The materials are chosen based on factors like application, code compliance, visibility, aesthetics, slip resistance, and accessibility standards.
Tactile warning systems provide standardized tactile and auditory cues to help visually impaired pedestrians detect potential hazards, navigate safely, avoid disorientation, and travel independently through public spaces.
With proper installation and robust materials like metals, quality tactile warning systems can last 10-15 years before needing replacement. More frequent replacement is needed for weaker materials like paints or plastics.
As Canada’s leading tactile solutions provider, Tactile Solution Canada offers premium products to make infrastructure accessible. Our extensive range includes:
Designed for easy installation, low maintenance, and long-lasting durability, our products make achieving accessibility compliance hassle-free. With in-house technical experts, we also provide guidance on integrating solutions into diverse urban contexts.
By investing in thoughtful tactile warning system design, urban planners, building managers, landscapers, and contractors in Canada can lead the charge in transforming public environments to be inclusive for all. Our team of accessibility specialists can help select compliant solutions tailored to your unique project needs.
To learn more about making infrastructure accessible with tactile warning systems, reach out to Tactile Solution Canada today!
17th Aug 2023
With fire safety being a major concern in public spaces and buildings, it is crucial for architects, contractors, business managers, and building owners to invest in solutions that enhance accessibility while meeting stringent fire code regulations. This is where Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile comes into the picture.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how these innovative tiles allow you to achieve both fire resistance and accessibility in one go!
Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile are detectable warning tiles specifically engineered for indoor applications in high-rise buildings over 7 floors. These tiles contain truncated domes that serve as Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI) to alert people with visual impairments about potential hazards or changes in direction.
These tiles are unique because they are made from FIRESENTRY-XTM - a proprietary composite material offering maximum flame spread resistance and minimal smoke development. This grants the tiles exceptional fire-retardant properties while retaining critical accessibility functions.
Access Tile® Fire Resistant tiles meet the rigorous flame spread and smoke development standards set by the ULC-S102.2 test method. This makes them fully compliant with the fire safety requirements of the Ontario Building Code (OBC).
Key Features:
These special composite tiles contain proprietary intumescent technology that makes them highly fire-resistant. When exposed to high heat and flames, the FIRESENTRY-XTM layer forms a thick foam char layer that acts as a barrier.
This thermal barrier significantly slows down the spread of fire and smoke, allowing more time for evacuation. The materials also have low smoke emissions, enhancing visibility during fires.
Additionally, the composite construction makes the tiles durable and strong enough to withstand high foot traffic. The truncated dome texture provides an essential tactile warning about potential hazards or level changes through contrasting texture.
One of the great benefits of Access Tile® tiles is their ease of installation. They can be easily installed over any existing floor through a straightforward process:
Access Tile® FR tiles present the ideal fire-rated tactile solution for various indoor settings, including:
Anywhere requiring accessibility features in a fire-rated space over 7 floors can benefit from these tiles. Their life-saving fire protection and accessibility make Access Tile® FR tiles a smart investment.
When selecting tactile tiles, it is crucial that they meet various accessibility and fire standards. Key regulations include:
By meeting these codes, Access Tile® Fire Resistant tiles check all boxes for compliant tactile flooring.
They are made from FIRESENTRY-XTM, a proprietary composite with intumescent technology that provides flame spread resistance and low smoke development.
Access Tile® FR tiles are specially mandated in high-rise buildings over 7 floors to meet Ontario Fire Code requirements.
Yes, the truncated dome pattern gives an essential tactile warning about potential hazards for people with vision loss.
These tiles come in multiple standard and custom sizes ranging from 12”x12” up to 24”x60” to suit layout needs.
Access Tile® provides a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty on the Fire Resistant tactile, ensuring peace of mind.
As Canada’s premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solutions Canada offers a wide range of compliant products from trusted brands like Access Tile® for your projects.
Our team of experts provides guidance on selecting optimal tactile tiles tailored to your unique specifications, ensuring seamless adherence to Canadian regulations.
Be both accessibility-ready and fire-safety-insured by contacting Tactile Solutions Canada today!
17th Aug 2023
In recent years, tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) have become integral to creating accessible public spaces in Canada. It helps visually impaired individuals navigate unfamiliar surrounding safely and confidently. But what exactly are TWSIs, and how do they enhance accessibility? This blog comprehensively introduces TWSIs - their purpose, different types, key applications, and benefits.
Tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) refer to textured ground surfaces that provide vital navigational cues to pedestrians who are blind or visually impaired. They consist of standardized distinguishable patterns installed on sidewalks, transit platforms, building entrances, and other walking areas.
TWSIs feature unique surface textures comprising raised domes and bars. These tactile textures are easily discernible underfoot or by using a cane. They convey essential information to pedestrians with visual disabilities about their surroundings and any upcoming hazards or direction changes.
TWSIs are mandated in public spaces as per accessibility legislation like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). They provide an invaluable sensory communication channel between infrastructure and individuals with vision loss.
There are two main types of TWSIs:
These indicate potential hazards ahead, like stairs, platform edges, intersections, or boarding zones. The typical texture is truncated domes in a square or radial pattern. They alert pedestrians to stop, assess the environment and proceed with caution.
These provide directional cues along appropriate pathways of travel. Common textures are raised parallel bars or grooved lines along the walking direction. They guide pedestrians along designated pedestrian routes.
Tactile walking surface indicators are utilized in various indoor and outdoor locations:
TWSIs provide immense benefits by enhancing accessibility and safety:
When specifying TWSIs, consider the following:
The two main types are attention/warning TWSIs that indicate hazards and guidance/wayfinding TWSIs that provide directional cues.
TWSIs are required at sidewalks, building entrances, transit platforms, pedestrian crossings, stairs, parks, lobby areas, and other public spaces.
They provide tactile cues that enable people with visual disabilities to detect potential hazards, navigate safely, and orient themselves within environments.
Common materials are metal alloys, engineered polymers, porcelain, rubber, and composite plastics.
At Tactile Solutions, we offers a wide selection of code-compliant TWSIs from trusted brands like:
Our TWSIs are engineered to be long-lasting, safe, and AODA/CSA compliant. With options tailored to every application, we help create accessible spaces that accommodate all users. Contact our experts today for ideal TWSIs that meet your project's unique specifications!
17th Aug 2023
Creating accessible and navigable spaces is crucial, especially for visually impaired individuals. Wayfinding tiles enhance accessibility by providing non-visual cues to guide users safely through public areas.
This comprehensive guide will explore what wayfinding tiles are, their significance, types, applications, installation, and codes & standards concerning wayfinding tiles in Canada.
Wayfinding tiles, also known as directional tiles or tactile guidance tiles, are specialized tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) designed to assist visually impaired individuals in navigating safely in public spaces.
These tiles contain raised bars that can be felt underfoot or by a cane. The bars are oriented in the direction of travel, providing a tactile cue for path navigation. Wayfinding tiles are installed in large open spaces to define accessible routes from point A to B for the visually impaired.
For individuals with visual disabilities, navigating unfamiliar, expansive spaces can be challenging. Wayfinding tiles provide an invaluable and accessible means of facilitating independent mobility.
Some key benefits of wayfinding tiles include the following:
Overall, wayfinding tiles crucially enhance accessibility, safety, and independence for blind or low-vision users in environments like transit stations, shopping malls, offices, etc.
Wayfinding tiles are available in various materials, sizes, colors, and installation formats. Common options include:
Wayfinding tiles have diverse applications across indoor and outdoor settings, including:
Indoors:
Wayfinding tiles can be installed along accessibility routes leading from entryways to key destinations like information desks, elevators, escalators, stairs, transit platforms, etc. They provide continuous tactile guidance throughout the space.
For optimal effectiveness, wayfinding tiles must adhere to certain specifications per accessibility guidelines and codes. Key specifications include:
Several crucial regulations and standards concerning wayfinding tiles must be complied with in public installations in Canada. These include:
Installing compliant wayfinding tiles per all relevant codes ensures accessibility obligations are legally met. Non-compliance can result in heavy penalties and lawsuits.
Proper installation is vital for wayfinding tiles to function effectively. Here are some best practices to follow:
Proper installation Alignment perpendicular to route direction, flushness with the floor, high color/brightness contrast, and ongoing maintenance are vital for optimizing wayfinding tile functionality.
Wayfinding tiles use various durable and slip-resistant materials like polymers, metals (stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum), rubber, and porcelain.
The principal regulations are the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), CSA B651, the National Building Code of Canada, provincial building codes like the Ontario Building Code, and relevant municipal bylaws.
Wayfinding tiles should be regularly inspected for damage or uplift, with prompt replacement of defective tiles. Daily sweeping and spot mopping keep tiles free of dust/debris accumulation.
Truncated domes provide warnings of upcoming hazards, while wayfinding tiles contain directional bars or cones to guide users along an intended pedestrian circulation path.
Wayfinding tiles provide a tactile navigation channel for the blind and visually impaired, enabling accessible mobility in complex environments. By consulting codes and standards, selecting appropriate products, and following best practices for installation, maintenance, and usability testing, facility owners and contractors can integrate wayfinding tiles to create inclusive public spaces that accommodate all users. This comprehensive guide covered the critical aspects of wayfinding tiles, from significance and design to installation and compliance. Leverage the insights provided to make wayfinding tiles a key component of accessibility and universal design in your next public space project.
17th Aug 2023
When it comes to installing tactile tiles as per Canadian accessibility legislation, contractors and building managers have two primary options - surface-applied tiles or cast-in-place tiles. But what is the difference between these two tactile tile installation methods?
This comprehensive guide will break down the critical distinctions between surface-applied and cast-in-place tiles. We will explore the applications, benefits, drawbacks, costs, and processes involved with each tactile tile system. Let's dive in!
First, let's briefly understand what tactile tiles are and why they are an indispensable accessibility feature.
Tactile tiles, also known as Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI), are textured ground surface indicators installed in walking areas. These tiles feature raised domes, bars, cones, or a combination of textures that can be detected through canes or underfoot.
As per accessibility regulations like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), tactile tiles are mandatory in public spaces. They serve two primary purposes:
Tactile tiles enhance accessibility and safety for those with visual impairments. They provide non-visual information through touch that enables independent navigation.
Now let's explore the two main installation methods for these indispensable tiles.
Cast-in-place tactile tiles are installed directly into freshly poured concrete. The tiles get embedded into the curing concrete, creating a permanent bond when the concrete solidifies.
Here are the key features of cast-in-place tactile tiles:
As the name suggests, surface-applied tactile tiles get affixed onto existing concrete or floor surfaces using adhesive and mechanical fasteners. Let's examine their defining features:
Now that we have explored both tactile tile systems let's compare them across some key parameters:
Cast-in-place tiles are firmly anchored in concrete, making them extremely durable against forces like heavy footfall and vehicular traffic. Surface-applied tiles adhere to the substrate, so heavy loads can cause the bond to fail over time.
Cast-in-place tiles require excavating concrete and pouring fresh concrete, adding labor and material costs. Surface-applied tiles only need adhesive, fasteners, and basic tools, making them a budget-friendly option.
Cast-in-place tiles need accurate installation into wet concrete and involve curing time. Surface-applied tiles can be fixed with basic DIY skills using adhesive and drills.
Cast-in-place tiles seamlessly integrate into the walking surface with no visible gap between the tile and concrete. Surface-applied tiles have slight edges between the tile and substrate.
Properly installed cast-in-place tiles can easily last 25+ years. Surface-applied tiles have a lifespan of around 5-8 years before replacement is needed.
Both tactile systems can comply with accessibility standards if engineered and installed according to specifications.
Replacing damaged cast-in-place tiles is tedious. Surface-applied tiles can be swapped out easily when required.
When selecting tactile tiles, consider the following factors:
Review your unique requirements against the benefits of each tactile system to make the ideal choice. Expert suppliers like Tactile Solutions Canada can also guide you in picking the right tactile tiles tailored to your project.
As Canada's leading tactile tile supplier, Tactile Solutions provides the most extensive selection of cast-in-place and surface-applied tactile systems to create accessible public spaces per regulations.
Our cast-in-place tile range includes:
The surface-applied tiles we offer consist of:
All our tiles are:
Get in touch with Tactile Solution Canada team today for expert guidance on selecting and installing the optimal tactile tiles for your next public space project.
17th Aug 2023
In public spaces across Canada, you may have noticed textured ground surfaces with small, raised bumps installed in areas like curb ramps, transit platforms, and building entrances. These indispensable installations are known as detectable warning surfaces or tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs).
But what exactly are detectable warning surfaces, and how do they enhance pedestrian safety? This comprehensive guide will explore these tactile tiles' critical role in creating accessible, hazard-free environments for all individuals.
Detectable warning surfaces, commonly called truncated dome tiles or tactile pavers, are textured ground indicators that provide a noticeable underfoot cue detectable by cane or foot. Installed at key locations in the pedestrian environment, they serve two main purposes:
These surfaces feature standardized textures and high color/brightness contrast with surroundings to be easily discernible. As per Canadian accessibility legislation like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), integrating detectable warning surfaces in certain public spaces is a legal obligation.
Now let's explore how thoughtfully installed detectable warning tiles can enhance pedestrian safety in impactful ways.
One of the most crucial applications of detectable warning surfaces is that it warns pedestrians about impending dangers or level changes along their path. Key locations where these cues offer vital hazard warnings include:
The distinctive bumpy texture and high visibility of detectable warning surfaces prompt pedestrians to stop, assess the upcoming hazard, and proceed with caution. This is especially helpful for individuals with visual disabilities in avoiding mishaps.
Detectable warning surfaces also integrate anti-slip properties into their design. The textured tile surface, with small raised domes/bars, creates friction that prevents slips and improves traction for pedestrians in all weather conditions.
This slip-resistant texture provides a safe walking surface, especially useful when transitioning between levels or walking on sloped areas like ramps. The wetness-resistant anti-slip surface gives all pedestrians, able and disabled, better footing to deal with Canada's varied climate.
Detectable warning surfaces are designed to be highly noticeable underfoot using color/brightness contrast and texture. This pronounced sensory difference from the surrounding ground captures pedestrians' attention and prompts them to mindfully assess their environment before proceeding.
The eye-catching surface causes even distracted walkers to look up from their phones and take in important cues like changes in elevation or vehicular traffic before moving forward. This heightened environmental awareness helps pedestrians avoid accidents.
Detectable warning surfaces don't just warn about hazards – they also actively guide pedestrians along safe walking routes when installed as wayfinding paths.
Detectable warning surfaces with parallel elongated bars help outline safe passageways through large open public spaces where navigation is challenging. The linear bars point the way forward, allowing pedestrians with vision disabilities to traverse unfamiliar environments confidently by following the tactile directional cues.
As per provincial laws like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Building Code (OBC), integrating detectable warning surfaces in public spaces is not just an ethical obligation - regulations mandate it.
Installing compliant detectable warning tiles protects business owners and contractors from lawsuits and fines for failing to provide accessible infrastructure as per codes. It also ensures that public spaces are designed inclusively to accommodate all users.
As Canada's premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solutions offers a wide selection of detectable warning tiles engineered to enhance pedestrian safety. Some of our top products include:
Common materials for detectable warning surfaces are concrete, durable polymers, porcelain, rubber, metals, stainless steel, and engineered composites. The material is chosen based on the location.
Key locations are transit platforms, curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, building entrances, stairs, escalators, information kiosks, service counters, and parking areas.
They warn about upcoming hazards, provide slip resistance, draw attention to surroundings, guide users along paths, and ensure code compliance.
High-quality detectable warning tiles can last 25+ years with minimal replacement needs beyond occasional damaged tile replacement.
By investing in compliant detectable warning surfaces from Tactile Solution Canada, builders, contractors, and property owners in Canada can make public environments seamlessly accessible to all while fulfilling safety obligations.
9th Aug 2023
In recent years, a growing focus has been on enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in public spaces. For people with disabilities, navigating buildings and unfamiliar environments can pose numerous challenges. This is especially true for individuals with vision impairments who rely heavily on non-visual cues to orient themselves and detect potential hazards.
Photoluminescent guidance systems offer an innovative solution to support wayfinding and safety for the visually impaired and other people with disabilities. In this blog, we'll explore what photoluminescent systems are, how they work, their key benefits, and how they can transform spaces to be more accessible and disability-friendly.
Photoluminescent guidance systems use photoluminescent markings, indicators, and signs to outline travel paths and highlight key features in a building or public space.
Photoluminescence is the phenomenon where certain materials absorb, store, and emit light. Photoluminescent signs and markers absorb ambient light when exposed, then glow in low-light conditions without needing electricity. This self-powered illumination lasts for hours after the lights go out.
Photoluminescent guidance systems strategically incorporate glow-in-the-dark signs, indicators, strips, and labels to achieve the following:
Photoluminescent guidance systems rely on patented photoluminescent coatings made of non-toxic materials such as strontium aluminate. These coatings fully charge when exposed to ambient light sources, be it natural light, overhead lighting, or emergency lighting.
Once charged, the photoluminescent signs, strips, and markers emit a bright green glow, even in complete darkness. The glow can last up to 70 hours on a single 1 hour of 54lux charging, providing extended guidance.
The photoluminescent indicators absorb and re-emit light, requiring no batteries or wiring. This makes them a reliable and cost-effective safety solution. They are also sustainable as they consume no energy for operation.
To implement an effective system, photoluminescent guidance indicators must be installed strategically along paths of travel per approved photoluminescent code compliance guides like UL 924 or NBC requirements. Proper placement is crucial for optimal visibility and usefulness.
Photoluminescent markings illuminate exit routes in emergencies, low-light conditions, and power failures. This aids in safe evacuation and prevents panic or accidents.
The bright visual cues and tactile components guide people with visual and cognitive disabilities to safely navigate spaces, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Photoluminescent signs work reliably in all conditions as they need no batteries or wiring. This makes them ideal for emergency preparedness.
Photoluminescent guidance systems comply with accessibility standards like the NBC, ADA, IBC, and relevant provincial codes when properly installed. This ensures legal conformity.
Photoluminescent markings consume no energy, reducing environmental impact and utility costs. They also have long lifespans of up to 25 years, decreasing replacement needs.
The visibility of photoluminescent guidance systems helps guide all users, regardless of abilities, in complex buildings and spaces, especially under stressful emergency conditions.
By incorporating standardized guidance indicators in environments, architects and contractors can transform them into accessible, disability-friendly spaces that support wayfinding, independent mobility, and safety for the visually impaired and people with other disabilities.
Let's look at some examples of how photoluminescent systems enhance accessibility:
The strategic use of photoluminescent visual and tactile elements per recognized standards ensures continuous access and safety for those who have vision disabilities. It enables them to move through environments seamlessly while remaining aware of potential hazards and navigation choices.
As Canada's leading supplier of photoluminescent guidance systems, Tactile Solution Canada offers UL-certified solutions from trusted brands like Ecoglo to enhance accessibility, safety, and emergency preparedness.
Our key products include:
By consulting the accessibility standards specific to each Canadian province and territory, architects and contractors can integrate photoluminescent guidance systems into designs to create inclusive, Code-compliant spaces that accommodate all users.
Some common examples are photoluminescent exit signs, stair nosings, handrail markers, hazard markings, and fire/emergency signage. These markings provide visual guidance and hazard warnings in low-light conditions.
Photoluminescent systems are required in public buildings and spaces as per accessibility regulations like the National Building Code of Canada and relevant provincial codes.
They help people who have vision, cognitive, or other disabilities to safely and independently navigate and evacuate buildings, especially in emergencies or low lighting.
Transit platforms, airports, office buildings, healthcare facilities, sports stadiums, multifamily housing, theatres, and other public spaces can be made accessible with the standardized installation of photoluminescent guidance indicators.
Quality photoluminescent coatings glow brightly for at least 70 hours after a 30-60-minute lux charge. This provides extended visibility in dark conditions.
Photoluminescent guidance systems enhance accessibility, emergency preparedness, and safety in buildings and public environments, especially for people with disabilities. Strategic use of standardized photoluminescent visual and tactile components per recognized codes ensures continuous wayfinding, hazard identification, and navigation aid for the visually impaired.
To learn more about creating accessible and inclusive spaces with photoluminescent guidance systems, contact the experts at Tactile Solution Canada today.
9th Aug 2023
In our fast-growing society, the need for accessible and safe public spaces has become more crucial than ever. With over 5.59 million Canadians living with vision impairment or partial sight loss, it's imperative that our built environments cater to people of all abilities. This is where tactile paving solutions come into the picture.
Tactile paving, also known as detectable warning surfaces, are textured ground surface indicators that provide essential cues to pedestrians with visual impairments. Installing these specialized paved surfaces enhances accessibility and safety in public spaces.
As per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), tactile paving is a mandatory accessibility solution in public spaces across Ontario. For contractors and building owners, integrating compliant tactile paving solutions demonstrates a commitment to constructing inclusive infrastructure.
This blog post will explore what tactile paving is, how it assists people with vision loss, its significance in urban planning, and how Tactile Solution’s range of code-compliant tactile products can enhance safety and accessibility.
Tactile paving uses standardized textures that pedestrians can detect through their feet or mobility canes. The raised bumps, bars, cones, or domes on tactile surfaces provide essential information to individuals with visual impairments.
Tactile paving is commonly constructed from durable materials like metal, ceramic, concrete, rubber, or composite polymers. The textures are installed on sidewalks, transit platforms, building entrances, and more. When appropriately implemented, tactile paving solutions make public realm navigation intuitive for citizens of all abilities.
For people with visual disabilities, tactile walking surface indicators transform environments by providing vital sensory information through touch. Here are some of the key benefits of tactile paving for enhanced accessibility:
In Canada, tactile paving installations must adhere to accessibility standards and building codes at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels. Key regulations include:
To ensure compliance, tactile paving solutions must fulfill dimensional, material, installation, contrast, and placement specifications per the abovementioned regulations. Failing to adhere can lead to safety risks and violation of provincial laws.
For urban planners and designers, tactile paving is indispensable for crafting inclusive public realm landscapes. Thoughtfully integrating compliant tactile walking surface indicators enhances accessibility and safety across our built environment.
Some key applications of tactile paving in urban planning include:
With proper urban integration, tactile paving provides well-connected, intuitive accessibility networks that span our public landscapes - making cities welcoming for all.
As Canada's premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solution partners with urban planners, architects and contractors nationwide to integrate compliant tactile systems that transform public spaces. Our extensive range of industry-leading tactile products empowers you to enhance accessibility and safety seamlessly.
Made from durable engineered composite polymers, metals and porcelain, our tactile paving solutions are designed to deliver long-lasting performance and resist heavy foot traffic. With options for surface-mounting onto existing sidewalks or embedding directly into new concrete pours, our paving facilitates both new and legacy infrastructure conversions.
Designed for seamless integration and simple installation, our paving products help achieve both accessibility compliance and aesthetic appeal. With the choice of sizes, shapes, materials, and colors, find the ideal tactile solution to enhance any public space context.
Partner with us to make infrastructure accessible and communities inclusive for all. Discover our versatile range of compliant tactile paving products today at Tactile Solution Canada. Let's pave the path to universal access - one textured tile at a time!
A: Accessibility standards like the AODA and CSA B651 provide specific technical guidelines on tactile paving installation to ensure safety and compliance.
A: Key locations are sidewalks, building entrances, transit platforms, parks, information kiosks, road crossings, and parking lots. Tactile paving is required at grade changes, stairs, and potential hazards.
A: It warns users about hazards, guides appropriate pathfinding, provides orientation cues, and promotes safe, independent navigation for people with vision loss.
A: While especially useful for people with vision impairments, tactile paving provides helpful navigation and hazard cues to all pedestrians in public spaces.
9th Aug 2023
Installing tactile tiles is an important accessibility requirement in public spaces and buildings across Canada. It is an effective solution designed to help pedestrians navigate their surrounding safely & confidently.
However, with the various options available, selecting the right tactile tile for your specific project can get confusing. This blog provides a comprehensive guide that will help you in making the right decision by choosing compliant and long-lasting tactile tiles that perfectly match your unique requirements.
Tactile tiles, also known as Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs), are textured ground surfaces that provide critical cues for navigation and hazard detection to pedestrians with visual impairments. Installing these tiles is mandated under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and various provincial building codes in Canada.
Tactile tiles contain either raised domes or elongated bars installed on walking surfaces. The different textures serve specific purposes:
Truncated Domes: Truncated domes, also called as detectable warning tiles, have raised domes in a distinct pattern that alerts pedestrians to upcoming hazards like intersections or platform edges.
Wayfinding Bars: Wayfinding bars contain raised bars that guide pedestrians along designated pathways toward amenities or transit access points.
Tactile tiles can be installed by embedding into concrete or applying onto existing surfaces. They are commonly made from durable, weather-resistant materials like metal, stone, cast iron, rubber, porcelain, and polymers.
Here are the key aspects to evaluate when selecting tactile tiles for your project:
Truncated Domes or Wayfinding Bars - Select tiles with appropriate texture for hazard warnings or path demarcations.
Choose colors that sufficiently contrast with the surrounding surface for high visibility. Safety yellow offers optimal contrast.
Ensure the tiles adhere to all relevant Canadian accessibility codes and standards like AODA and CSA B651.
Tiles must have a slip-resistant texture and slightly beveled edges for safety and to prevent tripping hazards.
When choosing tactile tiles, consider your unique project requirements - whether it's a new construction or renovation, indoor or outdoor setting, high or low foot traffic, slip resistance needed, and accessibility compliance.
Connect with tactile tile manufacturers like Tactile Solution Canada to get product recommendations based on your specifications. Our team can suggest the right tiles tailored to your needs from their wide selection of brands like AccessTile, Armor Tile, Advantage Tile, and more.
Investing in compliant and durable tactile tiles specifically suited for your project ensures safety, accessibility, and long-term value. You can pick tiles that serve both form and function with the right guidance. Reach out to us today for any queries on finding the ideal tactile tiles for your next project.
Tactile tiles contain standardized raised textures and patterns to provide navigation cues for the visually impaired. Regular floor tiles lack such accessible textures.
Quality tactile tiles can last 10-15 years with proper installation and durable material selection. Tiles made of weaker materials may need replacement every 5-8 years.
Quality tactile tiles are designed with an integral slip-resistant texture to maintain traction even when wet. Some materials like porcelain may get more slippery.
Tactile tiles typically just need routine cleaning. Some types, like replaceable polymer tiles, allow easy replacement of damaged sections as needed.
For existing surfaces, tactile tiles come with adhesive backing or are installed using construction adhesives and mechanical fasteners if needed. Edges are often grouted.
28th Jul 2023
In Canada, fostering inclusivity and accessibility is not just important - it's the law. With approximately 6.2 million Canadians living with some form of disability, the need for accessible infrastructure and environments has never been greater. Tactile warning systems are pivotal in enhancing accessibility and independence for Canadians with visual impairments.
As a contractor or building owner, understanding the various accessibility codes and standards is critical to ensuring your projects are compliant and accommodate all users. This blog post explores the critical accessibility codes in Canada, why tactile warning systems are vital, and how products from Tactile Solutions Canada can equip you for success.
The AODA is provincial legislation passed in 2005 to improve accessibility across Ontario for persons with disabilities. This act serves as the foundation and framework for developing accessibility standards that address barriers faced by Ontarians in key areas of daily living.
AODA's Design of Public Spaces standard directly pertains to tactile warning systems. It mandates that all newly constructed or redeveloped public spaces must be made accessible for persons with disabilities.
The standard applies to all newly constructed public spaces and existing spaces undergoing major renovations. It also applies to both public and private sector organizations above a certain size.
This far-reaching standard underscore why installing compliant tactile warning systems is not just good practice, but the law.
The CSA B651 is a nationally recognized standard developed by the CSA Group that provides technical requirements for creating accessible built environments. Tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) comprise a crucial element addressed within this standard.
CSA B651 outlines the correct specifications and placement guidelines for TWSIs to accommodate persons with visual disabilities. It covers warning/attention TWSIs that indicate hazards and directional/guidance TWSIs that guide users along a path.
Adhering to CSA B651 ensures the proper application of tactile systems to create consistently accessible and navigable spaces.
The National Building Code of Canada prescribes technical provisions for designing and constructing new buildings, including various accessibility requirements. It references both AODA regulations and CSA standards, including CSA B651.
Tactile warning surfaces facilitate compliance in critical areas like washrooms, paths of travel, parking areas, and emergency egress routes. Installing code-compliant tactile systems is necessary to satisfy National Building Code requirements.
Tactile warning systems provide standardized walking surfaces with a detectable texture and cues that alert pedestrians to potential hazards or guide them along an intended route. For individuals with visual disabilities, these vital systems foster improved mobility and independence.
The key benefits of compliant tactile warning systems include the following:
Tactile indicators like truncated domes provide critical underfoot warnings about potential dangers such as platform edges, street crossings, transit boarding zones, or staircases. This allows improved navigation and hazard avoidance for persons with vision loss.
Properly installed tactile warning systems satisfy the accessibility requirements mandated under Canadian codes and regulations like the AODA, NBC, CSA B651, and various provincial codes. This ensures that projects adhere to the law and promote inclusion.
The unique textures and patterns of tactile walking surface indicators enable persons with visual disabilities to gather vital spatial information about their surroundings using touch and other senses. This allows for confident wayfinding and exploration without reliance on aids like canes.
Standardized tactile warning guidelines help maintain consistency in how warnings and directional cues are conveyed. This consistency enables quicker interpretation and leaves less room for error in navigating spaces.
Tactile warning products are available in a range of materials, sizes, colors, and patterns to accommodate diverse projects and design aesthetics both indoors and outdoors. Easy installation and low maintenance also make them a versatile accessibility solution.
As Canada's leading supplier of code-compliant tactile warning systems, Tactile Solution Canada aims to empower contractors, building owners, architects, and public authorities to create accessible environments that accommodate all Canadians.
Our extensive product portfolio includes trusted solutions like:
These industry-leading solutions are:
With the guidance of our accessibility specialists, you can select optimal tactile warning systems for all your projects and applications with full confidence in meeting Canadian codes. Contact our team today to learn how Tactile Solution Canada can become your trusted partner in accessibility.
A: The major codes are the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the National Building Code of Canada, CSA B651, and various provincial regulations like the Ontario Building Code.
A: Key locations include transit platforms, pedestrian crossings, building entrances, stairs, ramps, escalators, parking areas, passenger loading zones, and restrooms.
A: Properly installed systems require very minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. High-quality tiles have long lifespans of 25+ years.
A: Surface-applied tiles are designed specifically for easy application onto existing flooring. These provide a cost-effective retrofitting solution.
28th Jul 2023
In today's world, accessibility and inclusivity are paramount when designing public spaces. Tactile solution play a crucial role in creating accessible environments, especially for individuals with visual impairments. However, with various options available, choosing the right tactile solutions that are code compliant can be confusing.
This blog provides a comprehensive guide on selecting ideal tactile solution for indoor and outdoor public spaces that meet Canadian accessibility codes and regulations.
Code-compliant tactile solutions refer to textured ground surface indicators that adhere to accessibility legislation and building codes. In Canada, the relevant regulations include the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Ontario Building Code (OBC), CSA Standards, and various municipal bylaws.
These solutions, comprising tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) like truncated domes and wayfinding bars, provide critical sensory information to pedestrians with visual impairments. The tactile cues offer warnings about potential hazards and guide users along appropriate paths of travel.
For contractors and property owners, installing code-compliant tactile solutions is not just about aligning with the moral values of inclusion. It is a legal obligation with severe ramifications for non-compliance. Failing to provide accessible public spaces as per regulations could lead to lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage.
While tactile solutions promote accessibility in all public spaces, the specific products and installation methods vary for indoor and outdoor settings.
Outdoor tactile solutions must withstand weather elements and heavy foot traffic. The tiles are thicker and made of durable materials like vitrified polymers, metals, and concrete. Products include cast-in-place concrete tiles, replaceable metal tiles, and surface-applied polymer or rubber tiles.
Indoor tactile solutions focus more on aesthetics, acoustics, and fire safety. The tiles are smoother and made of materials like porcelain, stainless steel, rubber, and polymers. Products include surface-applied tiles, single-embedded domes or bars, and fire-rated tactile.
Getting the suitable tiles specific to each application is key for optimal performance.
Here are some top compliant tactile systems available in Canada for outdoor settings:
Armor Tile offers durable ADA, CSA, ISO, and OBC-compliant tactile solutions for outdoor spaces. Key products include:
This robust tactile system suits high-traffic outdoor applications. Products include:
Access Tile offers lightweight polymer-based systems. Products suitable for outdoors:
For indoor spaces, these are some ideal code-compliant tactile systems:
Elan Tile porcelain tactile suits indoor applications with aesthetic needs. Products include:
Access Tile offers indoor solutions like:
Eon Tile flexible rubber tactile suits a variety of indoor applications:
Tactile solutions are available in a range of materials:
Choosing the right material ensures optimal performance and longevity in the intended application.
While accessibility is a moral obligation, legal consequences also necessitate compliance with tactile solution. As per Canadian laws like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Ontario Building Code, and CSA Standards, public spaces must provide accessible routes and warnings for visually impaired individuals.
Tactile solutions that fail to adhere to codes and standards can lead to:
Instead, getting it right the first time with compliant tactile solutions saves time, money, and legal troubles down the road.
Some outdoor spaces that require compliant tactile include sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, parks, public transit platforms, parking areas, recreational trails, and curb ramps.
The key regulations are the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Ontario Building Code (OBC), CSA Standards on Barrier-Free Design, and various municipal bylaws.
Indoor settings that need compliant tactile include entrances, lobbies, stairs, corridors, shopping malls, information desks, transit stations, arenas, auditoriums, and apartment buildings.
Yes, outdoor tactile solutions are built more ruggedly from materials like concrete, metal, and heavy-duty polymers to withstand weather and high foot traffic. Indoor solutions focus more on fire safety, acoustics, and aesthetics.
Proper installation involves following manufacturer instructions, using trained installers for specialty products, ensuring flush fit between tiles and surrounding surfaces, and post-install maintenance.
Specifying code-compliant tactile solutions requires understanding regulations, product options, and correct installation methods to achieve accessibility. With the right tactile systems design, public spaces can provide safe, seamless navigation for all users, significantly the visually impaired. Partners like Tactile Solution Canada make the process smooth by guiding you to compliant products tailored to each application.
28th Jul 2023
Ensuring accessibility for all individuals, regardless of physical ability, is a crucial moral and legal responsibility. For visually impaired persons, in particular, navigating the built environment poses daily challenges that most sighted individuals take for granted.
Tactile warning surface indicators (TWSIs), also known as detectable warning surfaces, provide a vital communication channel between public infrastructure and individuals with visual disabilities. Composed of standardized textured ground surfaces, TWSIs convey essential information non-visually through the sense of touch.
As per Canadian accessibility legislation like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), integrating TWSIs in various indoor and outdoor public spaces is mandatory. When thoughtfully implemented, these ingenious surfaces enhance accessibility and quality of life for millions of Canadians.
TWSIs feature distinctive surface patterns that are easily detectable underfoot or by a cane. Two main types exist:
These indicate potential hazards like the edge of a platform or oncoming vehicular traffic. The typical configuration is truncated domes organized in a square or radial pattern.
These provide directional cues to guide pedestrians along designated walking paths. Common configurations are raised bars, cones, or grooves running parallel to the direction of travel.
The thoughtful integration of TWSIs enhances indoor accessibility and safety for the visually impaired. Key applications include:
Proper interior placement is crucial - too few can leave dangerous gaps in information, while overuse can cause clutter and confusion. When thoughtfully distributed, indoor TWSIs foster confidence, independence, and security.
Outdoor public realms present even greater navigational challenges. Proper TWSI integration enhances outdoor accessibility by:
With outdoor TWSIs, regular maintenance is key, as exposure can degrade materials over time. Fortunately, their durable materials offer excellent longevity even in harsh conditions.
The benefits of thoughtfully installed TWSIs for visually impaired Canadians are immense, including:
Ultimately, TWSIs allow full participation in society and provide a lifeline to accessibility.
Beyond the user perspective, TWSIs also benefit the owners and operators of public and private spaces in key ways:
By investing in proper TWSI integration, organizations show they genuinely care about inclusivity - an ethos that appeals to conscientious consumers.
To maximize the benefits of TWSIs for all, consider the best practices:
With thoughtful design, diligent installation, and proper maintenance, the impacts of TWSIs on accessibility and inclusivity will continue growing for decades to come.
Tactile ground surface indicators provide detectable tactile cues to assist visually impaired pedestrians in navigating public spaces safely and independently. Key purposes include signaling hazards and providing directional guidance.
These textured ground surface indicators serve two main functions - warning pedestrians about upcoming hazards like curbs or stairs and guiding pedestrians along designated walking paths in large open spaces.
Warning tactile ground surface indicators use distinctive surface patterns like truncated domes to signal upcoming hazards to pedestrians with visual disabilities. This alerts them to dangers like curbs, platform edges, vehicle areas, or stairs.
In our complex urban landscapes, seamless public accessibility requires careful infrastructural planning. For pedestrians with visual impairments, the integration of Tactile Warning Surface Indicators (TWSIssss) provides an indispensable communication channel to the built environment. Indoors and out, proper TWSIs placement promotes confidence, independence, and security during daily life.
By investing in compliant, durable, thoughtfully distributed TWSIs, businesses and urban planners take an essential step towards a Canada without barriers. At Tactile Solution, we provide reliable, superior-quality TWSIs not only meet but surpass all pertinent regulations and specifications. We offer a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes to meet the specific needs of each project.
27th Jul 2023
Access to indoor and outdoor spaces like corridors, lobbies, staircases, sidewalks, and pedestrian crossings is a fundamental right for all individuals-regardless of their physical abilities. Access® Tile is an innovative Detectable Warning systems provider set to transform how we approach accessibility! Access to public spaces, buildings, and transportation systems is a fundamental right for all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities. Introducing Access® Tile, an innovative Detectable Warning systems provider that is set to transform how we approach accessibility!
Delivering the best walking and accessibility systems to accessibility professionals, specifiers, installers, and contractors, Access® Tile strives to enhance public places with the utmost safety and accessibility. This write-up explores the comprehensive details of Access® Tile systems and their types in detail. Let's get started -
Access® Tile is a leading code-compliant detectable warning and guidance system provider to help visually impaired individuals navigate their surroundings safely & confidently. These warning and guidance systems are not only a way to comply with accessibility guidelines but also a legal requirement under the CSA Canadian Standards Association) Act and other international standards.
Access® Tile detectable warning systems are exclusively made to be installed in public spaces to alert visually impaired pedestrians of potential hazards or safe directions. These flooring systems are strategically placed in curb ramps, information kiosks, registration desks, stairways, elevators, escalators, store or service doors, transit platforms, stairwells, and marinas to help visually impaired individuals navigate while walking.
Attention and wayfinding systems include tactile paving or tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs). These indicators can be detected by a cane or foot, providing important information about environmental changes.
Access® Tile has designed a highly advanced, durable, tactile walking surface indicator system. Their Cast-in-Place tiles are made with top-notch processing, material technologies, and engineered polymers, resulting in a durable and intelligent design. These tiles can be installed into wet concrete, offering the industry-leading replaceability feature.
Access® Tile cast-in-place tiles with attention domes are necessary for all environments to meet Canadian accessibility code standards. Providing a detectable warning surface that contrasts with the ground alerts pedestrians to potential hazards. Put simply, attention domes convey the walkers about the hazardous path they are approaching, so they can walk on the safer side! These attention domes are durable, weather-resistant tiles available in various sizes and colors.
Access® Tile has crafted durable and lightweight cast-in-place tiles with wayfinding bars—for accessible pedestrian navigation. The tiles are designed to comply with Canadian accessibility codes that can be installed only on wet concrete surfaces. These tiles provide visually impaired and blind travelers with a safe tactile indication about the safe path!
The installation of wayfinding warning and guidance surfaces indicates the direct routes of travel within a public space in a non-visual way. Their non-slip surface and wayfinding bars ensure safe passage for all pedestrians.
Access® Tile surface applied tiles are the ultimate Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI) solution-perfect for unpredictable site conditions with easy handling and cutting. These tiles significantly benefit individuals with visual impairments, alerting pedestrians to hazardous edges and safe walking paths.
The word attention says it all! Access® Tile surface-applied tiles with attention domes are affordable, slip-resistant warning tiles that can be used in various settings to alert people of hazardous edges. Providing tactile warnings for walkers, surface-applied tiles with attention dome are durable, corrosion-resistant, and available in 8 colors for visual contrast—benefiting those with visual impairments through tactile cues about the upcoming unsafe surface.
Access® Tile surface, applied tiles with wayfinding bars, is a cost-effective solution for Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI). They can be easily installed on existing surfaces, providing safe navigation for walkers, especially people with visual impairments. Access® Tile offers these wayfinding bars for creating accessible pathways and assures people that the way they walk is a safe path. These are specially designed for barrier-free navigation in public spaces.
Beyond enhancing accessibility, solutions by Access® Tile also offer remarkable efficiency benefits for everyone. If you are a contractor, builder, building manager, landscaper or architect, contractor or builder, you must consider Access® Tile for the best Detectable Warning systems! Tactile Solution takes pride in being one of Canada's leading suppliers of Access® Tile! Since we have the most extensive sales and distribution network of Access® Tile systems, you can always reach us to get Access® Tile systems for your projects.
27th Jul 2023
In Canada, where accessibility and safety regulations are strictly enforced, finding innovative solutions that prioritize both accessibility and protection is crucial. This is where Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire-Resistant Tile comes in. It's specially designed to meet all the requirements of the Ontario Building Code and other Canadian codes
At Tactile Solution, we understand the importance of creating safe environments that cater to everyone's needs. Our Access-tile surface-applied tiles offer an unparalleled level of safety while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. To learn more about Acess tiles, read the below blog post:
The Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile is a necessary product for buildings that are higher than 7 floors. It provides tactile walking surface indicators (TWSI) with truncated domes for indoor use, particularly in high-rise buildings. This product is designed to warn individuals with visual impairments of any potential hazards or changes in direction on the floor surface.
The Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile not only is compliant with building code but also with Fire Code - that makes it unique.The FIRESENTRY-X Composite Technology used in Access Tile Surface Applied Fire Retardant ensures maximum resistance against fire. Access Tile FR is an affordable option for adding tactile warning surface indicators (TWSI) to interior floors, such as exit stairwells, vestibules, lobbies, and corridors. This product is highly slip-resistant, durable, and strong, which means it can be used in a variety of environments and traffic conditions.
At Tactile Solution, we believe that safety should never be compromised when it comes to creating accessible environments. Our Access-tile fire-resistant surface applied tiles provide an innovative solution that combines functionality and aesthetics without compromising on quality or compliance. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how they can revolutionize safety in your space.
27th Jul 2023
Have you ever found yourself feeling lost or disoriented in a public space? This is a common experience for many individuals, especially those with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. According to Rick Hansen Foundation, 1 in 5 Canadians have a disability, and nearly 50% of Canadian adults experience physical disabilities, either permanent or temporary, or live with someone who does.
Based on research conducted by the Angus Reid Institute in collaboration with RHF, it was found that approximately two-thirds of Canadians express worry about individuals in their lives encountering similar difficulties within the next decade or so. Fortunately, tactile solutions for wayfinding have emerged as invaluable aids in such situations.
Tactile wayfinding solutions are specifically designed to facilitate navigation and empower individuals to move independently within public spaces. By incorporating these solutions, organizations can not only enhance accessibility but also distinguish themselves from competitors by offering inclusive experiences for all visitors.
In this blog post, we will delve into the Access Tile wayfinding tactile solutions available for wayfinding purposes:
Wayfinding tactile solutions encompass the use of physical pathways, commonly known as wayfinding bars, that guide individuals through public spaces. These bars serve as navigational aids and greatly assist visually impaired individuals in confidently navigating their surroundings.
By employing code-compliant wayfinding bars in areas where there may be no inherent risk but still a need to provide a safe path for the visually impaired, organizations demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity. Investing in Access Tile wayfinding solutions means prioritizing accessibility while enhancing the overall user experience within your premises.
Access Tile's cutting-edge Directional Wayfinding tiles are designed to guide the public between spaces safely. These tactile pavings combine state-of-the-art processing and material technologies with innovative, intelligent design, resulting in a detectable warning pad that is not only cost-effective but also lightweight and incredibly durable.
Access Tile offers two variations of their Directional Wayfinding tiles: Replaceable Cast in Place tiles and Surface Applied tiles. Both options boast industry-leading efficiency when it comes to installation or replacement processes. Additionally, the Replaceable Cast in Place tiles stands out as the greenest choice available on the market today.
Both products are available in six standard colors with Federal color identification numbers and come with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
To ensure a visually cohesive look, Access Tile takes pride in color-matching tile fasteners to your specific code-compliant tile selection - achieving an aesthetically pleasing appearance while maintaining compliance.
For Canadian projects seeking these top-notch Directional Wayfinding tiles, Tactile Solution Canada stands tall as the leading distributor across the country – offering easy access to this exceptional solution for enhanced accessibility within public spaces.
Specifically designed to enhance further the safety of public spaces for individuals with visual impairments, Access Tile wayfinding tactile paving proves to be a game-changer. These detectable warning tiles create tactile pathways that guide people safely throughout your area, providing invaluable guidance. The elevated directional bars have been meticulously crafted to ensure they can be comfortably felt through any type of footwear.
Access Tile has carefully engineered these detectable warning surfaces to seamlessly complement its truncated dome tiles. While the truncated dome tile marks both the beginning and end points of the pathway, Wayfinding Tiles with TWSI (Tactile Walking Surface Indicators) expertly direct individuals through the space—creating a cohesive system that maximizes accessibility.
To suit diverse aesthetic preferences while ensuring optimal visibility, all Access Tile code-compliant tiles are available in bright UV stable colors such as Federal Yellow (33538), Brick Red (22144), Colonial Red (20109), Safety Red (31350), Dark Grey (36118), and Onyx Black (17038). These vibrant hues provide striking contrasts against most concrete surfaces—further facilitating easy navigation for all users.
When it comes to installing Access Tile's top-notch detectable warning tiles, you can expect a seamless process that maximizes efficiency and convenience. These tiles are crafted using a UV-stabilized fiberglass reinforced polymer composite - lightweight, non-porous, and incredibly easy to handle.
Rest assured that installing or replacing the Access Tile wayfinding tactile is a breeze without any risk of voiding the warranty.
While the installation process may vary slightly between these Replaceable Cast in Place tile and Surface Applied tile options, both offer straightforward procedures. If you need a detailed installation guide for installation, you can visit Tactile Solution Canada’s website reference section.
Visit our solutions section today to choose the best tactile for your facility needs or get a free quote by contacting us. Let’s make our world accessible and safe for all together!
26th Jul 2023
In today's society, accessibility is a key consideration in the design and construction of public spaces. Ensuring that everyone, including those with visual impairments, can navigate these environments safely and independently is not only a legal requirement but also an ethical responsibility. This is where Advantage Tactile Systems comes into play.
Advantage Tactile Systems stands at the forefront of revolutionizing tactile systems in Canada, offering innovative solutions that not only meet but exceed Canadian code requirements. With its cutting-edge technology and unwavering commitment to excellence, Advantage Tactile paves the way towards creating truly inclusive spaces. To learn more about Advantage Tactile Systems, read out the blog post:
Advantage Tactile Systems is the industry leader in detectable warning and directional tile surface systems. Our cutting-edge TWSIs are designed to ensure the safety of visually impaired individuals, whether it be on curb ramps, shopping malls, transit platforms, parking areas, stairwells, or escalator approaches.
With a range of metal materials available, our products not only meet stringent code requirements but also enhance the aesthetics of your projects.
Understanding Canadian Accessibility Codes and Standards
Several crucial regulations in Canada require tactile installations in public spaces. These ensure visually impaired individuals can safely navigate surroundings independently.
Key regulations include:
The AODA sets accessibility standards for Ontario across various sectors. It mandates tactile installation in all newly constructed or renovated public spaces.
The CSA Group develops standards for accessibility in the built environment across Canada. CSA B651 is the key standard for tactile walking surface indicators.
The National Building Code of Canada includes accessibility requirements for new construction and renovations. It adopts tactile requirements from CSA standards.
Provincial building codes like Ontario's contain additional accessibility rules for construction. These also reference CSA tactile installation standards.
By selecting Advantage Tactile Systems for your projects, you can seamlessly comply with all provincial and national regulations.
Advantage Tactile Systems offers the ultimate tactile solutions to meet Canadian accessibility standards. Let's explore the key benefits:
Tactile Solutions Canada provides the widest selection of Advantage tactile products in durable materials like stainless steel and cast iron.
This extensive product range allows you to find the ideal tactile solution for any public space.
All Advantage Tactile Systems are engineered to comply with the latest CSA, AODA, ISO, and building code tactile specifications. This guarantees that your installations will fully adhere to Canadian accessibility regulations.
The heavy-duty metals used in Advantage products are designed for long-term durability and resistance to heavy foot traffic. You can expect a long lifecycle with minimal maintenance requirements.
Many Advantage tiles feature replaceable designs. This simplifies maintenance since individual damaged tiles can be easily swapped out without replacing entire installations.
Advantage Tactile Systems are available in multiple sizes, shapes, and colors. This allows for optimal customization to fit the unique needs of any public space.
By harnessing the advantages above, Advantage Tactile Systems enable hassle-free compliance with Canadian regulations.
Creating barrier-free environments should be at the forefront of any construction or renovation project's priorities. By choosing Advantage Tactile Systems as your partner in compliance with Canadian code requirements, you gain access to premium materials, high-quality finishes, easy installation processes, and customization options in color and shape selection - all while maintaining strict adherence to accessibility standards.
Don't compromise on safety or aesthetics; contact Tactile Solution today for more information about Advantage Tactile Systems. Together we can create spaces that are truly inclusive and accessible for all individuals.
26th Jul 2023
Ascending and descending stairways are an integral part of our daily lives. Yet this routine activity poses potential risks, especially in emergency situations or low-lighting conditions. Fortunately, there are solutions available to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of all occupants. One such solution is the installation of Ecoglo Stair Nosing on the leading edge of stairs.
As a premier Canadian supplier of Ecoglo products, we aim to elucidate the magnificence of these stair nosings and how they augment the pulchritude and security of any edifice. Peruse on to garner comprehensive discernments on Ecoglo Stair Nosing and why it is an indispensable addition to any infrastructure.
Understanding the Epitome of Stair Safety
The stairways within an edifice perform a pivotal function - providing occupants with an expeditious avenue of egress in contingencies. Thus, augmenting stairway security is paramount, and anti-slip stair nosings contribute immensely to optimizing the safety of all stairwells in myriad ways.
The venerable International Building Code encompasses the means of egress within any building and dedicates a distinct segment to stair nosings. Section 1011 explicitly edifies the stair nosings regulations that building owners must abide by. These prerequisites outlined in the IBC ascertain that the stair nosings in a facility are uniform and installed securely. To mitigate any tripping hazards, the stair nosings must not project more than 1 1⁄4 inches beyond the nosing of the lower tread. Additionally, all the stair nosings within a stairwell need to be of uniform size and shape.
Elevating Safety | Ecoglo Anti-slip Stair Nosing
Anti-slip stair nosings augment the safety within an edifice in manifold ways:
Considering the Stair-Nosing Options
Ecoglo manufactures stair nosings with myriad installation methods and options to select from:
Installing Ecoglo Stair Nosing affords multifarious benefits that enhance stairway safety:
Ecoglo’s industry-leading stair nosings offer comprehensive step-edge safety and unparalleled luminous visual demarcation. These time-tested photoluminescent and non-slip stair nosings are impervious to heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions. Manufactured utilizing our patented process, the nosings deliver durable egress guidance that augments the safety of any stairwell.
Contact Tactile Solution Canada today to illuminate your stairs with Ecoglo’s photoluminescent and non-slip stair nosings. Our team possesses extensive expertise in recommending stair nosings that align impeccably with your facility’s unique specifications, traffic patterns, and aesthetics.
26th Jul 2023
As a business owner or facilities manager, ensuring the safety of occupants during emergency evacuations is a top priority. Proper exit path marking plays a crucial role in safely directing people towards exits in chaotic low visibility conditions.
Traditionally, exit path marking relied solely on electrical lighting. However, power failures during emergencies can render such electrical systems ineffective. This is where Ecoglo's innovative photoluminescent directional signage offers a sustainable and reliable solution for exit path marking.
This blog will explore how Ecoglo's photoluminescent directional signs can help save energy and ensure optimal exit path visibility.
Ecoglo's photoluminescent directional signs utilize proprietary photoluminescent pigments that absorb and store ambient light. These pigments emit the stored light when the lights go out, creating a bright glow that illuminates exit pathways.
The photoluminescent materials obtain their charge from available ambient light sources, whether natural daylight or indoor lighting fixtures. Once fully charged, they can emit light for several hours in dark conditions. This makes them completely self-sufficient and 100% reliable even during power failures.
Ecoglo's photoluminescent directional signs offer the following advantages:
Unlike electrically powered exit signs, Ecoglo directional signs require no hardwiring, batteries, or electricity to operate. They fully rely on natural or ambient light sources for their photoluminescent charge. This makes them absolutely energy-efficient.
Facilities can save on energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint by using these signs for exit path marking.
Since they need no electrical supply, Ecoglo signs provide continuous illumination even in blackouts or power failures during emergencies. Their glow can last for 70 hours on just 1 hour of charge.
This ensures uninterrupted visibility of exit routes when it matters the most.
With no wiring, batteries, or electrical components, Ecoglo signs have minimal maintenance needs. There are no bulbs to replace or battery checks required. The occasional wipe-down is all they need.
This further reduces long-term overhead costs.
Ecoglo signs are extremely durable and built to last for decades. The photoluminescent material does not degrade or lose its luminosity like tritium gas. Ecoglo signs come with a 25-year warranty, underlining their longevity.
Ecoglo directional signs meet the latest IBC, IFC, and NFPA 101 codes for exit path marking. Using them ensures compliance with safety regulations.
Tactile Solution Canada offers Ecoglo photoluminescent directional signs in the following configuration:
These signs feature a running man pictogram with an arrow indicating the direction of the exit discharge. The arrow enhances wayfinding by clearly pointing toward the exit path.
Product Features
Exit path marking codes for Canadians Buildings
Various Canadian regulations mandate proper exit path marking to facilitate emergency egress:
These codes require exit pathways to be clearly identified and marked to enable efficient evacuation during emergencies in buildings:
Ecoglo signs help meet these legal requirements for exit path marking. Their bright green glow and directional arrows fulfil code mandates on exit sign visibility and wayfinding.
During emergencies, panic and chaos can lead to poor visibility due to smoke or power failure. People often become disoriented regarding the location of exits.
Ecoglo's photoluminescent directional signs illuminate exit pathways for hours on end after the lights go out. Their continuous glow provides a clear visible path to safety even in darkness, preventing confusion and speeding up evacuation.
By harnessing sustainable photoluminescent technology, Ecoglo signs enhance exit path visibility around-the-clock while using zero energy. They are a smart investment for sustainable and energy-efficient facilities.
As Canada's premier accessibility solutions provider, Tactile Solutions offers a wide range of Ecoglo's photoluminescent running man exit path marking products to meet code compliance and energy-efficiency needs.
With over a decade of experience supplying egress solutions in Canada, we are your trusted partner for Ecoglo products. Contact our experts today for clear, visible exit path marking using Ecoglo's photoluminescent directional signage. Let us illuminate your path to safety.
14th Jul 2023
In today's fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, seamless navigation and flow of people in commercial and public spaces is paramount. Directional signage inside buildings plays a pivotal role in facilitating an unhindered journey through a venue by providing visual cues and prompts to direct visitors to key locations and points of interest.
Code compliance and workplace safety are two of the most crucial aspects of any facility. In Canada, directional signage is an indispensable tool that aids in safeguarding visitors in hazardous environments or emergency situations inside facilities. However, traditional directional signage solutions are ill-equipped to optimally facilitate egress during power outages or in low-lighting conditions inside the buildings. This is where innovative photoluminescent directional signage products from Ecoglo come to the fore.
Ecoglo is a pioneering manufacturing company that specializes in fashioning intelligent safety solutions for commercial and other facilities. Their Ecoglo Directional Signs are manufactured using a proprietary photoluminescent compound that absorbs and stores ambient light to emit a glow in low or dark conditions. This unique quality renders Ecoglo Directional Signage ideal for installation in environments where traditional electrically-powered signs would be ineffective or in case of power failures. They are eco-friendly, cost-efficient, and compliant with the latest National Building Code of Canada’s requirements for photoluminescent exit signs and directional indicators.
For general contractors and builders working on commercial construction projects across Canada, Ecoglo Directional Signage offers significant benefits for workplace safety as well as code compliance:
The photoluminescent nature of Ecoglo Directional Signs allows for improved emergency wayfinding and evacuation during power outages, low light, or zero visibility conditions. The signs absorb and store ambient light and re-emit it in the form of a bright glow for up to 70 hours in complete darkness. This failsafe visibility aids occupants in seamlessly navigating toward emergency exits, fire escapes, or muster points.
Ecoglo Directional Signage meets or exceeds CSA and ULC standards for photoluminescent exit signs in Canada. They are fully compliant with the NBC, OBC, and other provincial building codes for photoluminescent exit signage and directional indicators. Using these signs allows contractors to achieve certification and pass inspections with flying colors.
Unlike electrical signs that require wiring, charging, and bulb replacements, Ecoglo Directional Signs are completely self-powered and maintenance-free. They operate independently even during power outages and only need exposure to light for recharging. The photoluminescent compound in this signage is highly durable and very long-lasting, allowing for longer usage.
Ecoglo Directional Signs eliminate the need for any electrical wiring, charging, or illumination to function. This makes them significantly more cost-effective in the long run compared to powered exit signs that entail high installation and ongoing maintenance expenses. The signs have an operational lifespan of over 25 years, so they do not require frequent replacement either.
Ecoglo Directional Signs come with universally compatible mounting hardware that allows for simple installation on any indoor surface, like walls, floors, staircases, doorways, walkways, etc. They can even be used as freestanding signs with additional mounting stands. The variety of sizes and mounting options available make integration into any space quick and easy.
Ecoglo Directional Signs offer the optimal solution for facility safety, emergency preparedness, and building code compliance for any building or construction project. Their self-illuminating photoluminescent quality makes them ideal for installation indoors where traditional signs would be ineffective. By choosing these innovative exit signs available at Tactilesolution.ca, Canadian contractors and builders can achieve the highest safety and risk mitigation standards on their projects.
14th Jul 2023
In today's fast-paced environment, ensuring the safety and accessibility of every person is of paramount importance. Surface Applied Detectable Warning Systems play a crucial role in creating an inclusive environment for individuals with visual impairments.
As a Canadian supplier of surface-applied detectable warning systems, Tactile Solution Canada aims to create empowering civic spaces where people of all abilities can participate fully. Our photoluminescent stair nosings, Access Tile surface-applied tiles, and TWSI provide critical wayfinding for visually impaired Canadians, allowing freedom of movement and mitigating accidents.
For contractors and building owners seeking to serve citizens with accessibility needs, the benefits of these systems are manifold:
Our surface-applied detectable warning systems provide tactile feedback underfoot, alerting pedestrians to changes in grade or potential hazards. By incorporating these warnings at high-risk intersections or transit areas, municipalities can reduce accidents and foster secure navigation for citizens with visual impairments. The distinctive texture also helps differentiate walkways from roadways, minimizing confusion.
Surface Applied Tiles are an innovative solution for visually impaired individuals, providing a discernible warning underfoot, alerting them of potential hazards. Designed to be simply installed over existing flooring, these tiles offer an affordable option compared to conventional wet set tiles. Their ease and speed of installation, along with their environmentally-friendly composition, make them an attractive choice.
Meeting and exceeding accessibility standards, Surface Applied Tiles are particularly effective in signaling when pedestrians are approaching an unsafe edge or drop-off. Serving to enhance safety and comply with regulations, these tiles address the need for sustainable and responsible solutions. Surface Applied Tiles stand out as an accessible, ethical, and prudent option for creating tactile warnings on floor surfaces.
Tactile Solutions surface-applied tiles and stair nosings offer consistent tactile patterns that guide pedestrians along pathways and towards amenities. Strategically placed at entrances, stations, and walkways, these indicators empower visually impaired Canadians to travel autonomously and confidently within their community infrastructure.
Moreover, incorporating these warnings at intersections or other high-risk areas where pedestrian paths intersect with vehicular traffic can reduce accidents and ensure safer navigation for everyone. The distinctive texture also helps differentiate between pedestrian zones and vehicle lanes, minimizing confusion and promoting a secure environment.
Surface Applied Tiles provide an affordable solution for installing tactile floor warnings as required by the Tactile Warning Surface Indicator (TWSI) guidelines. These tiles are designed for easy customization and can be cut to suit various floor dimensions, shapes, and radius landings. Available in three standard colors identified by Federal color codes, Surface Applied Tiles are backed by a five-year manufacturer's warranty.
Meeting key accessibility requirements in an economical manner, these tiles are ideal for applications like exit staircases, exit vestibules, lobbies, and corridors. Their ability to be modified for different configurations and sizes makes them versatile for signaling potential hazards across various indoor floor surfaces. The choice of standard color options and comprehensive warranty provides additional benefits and assurance to users.
As a Canadian company, Tactile Solution adheres to standards set by acts like AODA, IBC, and CSA to ensure our products meet or exceed accessibility regulations across the country. Municipalities that incorporate our surface-applied detectable warning systems demonstrate their commitment to an inclusive civic terrain where people of all abilities have equal access.
Our surface-applied warning systems are made by trusted manufacturers like Access Tile from durable, weather-resistant materials designed for extreme conditions. Unlike alternative options, these systems can withstand heavy use without compromising functionality or lifespan. Their modular design also allows for the affordable replacement of damaged sections, reducing long-term costs.
Inclusive civic design is essential for a country that celebrates diversity and believes in opportunity for all citizens. Surface-applied detectable warning systems foster a built environment where visually impaired Canadians can share public spaces freely and participate fully in society. Investment in these systems reflects the values of access, accommodation, and empowerment.
Surface-applied detectable warning systems from Tactile Solutions provide substantial advantages for Canadian contractors and building owners aiming to create a navigable, sustainable infrastructure that serves all citizens equally. Our products enhance safety, accessibility, and independence through thoughtful design tailored to Canada's unique needs.
For a civic terrain that empowers all users, surface-applied detectable warning systems are an investment in inclusion that will benefit communities for decades to come. We encourage builders and contractors across the country to incorporate these critical components into all public building projects. Together, we can construct a Canada without barriers.
7th Jul 2023
The installation of exquisite anti-slip stair nosing in an edifice is absolutely essential to ensure the health and safety of the denizens as well as to augment the pulchritude of the infrastructure. The authorities have implemented specific mandatory regulations like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act or AODA since 2005 to guarantee that the proprietors and contractors oblige to the rules while erecting any building. One of the most effective ways to conform to these regulations is to utilize the sublime Code-Compliant Stair Edge Nosing Solutions while designing the architecture.
Within the lofty skyscrapers, the stairways act as one of the most pivotal safety aspects that enables the occupants to exit securely in any circumstance. Stairway safety is crucial for emergency egress, and anti-slip stair nosings are essential in maximizing the safety of all the stairways in numerous ways.
The venerable Chapter 10 of the International Building Code encompasses all the means of egress within a building and dedicates a special section for stair nosings. Section 1011 explicitly specifies the regulations for stair nosings. The prerequisites outlined in the IBC ensure that the stair nosings within a facility are uniform and installed securely. To mitigate the tripping hazards, the stair nosings must not protrude more than 11⁄4 inch or 32 mm from the stair tread. Also, the stair nosings in any stairwell are required to be uniform to boost safety.
The anti-slip stair nosings can improve safety within a facility in various ways. Firstly, the stair nosings provide a non-slip grip to reduce the risk of slips and trips, irrespective of the conditions. Moreover, the stair nosings provide a stark color contrast against the stair. This color contrast enables increased visibility of the step-edge for all the occupants.
Many stair nosings feature a photoluminescent strip. This photoluminescent strip increases the color contrast between the step-edge and the substrate and provides excellent visibility of the step-edge in all lighting conditions. The photoluminescent stair nosings shall be applied according to section 1011 of the International Building Code and provide a brightly lit stairway even after the power failure in the facility. The luminescent light does not create shadows and glows brightly so that even in emergency conditions, the occupants can easily navigate the stairways safely.
When pondering how people ascend or descend a flight of stairs or observing others doing the same, one would notice that most of us step right onto the edge of the stair. As a result, this is the first part of the stair to exhibit signs of wear and tear. The signs of wear and tear can make a facility appear outdated and unmaintained, hampering the aesthetics of the building. Some people may even question the stairway’s safety if all the stairs appear battered.
The stair nosings are an excellent way to not only protect the steps from wear and tear but also to maintain the beauty of the facility. The stair nosings are applied where most people commonly step, the step-edge, to protect the stairs from the heaviest wear and tear. The carpet stair nosings prevent rips and tears in the carpet, which can pose a safety risk and make the building look old and run down. The solid stair nosings help to avoid any marks or chips on the stair. The sleek stair nosing helps to modernize the appearance of the building and protects the step edges in the facility from unsightly wear and tear.
Without the utilization of stair nosings, one may have to renovate, remodel or even redo the stairways over time, especially in buildings with heavy foot traffic. Safeguarding the investment from the outset is a cost-effective way to ensure that the stairways continue to remain safe without maintenance. The Ecoglo anti-slip stair nosings are sturdy enough to withstand even the heaviest foot traffic without exhibiting signs of wear and tear.
With the use of stair nosings, one can increase the lifespan of the stairways in the facility by protecting the step-edge and enhancing the safety of the occupants and residents. Although occasionally an afterthought, for anyone aspiring to upgrade the safety in their facility while improving the appearance, the stair nosings should be the most obvious choice!
At Tactile Solution Canada, we offer photoluminescent and non-photoluminescent Ecoglo stair nosings that can be “glued” or "screwed” to the existing surface and are incredibly durable and have been tested to withstand even the heaviest foot traffic. Each stair nosings features a non-slip grip to prevent injury and promote safety in the building.
Prioritize the stairway safety in your facility by contacting Tactile Solution Canada today!
7th Jul 2023
In our fast-paced world, safety and accessibility in public spaces should be a top priority. One crucial aspect that demands special attention is flooring, especially for those with visual impairments.
Enter Armor Tile - a reliable and effective solution that ensures enhanced safety and convenience for everyone. This specialized flooring system has been designed to help individuals with visual impairments navigate their surroundings confidently while prioritizing safety. Keep reading to discover more about the benefits of using the Armor Tile Tactile System.
Armor-Tile provides a broad range of detectable warning tactile systems that meet Full AODA/CSA/ISO and OBC compliance standards. These products are versatile and can be used in various locations, such as transit platforms, curb ramps, stairwells, escalator approaches, pedestrian crossings, parking areas, reflecting pools, multi-modal transit centers, and building entrances.
Armor Tile is available in two primary types: Cast-in-place Armor Tile and Surface Applied Armor Tile.
Armor-Tile Cast in Place Tactile systems involve embedding the tactile indicators directly into wet concrete during the construction or renovation process. This type of installation provides a seamless and long-lasting solution that becomes an integral part of the flooring.
Surface Applied Armor Tile, as the name suggests, is applied directly on top of existing surfaces using appropriate adhesives. This type of installation is ideal for retrofitting projects or situations where removing the existing flooring is not feasible. Surface Applied Armor Tile offers a convenient and effective way to upgrade accessibility in various environments.
Safety is a paramount concern in public spaces, and Armor Tile Tactile System provides an effective way to enhance safety. The tactile indicators help individuals with visual impairments to navigate their surroundings confidently. By incorporating Armor Tile tactile systems, you can create a safer environment that promotes inclusivity and reduces the risk of accidents.
In Canada, ensuring accessibility for all is not just a moral obligation but also a legal requirement. Armor Tile's tactile systems are compliant with AODA/CSA/ISO and OBC standards. By choosing Armor Tile Tactile System, you demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity and create a safe environment for everyone, especially people with visual impairments.
The Armor Tile Tactile System comes in a range of sizes and colors to help business owners and contractors create distinctive and visually pleasing surfaces. It can match the surrounding aesthetics while maintaining compliance with accessibility standards. Whether it's an urban area, a park, or a transportation hub, the Armor Tile Tactile System has the ideal solution for all your tactile flooring requirements.
The Armor Tile Tactile System boasts impressive durability and strength, making it an excellent choice for areas with high foot traffic. Its ability to withstand heavy loads, deflect impacts, and brave harsh weather conditions speaks to its exceptional longevity. This system is particularly adept at standing up to wear and tear, ensuring it will remain functional for a long time to come.
Armor Tile Tactile System is known for its remarkable durability and strength, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Its capacity to endure heavy loads, deflect impacts, and withstand bad weather ensures its longevity.
Armor Tile's tactile flooring solutions are designed for hassle-free installation. Cast-in-place tiles are integrated into the concrete during construction, while surface-applied tiles can easily adhere to existing surfaces. Additionally, Armor Tiles require minimal maintenance, saving time and effort in upkeep.
Armor Tile Tactile System is the ultimate solution for enhancing safety and accessibility while meeting compliance standards. Its durability, versatility, and easy installation make it an ideal choice for various public spaces. Take a step towards improved safety and accessibility by visiting our Armor Tile Tactile System section today. You can rely on Tactile Solution Canada as your go-to provider for the Armor Tile Tactile System.
7th Jul 2023
In emergency situations, especially during power outages or in low light conditions, having clear and visible signage can be critical for the safety of individuals. That's where photoluminescent emergency exit signs come into play. These innovative signs offer a reliable and efficient solution for guiding people toward exits and ensuring a swift and orderly evacuation. This blog will explore the benefits of photoluminescent emergency exit signs and how they can help people evacuate in low-light conditions.
When emergencies strike, such as fires, earthquakes, or power failures, it is crucial to have clear evacuation pathways and exit signs that remain visible even in low-light situations. Traditional exit signs rely on electricity to remain lit, making them ineffective during power outages. This is where photoluminescent emergency exit signs prove to be a reliable and efficient solution.
Photoluminescent technology is based on the principle of absorbing and storing light energy from ambient sources and then releasing it as a glow when the lights go out. Photoluminescent materials are typically made of phosphors that possess the unique ability to absorb and emit light. These materials charge quickly under normal lighting conditions and emit light gradually over an extended period.
Photoluminescent exit signs provide enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The emitted glow is bright and easily distinguishable, ensuring that people can swiftly locate exit routes and emergency exits.
Unlike traditional exit signs, photoluminescent signs do not rely on electricity to remain illuminated. This makes them highly reliable during power failures or any situation where electricity is unavailable.
Photoluminescent materials have a prolonged glowing capability, making them highly durable and long-lasting. They can remain illuminated for hours after being exposed to ambient light, ensuring continuous visibility throughout an evacuation process.
Photoluminescent exit signs are eco-friendly as they do not consume electricity. They reduce energy consumption and contribute to a greener environment, aligning with sustainable practices.
In Canada, building codes and regulations play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants. Photoluminescent emergency exit signs meet the requirements set by Canadian codes and regulations, making them a suitable choice for contractors and building owners. They adhere to the guidelines established by organizations such as the National Fire Code of Canada (NFCC) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
To ensure safety in emergency situations, it's crucial to have exit signs that meet code compliance. That's why all exit signs must be ULC S572 certified, which guarantees they've gone through rigorous testing and will perform when needed the most.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) was enacted on June 13, 2005, to ensure accessibility standards that benefit all Ontarians. The ultimate goal is to achieve inclusivity and equal access for individuals with disabilities concerning goods, services, facilities, employment opportunities, accommodation options, as well as buildings' structures and premises by January 1st, 2025.
To further reinforce this commitment towards accessibility acts in Ontario, the new Building Code regulations were amended accordingly via Ontario Regulation 368/13 dated December 27th,2013 which made it mandatory for businesses to comply with updated standards reflecting a higher degree of accessibility requirements. These amendments came into effect from January 1st, 2015, onwards, providing ample preparation time frames for those concerned.
Installing photoluminescent exit signs is a straightforward process. They can be easily mounted on walls, doors, or ceilings using adhesive or screws. It is essential to ensure proper placement for maximum visibility.
Maintenance of photoluminescent exit signs is minimal. Regular cleaning with non-abrasive materials and keeping the signs free from obstructions are typically sufficient to maintain their effectiveness.
Photoluminescent exit signs offer cost savings over time. They eliminate the need for electrical connections, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility costs. Additionally, their long lifespan minimizes replacement and maintenance expenses.
By installing photoluminescent emergency exit signs, contractors in Canada can contribute to the safety and well-being of building occupants. These signs provide clear guidance during emergencies, reduce panic, and facilitate a swift and organized evacuation process. They instill confidence in occupants and ensure their peace of mind.
Product feature of Ecoglo Standard Series Photoluminescent Exit Sign System available at Tactile Solution Canada
Photoluminescent emergency exit signs offer a reliable and efficient solution for guiding people during evacuations, especially in low-light conditions. With their increased visibility, independence from electrical power, and compliance with Canadian codes, these signs are an excellent choice for contractors in Canada. By prioritizing safety and incorporating photoluminescent technology, contractors can create safer environments for building occupants. Tactile Solution Canada is your go-to solution provider for photoluminescent exit signs. Discover our range of Ecoglo photoluminescent exit signs today and make your facility smartly accessible.
Yes, photoluminescent exit signs are suitable for a wide range of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial structures.
Photoluminescent exit signs have minimal maintenance requirements. Regular cleaning and keeping them free from obstructions are usually sufficient.
Are photoluminescent exit signs compliant with Canadian building codes?
Yes, photoluminescent exit signs meet the requirements set by Canadian building codes and regulations, ensuring their suitability for use in Canada.
Photoluminescent exit signs can remain illuminated for 70 hours after 1 hour of 54 lux charging, ensuring visibility during an evacuation.
No, photoluminescent exit signs do not require any electrical connections. They operate independently, making them highly reliable during power outages.
7th Jul 2023
In the bustling world we live in, accessibility and safety are paramount. Whether it's navigating through public spaces or shopping centers, individuals with visual impairments require tactile indicators to enhance their mobility and ensure their well-being.
Among the many options available in the market, Elan Porcelain Tactile Indicators have emerged as reliable solutions for contractors and business owners alike. With its durable construction, versatility, and aesthetic appeal, Elan Porcelain Tactile Indicators offer a seamless blend of functionality and style. In this blog post, we’ll cover all you need to know about Elan Porcelain Tactile Indicators. Read out to know!
Elan Tile stands out as the top porcelain tactile indicator chosen by experts in the field of designing and constructing premium commercial, institutional spaces. With its exceptional composition of top-quality materials, ElanTM Tile surpasses the rigorous EN 14411 standard, earning the esteemed designation of "Porcelain Stoneware" and ensuring its suitability for indoor uses. The Elan Tile line represents the latest generation of excellence from Kinesik, a company that specializes in providing solutions for accessibility and safety in the built environment.
Elan Tile Porcelain Tactile Indicator Wayfinding Bars are specifically designed for style and engineered for excellent performance. These wayfinding bars use the highest-quality raw materials, enabling them to meet the standards of Porcelain Stoneware and are appropriate for use in indoor applications.
Elan Tile Wayfinding Bars offer durable and versatile walking surfaces with directional indicators. These indicators are crucial for the effective and safe navigation of visually impaired individuals within their surroundings. By following the path created by the Porcelain Wayfinding Bars, pedestrians can confidently and correctly reach their desired destinations.
Elan Tile Porcelain Wayfinding Bars prioritize safety, convenience, and compliance with relevant codes and regulations.
Features
Elan Tile's Porcelain Tactile Indicator Attention Domes are designed using the finest quality raw materials, enabling the product to meet the standards of Porcelain Stoneware. These tactile indicators are suitable for use interior applications.
Elan Tile serves as a warning to pedestrians about potentially hazardous conditions ahead, such as the end of a curb or an edge drop-off. They are designed to enhance accessibility and ensure the safety of all individuals. Elan Tile Porcelain Attention Domes are fully compliant with the Canadian Accessibility code.
Features:
If you have any specific questions about Elan Tile Porcelain Tactile Indicators, or need assistance in choosing the right tactile solution for your project, you can visit https://www.tactilesolution.ca/ or contact us anytime.
7th Jul 2023
If you're on the hunt for an affordable and totally legit solution to spruce up those tactile warning surfaces in your fancy interior projects, then you got to check out the Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile. Trust us; this thing is a game-changer! It's the only fire-resistant tactile tile in town that meets all the requirements of the Ontario Building Code and other Canadian codes. In this nifty guide, we're going to break it down for you—what it is, how it works, and why it's the bee's knees for your next big project. So, buckle up, and let's dive right in!
Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile is a product that provides tactile walking surface indicators (TWSI) with truncated domes for interior applications in high-rise buildings and is mandatory in buildings higher than 7 floors. TWSI is designed to alert people with visual impairments of potential hazards or changes in direction on the floor surface. Truncated domes are raised bumps that can be felt through footwear or detected by a cane.
Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile is made of a proprietary composite material called FIRESENTRY-X™, which has a low flame spread and smoke development rating. This means that the product can withstand high temperatures and prevent fire from spreading in case of an emergency. The product also has high slip resistance, durability, and strength, making it suitable for various environments and traffic conditions.
Access Tile® FR is fully compliant with all Canadian Accessibility Codes and meets the standards set by the Ontario Building Code (OBC) 2012 Table 3.1.13.7, ensuring that your premises are easily accessible to everyone.
Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile can be easily installed on any existing concrete surface using adhesive, anchors, and stainless-steel pins. The product comes in six different sizes and three standard colors (federal yellow, dark grey, and onyx black) and can be cut to fit any shape or radius. The product also features beveled edges that make a smooth transition between the tile and the floor surface.
The product works by providing a contrast in texture, color, and sound between the tile and the surrounding floor surface. This contrast helps people with visual impairments identify the tile's location and direction and the hazard it indicates. For example, the tile can be used to mark the edge of a stairwell, a vestibule to an exit stair or lobby, or a corridor. The tile also helps people without visual impairments to notice the hazard and avoid accidents.
There are many reasons to choose Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile for your interior projects, such as:
Tiles can be cut to custom sizes or to make a radius using a continuous-rim diamond blade in a circular saw or mini-grinder. The use of a straightedge to guide the cut is advisable where appropriate.
If you are interested in learning more about Access Tile® Surface Applied Fire Resistant Tactile, please visit our solutions section or contact us today. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best tactile solution for your project.
28th Jun 2023
In today's world, it is essential to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity when it comes to public spaces. People with visual impairments face many challenges in navigating their surroundings. That's where the Access Tile Detectable Warning System comes in - an effective solution designed to help visually impaired individuals navigate their surrounding safely & confidently.
Detectable Warning Systems are not only a great way to comply with accessibility guidelines, but they are also a legal requirement under the CSA Act and other international standards. So whether you're a business owner or contractor, installing these systems can help you avoid potential lawsuits and penalties. In this blog post, we'll cover the different types of Access Tile Detectable Warning Systems to help you make an informed decision. Read out to know!
Access Tile Detectable Warning Systems are strategically installed in public spaces to alert visually impaired pedestrians of potential hazards or directions. These safety flooring systems are installed in curb ramps, doors, elevators, lifts, transit platforms, stairwells, and marinas.
They consist of truncated domes, also known as tactile paving or tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs), which can be detected by the use of a cane or underfoot, providing vital information about changes in the environment.
Access Tile Detectable Warning Systems provide tactile indicators that can be felt through a cane or underfoot, alerting visually impaired individuals to potential hazards, such as street crossings or changes in elevation. These systems significantly enhance safety by enabling users to detect and avoid obstacles.
Access Tile Detectable Warning Systems are designed to meet the accessibility requirements outlined in regulations like the CSA or AODA Act. By installing these systems, public spaces can ensure compliance with accessibility standards and create an inclusive environment for all individuals.
Access Tile Detectable Warning Systems are engineered for long-lasting performance. They are designed from durable materials that can withstand heavy foot traffic, extreme weather conditions, and other environmental factors. Additionally, these systems require minimal maintenance, reducing the long-term costs associated with upkeep.
Access Tile Detectable Warning Systems are available in various types to accommodate different installation requirements and environments. The three main types include:
The Replaceable Cast-in-Place tiles are installed directly into wet
concrete, effectively integrating the industry's foremost replaceability feature for tactile warning systems.
The Access Tile Replaceable Cast-in Place tile indicators are designed to be embedded directly into the concrete, providing a long-lasting and reliable tactile surface for both interior and exterior applications. They comply with Canadian accessibility codes and feature a non-slip texture to enhance safety for all pedestrians. The Access Tile Replaceable Cast-in Place tile indicators are lightweight, durable, and perfect for inside and outside applications, such as:
Access® Tile Replaceable Cast-in-Place Tiles are divided into types: Attention Domes and Wayfinding Bars.
Attention Domes: Access Tile's Cast in Place Replaceable Tactile Attention Domes are durable and compliant with Canadian accessibility codes. Installed into wet set concrete at building exits, they provide a safe barrier-free path for pedestrians to cross and can withstand weather and wear and tear.
Wayfinding Bars: Access Tile Replaceable Cast in Place Tactile Walking Surface Indicators are durable, non-slip tiles installed directly into concrete. They comply with Canadian accessibility codes and are ideal for interior and exterior applications. With Access Tile Cast in Place Wayfinding Bars, pedestrians can safely navigate the environment through barrier-free pathways.
Access® Tile Surface Applied Tiles are specifically designed to be installed on top of any existing flooring- providing a detectable tactile warning for visually impaired individuals. These tiles are particularly useful in alerting pedestrians when they have reached an unsafe edge. Access Tile Surface Applied Tiles offer a cost-effective alternative to wet set Cast in Place tiles, making them a popular choice.
The Surface Applied Tile stands out as the easiest and fastest option available in the market. It is also environmentally conscious, addressing the need for sustainable solutions. Furthermore, Access Tile Surface Applied Tiles fully comply with Canadian Accessibility codes, ensuring adherence to regulations and guidelines.
Access® Tile Surface-Applied Tiles are divided into types: Attention Domes and Wayfinding Bars.
Attention Domes: Access Tile Surface Applied Domes are affordable detectable warning tiles that are slip-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and abrasion-resistant. They're perfect for retrofitting and can be used in many situations, including transit stations, curb ramps, pedestrian crossings, parking areas, stair landings, and escalator approaches. These tactile attention domes are especially useful for those with visual impairments, as they can be felt through footwear and provide unique sound reflection for guidance canes. With different colors available, they provide visual contrast to warn the public when they have reached an unsafe edge.
Wayfinding Bars: Access Tile Surface Applied tiles are the top choice for Tactile Walking Surface Indicators. Easy to handle and install on large open floor areas, the indicated routes with wayfinding bars lead from the entrance to major destinations, such as an information kiosk, registration desk, stairway, elevator, scalators, or store or service doors. Access Tile offers a cost-effective and compliant solution that includes Wayfinding bars for barrier-free navigation. Access Tile Way finding bars also creates barrier-free pathways - ensuring that all pedestrians can navigate their environment safely.
Access Tile Surface Applied Fire Retardant FIRESENTRY-X Composite Technology offers exceptional resistance against fire. Access Tile Fire Resistant FR complies with the ULC-S 102.2 fire standard, limiting flames to less than 25 and smoke to less than 50.
This fire-resistant tile is the first composite tile to meet the requirements of the Ontario building code. They are compliant to both building code and Fire code and mandatory in all buildings that are higher than 7 floors. Access Tile FR is a cost-effective interior solution for applying TWSI (Tactile Warning Surface Indicators) on tactile warning floor surfaces in areas such as exit stairwells, vestibules to exit stairs, lobbies, and corridors. The Ontario tactile walking surface indicators Surface Applied Fire-Resistant tile is available in three different colors and various sizes to meet the specifications of your building.
28th Jun 2023
Stairs are one of the most common and essential features of any building, but they can pose a serious safety hazard if not properly designed and maintained. Slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and lack of visibility can lead to falls, injuries, and even fatalities. That’s why it’s crucial for contractors to install stair edge nosing that provides slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking.
One of the best products on the market for this purpose is Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing. Ecoglo is a leading manufacturer of photoluminescent and non-slip stair-nosing solutions that are durable, versatile, and code compliant. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain what Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is, how it works, what its benefits are, and how to install it on different types of stairs.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is an aluminum stair nosing with a hard-wearing silicon carbide slip-resistance material that is integrally bonded to it. It also has a photoluminescent strip that glows in the dark after being exposed to natural or artificial light. Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing comes in various shapes and sizes to fit different applications and substrates.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing can be installed on concrete, wood, metal, tile, carpet, and resilient flooring stairs. It can be installed in two ways: either by gluing or screwing it to an existing surface or by casting it into wet concrete. Ecoglo provides all the necessary tools and instructions for a smooth and easy installation.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing works by providing three essential functions: slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking.
Slip resistance: The silicon carbide material on the stair nosing provides a high level of friction that prevents slips and falls on wet or dry surfaces. It is also abrasion resistant and can withstand years of heavy foot traffic without wearing out.
Step edge contrast: The stair nosing provides a clear visual distinction between the step edge and the tread or riser. This helps people to see where they are stepping and avoid missteps or trips. The contrast is especially important for people with low vision or color blindness.
Luminous egress path marking: The photoluminescent strip on the stair nosing emits a bright glow in the dark after being charged by natural or artificial light. This helps people to find their way out of a building in case of a power outage or emergency. The glow lasts for hours and exceeds the emergency egress requirements.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing offers many benefits for contractors and building owners alike. Some of these benefits are:
Safety: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing reduces the risk of slips and falls on stairs by providing slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking. It also helps to comply with the building codes and standards on accessibility and fire safety.
Durability: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is made of high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, UV exposure, scratches, and abrasion. It also requires very little maintenance and has a long lifespan.
Versatility: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing can be installed on various types of stairs and substrates. It also comes in different shapes and sizes to suit different applications and preferences.
Aesthetics: Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing adds a sleek and modern look to any stairway and enhances the stairs’ appearance by providing a uniform and neat finish.
Photoluminescent: Ecoglo Photoluminescent Cast in Place Stair Nosings are durable and efficient products that enhance step-edge visibility and safety in any light condition. They are installed into wet concrete and have a non-slip material with photoluminescent technology that glows in the dark for hours. They are also eco-friendly and meet the building code requirements for high rises.
Non-Photoluminescent: Ecoglo Non-Photoluminescent Step Edge Cast in Place Stair Nosings are aluminum step nosings installed into wet concrete and fit to the edge of stairs. They provide step-edge contrast, anti-slip protection, and a modern look. They are made of non-slip material and aluminum with an anodized finish that is durable, corrosion-resistant, and weather resistant. They are designed for step-edge safety and visibility.
Photoluminescent: Ecoglo Non-Slip Photoluminescent Step Edge Contrast Strip is a product that provides slip resistance and step edge visibility in any light condition. It is made of non-slip material and aluminum with a photoluminescent strip that glows in the dark for hours. It is suitable for stairs that need luminous path markings by code. It is easy to install and exceeds the performance standards for photoluminescent path marking.
Non-Photoluminescent Surface Applied Anti-Slip Strips: Ecoglo provides anti-slip strips to prevent slips or falls on stairs in all weather conditions. Ecoglo's non-photoluminescent anti-slip strips come in three colors - black, yellow, and gray - and two sizes to fit any stairs. These durable, weather-resistant, UV-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy-to-clean strips are made of hard-wearing silicon carbide. Ecoglo's non-photoluminescent, non-slip strips provide an extra non-slip grip for steps and highlight step edges to prevent slips and falls. Ecoglo's surface-applied anti-slip strips are the ideal safety solution for preventing slips and fall on any staircase. The strips offer a secure solution for all seasons and step types.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing can be installed in two ways: by gluing or screwing it to an existing surface or by casting it into wet concrete.
1. Gluing or screwing: This method is suitable for installing stair nosing on concrete, wood, metal, tile, carpet, or resilient flooring stairs. The steps are as follows:
Clean the surface of the stairs and make sure it is dry and free of dust or debris.
Cut the stair nosing to the desired length using a hacksaw or a chop saw.
Apply a bead of polyurethane adhesive along the back edge of the stair nosing.
Position the stair nosing on the step edge and press firmly.
Drill holes through the pre-punched holes on the stair nosing using a drill bit.
Insert screws through the holes and tighten them using a screwdriver.
Wipe off any excess adhesive using a cloth.
Repeat the process for each step.
2. Casting into wet concrete: This method is suitable for installing stair nosing on new concrete stairs. The steps are as follows:
Prepare the concrete mix according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pour the concrete mix into the formwork of the stairs.
Level the concrete surface using a trowel or a screed.
Place the stair nosing on the wet concrete along the step edge.
Press down gently until the stair nosing is flush with the concrete surface.
Tap lightly along the length of the stair, nosing using a rubber mallet to ensure proper bonding.
Repeat the process for each step.
Allow the concrete to cure completely before removing the formwork.
Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing is an innovative product that provides slip resistance, step edge contrast, and luminous egress path marking for stairs. It is durable, versatile, code compliant, and easy to install, and it also improves the safety and aesthetics of any stairway. If you are looking for a reliable and affordable solution for your stairway needs, look no further than Ecoglo Stair Edge Nosing solutions at your own website Tactile Solutions Canada.
1st Jun 2023
As cities continue to grow and evolve, it is more crucial than ever to ensure the security and accessibility of public areas. Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs) installation is a vital step in enhancing the mobility and safety of pedestrians.
With the installation of TWSI, visually impaired individuals can navigate unfamiliar surrounding safely and confidently. These indicators serve as a tangible communication channel, bridging the gap between the built environment and the needs of pedestrians with disabilities.
In Canada, the use of tactile walking surface indicators is mandatory as per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). To learn more about TWSI and how they contribute to safer pedestrian traveling, read out the blog post:
TWSIs, also known as tactile paving or detectable warning plates, are standardized patterns of textured ground surfaces that provide sensory feedback to pedestrians with visual impairments.
These indicators consist of raised truncated domes or bars that can be felt underfoot or detected with a mobility cane. It provides sensory feedback to individuals, alerting them to potential hazards or guiding them along a designated path. By enhancing navigation and safety, TWSIs serve as a valuable tool for visually impaired pedestrians.
TWSI, or detectable warning surfaces, are installed on sidewalks for pedestrians to provide individuals with visual impairments with important sensory information. These indicators help people with navigation, hazard identification, and direction. Using TWSI, visually impaired people can travel safely and more comfortably through the public spaces.
TWSI not only helps with navigation but also acts as a warning system for pedestrian crossings and hazardous areas. TWSI's distinctive patterns and colors might serve as a warning to pedestrians of the existence of busy intersections, railway crossings, or areas with potential dangers.
The AODA Act, implemented in Ontario, Canada, aims to make the province accessible for individuals with visual disabilities. As part of the act, it is mandatory to use TWSI in certain public spaces to ensure the safety and accessibility of pedestrian pathways. By incorporating TWSI, the AODA Act emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of their abilities.
Tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) are essential for improving the accessibility and independence of individuals with visual impairments.
By providing tactile cues and underfoot feedback, TWSIs enable pedestrians to detect changes in their path, such as upcoming intersections, stairs, or other potentially dangerous areas. These indicators consist of detectable, raised patterns that are easily identifiable by touch, allowing visually impaired individuals to navigate confidently and efficiently.
The main goal of Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs) is to enhance safety and minimize risks for pedestrians, especially those with visual impairments. By incorporating tactile indicators at specific locations, such as curb ramps and transit stops, potential hazards can be effectively communicated to individuals relying on their sense of touch.. This proactive safety measure plays a crucial role in preventing accidents and creating a more inclusive environment for all people.
The implementation of TWSIs, in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and its guidelines, brings consistency and standardization to public spaces. These indicators are carefully designed to ensure uniformity and ease of recognition, allowing individuals to navigate confidently and independently.
By adhering to the guidelines set forth by the AODA, businesses can create a harmonized environment where TWSIs are consistently present and appropriately placed. This consistency helps individuals with visual impairments develop a mental map of their surroundings, enhancing their ability to navigate public spaces with greater confidence and safety.
TWSIs are utilized in a variety of locations to provide crucial information to pedestrians with visual impairments. Here are some key areas where the use of tactile indicators is common:
Crosswalks and intersections are high-traffic areas where pedestrians need clear and concise cues to navigate safely. TWSIs are employed to mark crosswalks, signaling pedestrians when they have reached a designated crossing point. These indicators often feature distinctive patterns, such as truncated domes, to differentiate them from the surrounding surfaces.
Transit platforms and stations can be challenging environments with multiple pathways, stairs, and boarding areas. Tactile walking surface indicators are strategically placed to direct people to boarding zones, ticket booths, and other essential points of interest within the transit system. This enables visually impaired commuters to confidently navigate public transportation networks.
Pedestrian islands and medians help divide busy roadways, offering pedestrians a safe space to pause during their journey. TWSIs are incorporated into these areas to alert individuals with visual impairments of the separation between vehicle lanes. By providing tactile guidance, these indicators facilitate the decision-making process when crossing multiple lanes of traffic.
TWSI plays a significant role in the government buildings, such as city halls and libraries, and other public spaces, such as parks and sidewalks, to help people with visual impairments safely and independently navigate these environments.
Installing TWSIs is a crucial step in making pedestrian traveling safer. Not only does it help to meet legal requirements, but it also improves safety and navigation for all pedestrians.
At Tactile Solutions, we are committed to providing reliable, superior-quality TWSIs that meet or exceed all relevant regulations and specifications. We offer a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes to meet the specific needs of each project. In addition, our TWSIs are designed for easy installation and long-lasting performance, ensuring that contractors or businesses can meet their accessibility obligations with confidence.
1st Jun 2023
Have you ever wondered how you would find your way out of a building in case of an emergency, especially if the power goes out or there is smoke in the air? Or how would you navigate a dark or dimly lit venue without tripping or bumping into obstacles? Or how would you communicate important information to your staff or visitors in case of a disaster?
If you have, then you might be interested in learning more about Ecoglo, which specializes in photoluminescent exit signs and egress path markers that can provide a clear and reliable guidance system in any situation.
Ecoglo International was established in 1997 and has developed advanced photoluminescent technology to create high visibility stair edge nosing and evacuation route products like emergency exit signs and handrail systems that never fail. Ecoglo tactile solutions are designed to comply with international building codes to meet exit sign and emergency lighting requirements, including ULC572S, UL924 signs, NFPA 101 Solutions and International Fire Code Solutions.
Made with a patented manufacturing process known as High-Temperature Curing or HTC, Ecoglo products are extremely durable and have a minimum indoor life expectancy of 30 years. Compare this with mass-produced PVC products, which very quickly degrade with UV exposure. Ecoglo products are sustainable, use no electricity and cost a fraction of the electrical alternative. The photoluminescent pigments in Ecoglo products absorb and store both natural and recycled electrical light before re-emitting the energy as a glow when the lights go out.
The market for emergency lighting systems has traditionally been dominated by the electrical industry, but the innovative technology behind Ecoglo photoluminescent systems has disrupted this practice and delivers real cost and sustainability advantages to the economy. Ecoglo products are reliable, with no lamp or battery failure and virtually no maintenance costs. All Ecoglo products have met internationally accredited testing and can be seen in many installations around the world, including Dubai's Burj Khalifa, Melbourne Cricket Ground and New York City Transit.
Ecoglo has also been installed in thousands of offices, hospitals, airports, transit and infrastructure facilities, universities, warehouses and stadiums worldwide. Ecoglo offers an ever-evolving range of products, including exit signage, step edging, path and handrail markers, fire protection signs, disaster preparedness signs, and next-generation Hybrid LED/PL Exit Sign Systems.
Ecoglo products are designed to provide the following benefits for your pathfinding needs:
Step edge contrast: Ecoglo products have a photoluminescent colored anti-slip strip that provides excellent contrast and visibility for the edge of each step in all lighting conditions.
Visibility in all light conditions: Ecoglo products have a PL strip that glows brightly in the dark for hours, giving your patrons confidence and direction in exiting, even in an emergency.
Slip-resistance: Ecoglo products have a hard-wearing silicon carbide non-slip material that reduces slips and falls in all weather conditions.
Resistance to wear: Ecoglo products are made of durable aluminum and polymer that can withstand thousands of people walking on them without losing their luminance or performance.
Ecoglo’s products are designed to meet or exceed the most stringent building codes and standards around the world, such as NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and International Fire Code (IFC) / International Building Code (IBC). They are also cost-effective, environmentally friendly, easy to install and maintain, and suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Ecoglo offers a wide range of products for different applications and settings, such as:
Exit signs: Ecoglo’s exit signs are UL 924 certified and comply with many international building codes. They are available in various shapes, sizes, colors, and languages. They can also be customized to suit your specific needs and preferences. Ecoglo’s exit signs do not require electricity or batteries, and they are visible in all light conditions.
Egress path markers: Ecoglo’s egress path markers include step edge contrast strips, non-slip strips, guidance strips, handrail strips, perimeter demarcation lines, obstacle markers, door frame markings, emergency exit symbols, and door hardware markings. They are designed to outline the exit path and highlight important features such as steps, landings, doors, handrails, obstacles, and information placards. They are also slip-resistant and abrasion-resistant.
Emergency signage: Ecoglo’s emergency signage includes evacuation maps, running man signs, fire extinguisher signs, and disaster preparedness signs. They are designed to provide clear and concise information and instructions to occupants in case of an emergency. They are also easy to read and understand in all light conditions.
Stadium and venue products: Ecoglo’s stadium and venue products include aisle and seat markers, handrail markers, step edging products, directional markers, floor identification markers, hybrid signs, and best practice photoluminescent path marking solutions. They are designed to enhance the safety and visibility of patrons and staff in stadia, arenas, theatres, cinemas, concert halls, auditoriums, museums, galleries, and other types of venues. They are also ideal for low-light and dark events.
|
Criteria |
Ecoglo |
Traditional |
|
Effectiveness |
- Can provide over 100 hours of continuous illumination from photoluminescent pigments - Can create a clear image of the exit path by outlining steps, landings, doors, etc. - Can show the safe exit path even in heavy smoke - Can recharge for a 2-hour evacuation in as little as 10 minutes |
- Can experience problems with partial or total failure - Have limited operating time - Cast insufficient light - Can be easily extinguished by smoke - Cast shadows that obscure the exit path - Require a battery or generator system that could fail or take up to 7 days to recharge |
|
Installation |
- Can be completed by any competent handyman |
- Require costly installation by electricians |
|
Maintenance |
- Require occasional dusting |
- Require annual inspection and regular replacement of bulbs, batteries, or generators |
|
Life Span |
- Have a 35-year life-span - Can be recycled |
- Have a 2-7-year life-span - Are not recyclable |
|
Environmental Impact |
- Are not radioactive or toxic and use no energy |
- Use energy and generate waste |
For stairways requiring outstanding durability, safety, accessibility and service life at a competitive price, look no further than compliant workplace solutions like Ecoglo's non-photoluminescent and photoluminescent cast-in-place and surface applied stair edge nosings and emergency exit signs at Tactile Solutions Canada. Leave a lasting impression by partnering with us to facilitate mobility and independence for all building users. Trust Tactile Solutions Canada as your source for code-compliant tactile solutions.
30th May 2023
In today's world, creating inclusive and accessible public spaces is of utmost importance. Public spaces, such as rest stops, shopping centers, playgrounds, etc., must prioritize the needs of individuals with visual impairments or disabilities.
One crucial aspect of accessibility is the implementation of Attention Tactile Solutions, specifically CSA-Compliant Attention Tiles. CSA-Compliance refers to adhering to the standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) for Attention Tactile Solutions.
These attention tiles guide and alert individuals to potential hazards or changes in their surroundings, ensuring their safety and convenience. In this blog post, we'll cover the different types of attention-tactile solutions for public spaces.
Canadian accessibility codes mandate the installation of Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI) to alert visually impaired individuals about potentially hazardous areas, enabling them to navigate public spaces safely and independently.
These solutions typically involve the installation of attention tiles on walking surfaces. By detecting the attention tiles through their canes or feet, visually impaired individuals can gather essential information about their surroundings, such as changes in direction, hazards, or entrances.
The Code-Compliant Tactile Solutions with truncated domes are designed in various materials, colors, and sizes to assure compliance in all situations, whether inside or outside, on newly constructed or on retrofit and existing surfaces.
There is a wide range of attention-tactile solutions available, mainly categorized into two types: "cast-in-place" tiles and "surface applied tiles".
Advantage Replaceable Cast Iron Tactile Walking Surface Indicator (TWSI) plates are designed in strict accordance with ASTM A-48, Class 35B Grey Cast Iron. The Cast in Place System is lightweight with exceptionally high strength and uses advanced metallurgical Engineering Science and Technology to surpass municipal standards. These tiles offer a reliable way to improve safety and accessibility in any public space.
Features:
Lightweight and easy to install
Engineered to endure the toughest conditions, such as snow plows, overweight vehicular loads, and heavy pedestrian traffic
10-year manufacturer’s warranty
AccessTile Cast in Place Replaceable Tactile Attention Domes are leading the way in durability and detectability for tactile systems. This Canadian accessibility code-compliant Cast in Place truncated attention domes are suitable for all environments, providing top-quality solutions for tactile infrastructure products.
Access Tile Replaceable Cast in Place attention domes are installed in wet concrete at building exits near areas with moving vehicles. These detectable warning surfaces visually contrast the ground and provide a different texture to alert the people and help them navigate safely. These Replaceable Cast in Place tactile surface indicators are durable, weather-resistant, and proven to withstand wear and tear.
Features:
Advantage ONE Plate Tactile Walking Surface Indicators(TWSI) are designed for all interior accessibility solutions. They incorporate a textured stainless steel surface for long-lasting slip resistance. These products undergo rigorous testing to surpass guidelines set by AODA, CSA, ISO, and building codes at provincial and national levels.
Features:
Advantage Cast Iron Tactile Walking Surface Indicator (TWSI) plates are a reliable and time-tested solution for improving accessibility and safety. They offer several benefits, including aesthetic appeal, long-lasting durability, and a built-in slip-resistant surface for enhanced traction.
Features:
Armor-Tile Cast in place truncated domes are designed from a diamond-hard vitrified polymer composite material, making them an industry leader for their durability, strength, weather, and wear resistance.
The applications of tactile walking surface indicators (TWSI) extend beyond their use in truncated domes. They are also suitable for curb ramps, escalator approaches, parking areas, transit platforms, top-of-stair landings/wheelchair ramps, multimodal transit stations, pedestrian crossings, and vehicular passageways.
Armor Tile cast-in-place domes meet all the requirements set by Canadian accessibility codes such as AODA, CSA, ISO, as well as provincial and national building codes (specifically Ontario's tactile walking surface indicators).
Features:
Access Tile Surface Applied Domes are the industry leader in affordable detectable warning tiles used for any retrofit job. They are ideal for various applications, such as multimodal transit stations, curb ramps, accessible pedestrian crossings, parking areas, tops and bottoms of stair landings, escalator approaches, and many more to alert the public when they're about to reach an unsafe edge.
These Tactile attention domes are useful for people with visual impairments, as they can be felt through footwear. These attention domes are also designed with unique sound reflections for those with guidance canes. This helps them differentiate between Access Tile surface tiles and concrete, allowing for safe and detectable navigation of curb endings.
Features:
The Advantage One Stainless Steel Dome Tactile System is a special and useful tactile solution for increasing safety and accessibility. These individual attention domes feature a permanent slip-resistant texture integrated into the stainless steel. Advantage One Individual Attention Domes are drilled and fastened directly into the ground and are specifically designed for all interior accessibility solutions.
Features:
Eon Tile Rubber Attention Domes are durable and flexible tactile indicators ideal for designing and constructing high-quality commercial, institutional, and public spaces.
Eon Tile Attention Domes warn pedestrians, especially the visually impaired, about drop-off edges and areas without curbs or barriers to separate the pedestrian route from a vehicular traffic route.
Features:
Elan Tile Porcelain Tactile Indicator Attention Domes are designed for style, engineered for performance, and suitable for interior and exterior applications. Elan Tile offers highly durable and versatile walking surface indicators to alert pedestrians of potential hazards conditions ahead, indicating the end of a curb or an edge drop-off. Elan Tile Porcelain Attention Domes are fully compliant with the Canadian Accessibility code.
Features
The Armor-Tile surface applied tiles offer a cost-effective solution for retrofitting sidewalks. These tiles comply with Canadian accessibility codes, including AODA, CSA, ISO, and provincial and national building codes, specifically for Ontario's tactile walking surface indicators.
Features:
AccessTile Fire Resistant Tile with Attention Domes is an effective way to enhance accessibility and safety in high-risk areas. This Surface Applied fire-resistant tile, which meets the Ontario building code requirements, is their first composite tile. These fire resistant Access tile is mandatory in high rise buildings with more than 7 floors.
Access Tile FR is the cost-effective interior solution for applying TWSI tactile warning surface indicators on floors, specifically in exit stairwells, vestibules, lobbies, and corridors. These Surface Applied Fire-Resistant tiles comply with building specifications in Ontario.
Features:
29th May 2023
Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs), also referred to as detectable warning surfaces or tactile attention indicators, serve as standardized walking pathways that convey vital information to individuals with visual impairments through the use of distinctive textures and occasionally auditory cues.
These surfaces are typically constructed using inserts made of various materials such as metal, rubber, stone, or plastic, or they can be directly integrated into concrete ground surfaces. TWSIs are designed to offer a discernible texture underfoot, detectable by a long cane. Furthermore, their edges are intentionally angled or bevelled to minimize the risk of tripping.
• Attention TWSIs, also known as warning TWSIs, draw awareness to significant hazards such as the commencement of a staircase or the perimeter of a platform.
• Guidance TWSIs, alternatively called wayfinding TWSIs, provide directional information within open spaces, aiding individuals in navigating along designated paths.
TWSIs should exhibit a noticeable contrast in color compared to the surrounding walking surface. For attention TWSIs, the recommended color is safety yellow (Munsell Colour System: hue 5.0, chroma yellow 8.0/12). Another effective approach involves using a light hue on a dark ground surface or a dark hue on a light ground surface. To clearly distinguish warning information from guidance information, it is advised not to employ safety yellow for guidance TWSIs.
When TWSIs are installed as pre-fabricated panels or affixed onto existing ground or floor surfaces, the panels themselves should feature bevelled edges. The base surface of the TWSI panels should not exceed three millimeters above the existing surface. While surface-mounted installations are less than ideal, they may be considered only when alternatives such as cast-in-place or recessed installations are not feasible.
TWSIs should always be attached firmly to prevent edges from lifting.
Attention Tactile Warning and Safety Indicators (TWSIs) play a crucial role in conveying vital safety information to individuals present in potentially hazardous areas, especially those with visual impairments. Their primary purpose is to serve as markers for identifying potential dangers. It is imperative to maintain uniform safety messaging to ensure that individuals with visual impairments can readily identify precarious situations regardless of their location, be it a town or province.
TWSIs should comprise circular or flat-topped truncated domes or cones that are securely installed on pedestrian surfaces.
Attention TWSIs should have the following specifications:
The spacing between adjacent flat-topped domes or cones should be adjusted depending on their size. The larger the individual domes/cones, the more distant the space between them.
Attention TWSIs should be used at the following locations:
Attention TWSIs used on platforms, ferry docks and other drop-offs should be:
At stairs, attention TWSIs should commence one tread depth back from the leading edge of the nosing at the top step and extend across the width of the stairs. The attention TWSI alerts a person with vision loss that there is a set of stairs ahead and to seek the support of a handrail for safe navigation. The depth of the TWSIs used at the top of stairs should be 600 – 650 mm.
At railway crossings, attention TWSIs should be located so that the edges of TWSIs are 1,800 – 4,600 mm from the centre line of the nearest rail. Attention TWSIs should be installed in addition to any mechanical barriers that are activated with the arrival of trains.
Attention TWSIs should be provided across the entire width of a curb ramp or depressed curb (exclusive of flares). They should be set back 150 – 200 mm from the curb’s edge and extend 600 – 650 mm in the direction of travel.
Guidance TWSIs should consist of a pattern of parallel, flat-topped, elongated bars that extend in the direction of travel.
Guidance TWSIs are appropriate at the following locations:
Follow these specifications for guidance TWSIs:
An alternate type of guidance TWSI should be used on road surfaces to assist persons with vision loss to navigate complex road crossings including, but not limited to crossing at:
TWSIs used on road surfaces are clearly different and distinguishable from the guidance surfaces used in pedestrian areas. Guidance TWSIs on road surfaces at pedestrian crossings should:
19th May 2023
Have you ever lost your way or been disoriented in a public space? Well, a lot of people frequently go through this, especially those with visual impairments or cognitive disabilities. In these situations, tactile solutions for wayfinding can be incredibly helpful.
These tactile wayfinding solutions are designed to make it easier for people to navigate around public spaces. It also benefits organizations to stand out from competitors by making visitors' experiences more accessible. In this blog post, we'll explore the different types of tactile solutions for wayfinding:
Tactile solutions for wayfinding provide individuals with a physical path to follow, enabling them to navigate public spaces independently. It refers to the utilization of wayfinding bars in public spaces to help people with navigation.
Tactile solutions with wayfinding bars are employed in areas with no risk but still, a need to provide a safe path for the visually impaired. The code-compliant wayfinding bars are designed in different materials, colors, and sizes to ensure compliance in every situation, including indoors and outdoors, on newly constructed, retrofitted, and existing surfaces. They are available in a variety of colors and can be used in connection with attention domes.
There are several types of tactile solutions available for wayfinding, each with its own features. Some of the best types of tactile solutions for wayfinding include:
Advantage™ Replaceable Cast Iron Tactile Walking Surface Indicator (TWSI) plates are created in strict compliance with ASTM A-48, Class 35B Grey Cast Iron. ASTM, which stands for the American Society for Testing and Materials, is a group that publishes production and testing standards for a variety of industries. These standards cover numerous materials, products & systems to enable consistency and safety among manufacturers.
The Cast in Place System has exceptionally high strength and uses advanced metallurgical Engineering Science and Technology that satisfies and surpasses the highest municipal restrictions.
Lightweight and easy to install
Maintenance-free natural patina
It can be recycled after its lifecycle
10-year manufacturer's warranty
Tactile direction indicators should be installed in spacious and open floor areas to facilitate wayfinding by showing the primary route of travel.
Installation of directional indicators must follow CSA B651-18 4.3.5.4.3.
Eon Tile Rubber Wayfinding Bars are long-lasting and flexible tactile indicators, ideal for designers and contractors who create top-quality commercial, institutional, and public environments.
Eon Tile Wayfinding Bars act as path makers that help guide pedestrians, including those who are visually impaired, for safe guidance around various environments. These bars are designed to comply with all Canadian accessibility codes and are available in four different colors: ivory, vogue black, smoke grey, and yellow.
Created from premium long-lasting polymers
Appropriate for both initial installation and surface retrofit
UV resistant for color stability and ensures optimal visual surface contrast
Conforms to contrast requirements (based on adjacent surfaces)
5-year manufacturer’s warranty
The Advantage One Stainless Steel Wayfinding Individual Bars Tactile System has an integral texture built into the stainless steel that makes it slip-resistant and permanent.
The Individual Wayfinding Bars are proven to be more durable, exceeding any detectable warning product on the market, setting the leading industry standard for detectable warning products. The Advantage One Individual Wayfinding bars are installed by drilling and fastening them directly into the ground, creating a safe pathway and guidance system that is suitable for all indoor accessibility solutions.
5-year manufacturer’s warranty
Resistant to heavy traffic abuse and maintenance machinery
Optimum anti-slip design
Innovative adhesive capture design
316L, Marine grade stainless steel
Access Tile Wayfinding tiles, which combine innovative and creative design elements with tried-and-true engineered polymers, processing, and material technologies, are the ultimate wayfinding solution.
These tiles are the industry leader in terms of durability, weather, and wear resistance. They are available in surface-applied and replaceable cast-in-place options:
Access Tiles Surface Applied Directional Wayfinding bars are specially designed to be embedded into wet concrete to safely direct individuals between spaces and follow the desired path. These bars make it easier for visually impaired individuals to orient themselves and follow their intended route. Access Tile's detectable directional warning pad is a durable, lightweight, and cost-effective solution.
Features:
A cost-effective method of retrofitting existing public spaces
Lightweight and easy to handle
Access Tile's Surface Applied Directional Wayfinding bars are an innovative wayfinding solution designed to assist individuals with navigation between different areas. These bars can be placed onto the existing surfaces to provide clear and visible guidance, making it easier for people to find their way around. They are particularly beneficial for visually impaired individuals, enabling them to orient themselves and follow the desired path more efficiently.
Features:
5- years manufacturer warranty
Comes in six (6) standard colors to allow for mandatory contrast requirements
Elan Tile Porcelain Tactile Indicator Wayfinding Bars are not only aesthetically stylish but also engineered for high performance. These navigation bars are constructed from the best raw materials and adhere to Porcelain Stoneware standards, making them appropriate for use in both interior and exterior applications.
Elan Tile Wayfinding Bars provide durable and versatile walking surface Direction indicators, allowing visually impaired individuals to safely and successfully navigate their surroundings.
The Porcelain Wayfinding Bars are designed to assist pedestrians in finding their way to their intended destination while also promoting safety, convenience, and adherence to applicable codes and regulations. The bars serve as a guide, helping individuals navigate their way through an area, and ensure that they arrive at their desired location with ease.
Certified porcelain stoneware for maximum durability and surface hardness
Full-body porcelain that gives a highly compact surface with extremely low absorbency characteristics
Not affected by stains, water or chemicals
Versatile and easy installation for interior and exterior environments
Field tiles are available in different sizes
19th May 2023
Ecoglo photoluminescent safety way guidance systems are silent lifeguards in buildings that guide occupants to safety through the ingenious use of path marking signs, exit signage, step edge awareness, and handrail guidance. These markings create an illuminated escape route in low visibility conditions by outlining paths, noting any changes in direction or elevation, and highlighting obstacles.
When the lights go out, these markings come to life to shepherd all toward the exits. These safety way guidance systems comply with strict safety standards to ensure maximum visibility and clarity. The radiant markers lay dormant during regular use but spring into action in case of emergencies, making them the unseen saviors that guide your way in the dark.
Ecoglo photoluminescent products used in path marking systems are in accordance with the following Standards: UL 1994 Luminous Egress Path Marking Systems and CAN/ULC-S572 Photoluminescent and Self-Luminous Exit Signs and Path Marking Systems. Ecoglo path marking products should be installed as per the directions in this guide.
1. Surface Preparation
Thoroughly clean the surface with industrial strength cleaner if necessary.
Remove any loose paint or sealant, then allow the surface to dry.
2. Positioning of Signs
Mark the position on the door or wall where the sign is to be placed.
Note: Floor Identification signs – the mounting height must be in accordance with local and national codes.
3. Placement of Signs
Peel the protective layer from the back of the sign to expose the adhesive, ensuring nothing comes into contact with it.
Line the sign up with the markings you made.
Apply pressure evenly over the sign to fix it fast to the surface.
4. Maintenance of Signs
Regular dusting with a soft cloth or brush is recommended to keep the sign clean.
If the sign is noticeably dirty, clean it with a sponge or cloth.
1. Preparation of the surface
Thoroughly clean the surface with industrial strength cleaner if necessary.
Remove any loose paint or sealant and then allow the surface to dry.
If painted or coated, check that adhesive is compatible with the paint or seal coating.
2. Alignment of the Strips
Mark 50mm from the left edge of the top step.
Mark 50mm from the left edge of the bottom step.
Place a string line between the marks to ensure the strip on each step will be correctly aligned.
3. Preparation of the Strip
Clean the back of the contrast strip with a soft cloth, and if necessary, use methylated spirits (or similar solvent) to remove oil or grease
Allow to dry for approximately 1 minute.\
4. Applying the Adhesive
Apply a 3mm zigzag bead of polyurethane adhesive (such as Wurth KD Bond and Seal or Bostik Seal n Flex FC) to the back of the strip, 3mm in from the edges.
Continue along the length of the strip.
1. Placement of the Strip
Line up the strip with your alignment marks and position approximately 2-3mm back from the front straight edge of the step.
Place in position with the photoluminescent (light green) component of the strip to the leading edge of the step (see image below).
2. Apply Pressure to the Strip
Apply even pressure to spread the adhesive beneath the strip using a hand roller.
If necessary, stand on each strip to ensure good contact between the strip and the step.
3. Allow the Adhesive to Cure
Immediately following installation, close off the area for a period of 8 hours to avoid the Ecoglo strip being moved whilst the adhesive is in the early stages of “cure.”
Wait until the adhesive has fully cured (allow at least 24 hours) before trimming any excess from each strip with a sharp blade.
4. Use of Fixers
For outdoor timber installations, both adhesive and fixers should be used because installation onto outdoor timber surfaces varies due to the uneven nature of timber, the various types of timber (e.g. pine or kwila), the protective coating (e.g. paint or sealer) and seasonal temperature variances.
Step 1:
Apply adhesive as per steps 3-4, taking care to keep adhesive away from pre-drilled holes.
Place strip as per steps 5-6.
Leave the adhesive to cure for 7 days before installing the fixers.
Step 2:
Place a screw fixer into each hole and drill in securely using a battery drill.
Do not fully tighten the fixers to avoid compressing the adhesive.
For timber installations, the strips should be pre-drilled through the anti-slip material. The table below shows the number of drill holes required to allow for the natural contraction and expansion of timber.
1. Maintenance of Strips
Regular vacuuming or brushing with a stiff bristle head brush is recommended to keep strips clean.
If strips are noticeably dirty, clean them with a sponge or cloth.
Ecoglo guidance strips are tremendously versatile and can be applied on various types of surfaces, including walls, skirting boards, floors, door frames, flat-sided handrails, and steps*. Generally, as long as the substrate is clean, flat, and dry, the product can be successfully installed.
1. Preparation of Surface
Thoroughly clean the surface with an industrial-strength cleaner if necessary.
Remove any loose paint or sealant, and then allow the surface to dry.
If the surface has been painted or coated, check that adhesive is compatible with the paint or seal coating. IF IN DOUBT, REMOVE THE COATING.
The tape is suitable for a temperature range of 0-40C.
Maximum installation length is 1500mm.
2. Positioning, Alignment of the Strips
If installing on a flat handrail or other surface, such as a wall, mark the position where the strip is to be placed. Use a chalk line, plumb line, or spirit level if necessary to ensure the line is straight.
If installing on steps, mark 50mm from the left edge of the top step and 50mm from the left edge of the bottom step. Place a string line between the marks to ensure the strip on each step will be correctly aligned. This will give a straight, true line.
Offer up the strip to the surface it is to be attached to make sure both surfaces are parallel. If the strip does not sit perfectly flat against the surface without being held in place, carefully bend the strip until it sits perfectly flat against the surface.
3. Placement of Adhesive-backed Strip
Carefully peel off the release-tape backing from the strip.
Carefully line the strip up with any alignment marks.
Press the strip firmly in place to ensure even contact between the adhesive tape and the surface to which it is being applied.
4. Mechanical Fixers (Screws and Rivets)
For handrails in schools or other places where vandalism may occur, screws (for timber, as described above) or rivets (for metal) MUST be used. Install one screw/rivet 10-15mm in from each end of each strip.
For outdoor timber installations, screws MUST also be used so that the adhesive tape isn’t able to lift if the timber distorts or absorbs moisture due to normal weather conditions. 5mm pan head screws are suitable to be screwed down firmly but not so tight that the tape squashes under the strip. Install one screw 10-15mm in from each end and one screw in the middle of each strip.
If in doubt about the adhesion of the strips to any substrate, use screws/rivets for additional security. Install one 10-15mm in from each end and one in the middle of each strip.
5. Maintenance of Strips
Regular vacuuming or brushing with a stiff bristle head brush is recommended to keep the strips clean.
If strips are noticeably dirty, clean them with a sponge or cloth.
Regular cleaning to remove built-up dirt and objects on the strips will ensure Ecoglo will continue performing to expectation. Note that the photoluminescence will continue performing even after UV exposure or exposure to moisture. The only reason for the degradation in the performance of the photoluminescence is a lack of correct cleaning.
1. Vacuuming or brushing with a stiff bristle head (wet or dry) is often enough to keep the strips clean. The glowing strip can also be wiped clean with a wet or dry sponge or cloth. Observation will determine if cleaning is required; however, a regular cleaning every 4 to 6 weeks or after particularly heavy use should ensure correct performance.
2. High-pressure water (but not steam cleaning) can also be used to clean the strips.
3. Do not use highly alkaline or acidic cleaning agents. The pH of the cleaning agents should be between pH 5 and pH 12. If cleaning agents are applied at more than pH 10, the strips should be rinsed with pH neutral (pH 6 to pH 8) solution afterward.
Providing a safe environment for people in your building is not just a requirement; it is your responsibility. Ecoglo's breakthrough photoluminescent "Safety Way Guidance Systems" are the smart, stylish, and sustainable solution to meet safety compliance needs.
These innovative systems expertly guide people to safety in emergencies and power outages. The Path marking signs, exit signage, step edge awareness, and/or handrail guidance glow in the dark for hours, clearly marking exit routes and stairs even when the lights are out.
Don't risk non-compliance fees or harm to your occupants. Tactile Solutions Canada with Ecoglo delivers an affordable life safety and guidance solution. We make it easy to do the right thing - contact us today to experience the difference in your building. When emergencies strike, Ecoglo glows. Your path to safety starts here.
19th May 2023
Tactile solutions refer to textured surfaces applied on floors, walls, stairs, and other areas that provide sensory cues for navigation and hazard warnings. Traditionally, tactile solutions have been used in public buildings to assist visually impaired individuals in accessing facilities and amenities in a safe manner. However, innovative designers and contractors have started leveraging tactile solutions in new and unique ways that enhance experiences for all.
In this blog, we explore five innovative uses of tactile solutions that go beyond standard applications. These creative adaptations demonstrate how tactile solutions can be used to make spaces interactive, immersive, and accessible to people of all abilities.
Museums are increasingly using interactive exhibits to provide engaging learning experiences for visitors. Tactile solutions can be integrated into these exhibits to make them accessible and inclusive for visually impaired patrons as well. For example, a science museum may have an interactive display demonstrating the water cycle. By affixing tactile maps, diagrams, and Braille labels on the exhibit, it allows visually impaired children to actively participate by feeling the different textures and reading the Braille to understand the water cycle.
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg implemented innovative tactile solutions in their exhibits. Braille and tactile maps were used throughout to provide navigation assistance. Interactive displays also incorporated tactile components, such as a large tactile model of the Canadian landscape. By applying creative tactile adaptations, museums can immerse all visitors in interactive learning, regardless of ability.
Amusement parks are increasingly making rides and attractions accessible to visitors with disabilities. Tactile solutions can be integrated into rides and interactive experiences in creative ways to make them inclusive for the visually impaired. For example, a rollercoaster may have Braille and tactile signage along its path to describe the twists, turns, and drops in the ride. An arcade or carnival game can have tactile targets, obstacles, and maps incorporated so visually impaired players can fully participate.
Some theme parks have introduced innovative ride designs specifically aimed at providing thrilling, immersive experiences for the visually impaired. One example is the Sea Dragon pirate ship ride at Adventure Park USA in Maryland, which was designed to activate senses other than sight, including touch and hearing. The ride incorporates tactile rails, interactive elements like ropes, chains and cannons, as well as audio effects, scents, and vibrations that allow visually impaired riders to experience the thrill of the pirate adventure.
By building tactile interactions and sensory immersion into attractions, amusement parks can create accessible and inclusive experiences that all visitors will enjoy and remember. The creative use of tactile solutions in these recreational settings demonstrates their potential to enhance engagement and quality of life for people of all abilities.
Forward-thinking architects have begun using tactile solutions in innovative ways to make spaces interactive and accentuate designs. For example, a public building may have an artistic, tactile installation in its lobby to provide an engaging sensory experience for visitors. An office tower, like CIBC Square, could use tactile pavers, railings, or walls in a creatively patterned manner to achieve a modern textured aesthetic.
Some architects are also pioneering the use of responsive tactile surfaces that actively change textures and patterns. These dynamic surfaces can transform spaces by altering ambient lighting, temperature, acoustics, and more in response to environmental conditions or user inputs. Such responsive tactile designs can create living, interactive spaces that all individuals can appreciate and intuitively navigate.
The innovative use of tactile solutions in architecture and design enhances accessibility while also pushing creative boundaries. By thoughtfully incorporating tactile elements into spaces, architects can make built environments immersive, artistic, and inclusive for people of all abilities.
Public art installations are an ideal medium for employing tactile solutions in creative ways. Many cities have interactive art fixtures that incorporate tactile components to engage citizens of all abilities. For example, a sculpture garden may have textured art pieces with Braille descriptions, allowing visually impaired visitors to appreciate the works through touch. A waterfront boardwalk could feature an art installation with tactile paths, textures, and interactive elements built in.
Some public art specifically focuses on the creation of immersive sensory experiences. These interactive artworks are designed to be appreciated through touch, hearing, and other senses in addition to sight. For example, Singapore’s Sensory Sculpture Garden has installations with textured walls, tactile models, and audio components. The artworks are meant to be experienced both visually and through touch, providing an inclusive creative space for all visitors.
Interactive public art that leverages tactile solutions in innovative ways can transform a city into an accessible open-air gallery for everyone. By giving the visually impaired opportunities to experience art through the senses beyond sight, these installations demonstrate how creative uses of tactile design promote inclusion and enhance engagement with built environments. In a nutshell, public art that thoughtfully incorporates tactile interactions serves as an inspiration for future accessible and multi-sensory design.
In summary, we have explored several highly innovative uses of tactile solutions in diverse settings, from museums and amusement parks to architectural installations and public art. By creatively employing tactile design, these spaces have been made immersive, interactive, and inclusive for people of all abilities. The examples discussed demonstrate how tactile solutions can be used in new and unique ways to transform experiences when implemented with imagination and accessibility in mind.
15th May 2023
Before we continue ahead to discuss the accessibility standards, it is important to understand the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. So, let’s get started!
AODA, or Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, establishes the process for developing and applying accessibility standards. The standards are developed in collaboration with people with disabilities and industry groups, as well as the government.
The government is responsible for developing accessibility criteria that organizations must meet under the AODA. Implementing and enforcing these standards will enable us to collaborate in making Ontario more accessible and inclusive by 2025.
Accessibility standards are rules that must be followed by the government, corporations, non-profits, and public sector organizations in order to become more accessible for the common public, especially for the visually impaired.
They assist organizations in identifying and removing barriers in five areas of daily life to increase accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Such standards act as the foundation stone for ensuring the accessibility of all in the public spaces.
The AODA’s design of public spaces standard specifies that newly created or redeveloped public places must be accessible to people with disabilities. The Design of Public Places Standard outlines methods for making common places more accessible. For example, there are accessibility requirements for:
Recreational trails and beach access routes
Public eating areas like rest stops or picnic areas
Outdoor play spaces, like playgrounds in provincial parks and local communities
Accessible parking (on and off the street)
Office building lobbies
Indoor stairs and ramps
Cafeteria and lounge space
Indoor public spaces of apartment buildings
Outdoor paths of travel, like sidewalks, ramps, stairs, curb ramps, rest areas and accessible pedestrian signals
Indoor play spaces and corridors
Ontario Building Code includes the accessibility rules for the indoor space, whereas the Design of Public Spaces Standard constitutes the guidelines for service-oriented elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines, and waiting areas with fixed seating.
The Design of Public Spaces Standard is applicable to -
New spaces and buildings
Existing spaces undergoing renovations
Public sector organizations
Private organizations with fifty or more workers
Private organizations with fewer than fifty employees are simply obligated to follow rules for accessible facilities -
Recreational trails and beach access routes
Accessible parking
Service-related elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines, and waiting areas
Maintenance and restoration of public spaces
The Ontario Building Code sets the accessibility criteria for most new construction and major building renovations. These contain the following requirements:
Barrier-free access paths of travel
Fire safety devices
Public washrooms
Access to pools and saunas
Seating in public spaces
The criteria apply to the majority of new construction and large renovations in Ontario, and they function in tandem with the Design of Public Spaces standard. Existing structures are unaffected unless major renovations are planned. Smoke alarm regulations apply to dwellings, including semi-detached houses, townhouses, and duplexes, but not to the majority of other accessibility standards.
Outdoor paths of travel, like sidewalks, ramps, stairs, curb ramps, rest areas and accessible pedestrian signals
Indoor play spaces and corridors
Ontario Building Code includes the accessibility rules for the indoor space, whereas the Design of Public Spaces Standard constitutes the guidelines for service-oriented elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines, and waiting areas with fixed seating.
The Design of Public Spaces Standard is applicable to -
New spaces and buildings
Existing spaces undergoing renovations
Public sector organizations
Private organizations with fifty or more workers
Private organizations with fewer than fifty employees are simply obligated to follow rules for accessible facilities -
Recreational trails and beach access routes
Accessible parking
Service-related elements like service counters, fixed queuing lines, and waiting areas
Maintenance and restoration of public spaces
The Ontario Building Code sets the accessibility criteria for most new construction and major building renovations. These contain the following requirements:
Barrier-free access paths of travel
Fire safety devices
Public washrooms
Access to pools and saunas
Seating in public spaces
The criteria apply to the majority of new construction and large renovations in Ontario, and they function in tandem with the Design of Public Spaces standard. Existing structures are unaffected unless major renovations are planned. Smoke alarm regulations apply to dwellings, including semi-detached houses, townhouses, and duplexes, but not to the majority of other accessibility standards.
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9th May 2023
Photoluminescent exit signs are popular for contractors, business owners, and building managers looking for an eco-friendly, code-compliant, and cost-effective way to mark emergency exits. Unlike traditional electric exit signs that require wiring and ongoing energy usage, photoluminescent signs absorb and store ambient light, emitting a glow in low or no light conditions to illuminate exit routes.
As per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Tactile Act in Canada, and Section 1024 of the International Building and Fire Codes, properly marked emergency exits are legally required in all public buildings to ensure the safety of all occupants. For business owners, photoluminescent exit signs offer an affordable solution that aligns with environmentally-conscious values. They contain non-toxic, rechargeable photoluminescent panels that charge themselves using existing light fixtures, eliminating the need for hardwiring or electricity.
Photoluminescent exit signs work by absorbing and storing ambient light energy, which is emitted as a bright glow in low or no light conditions. They contain special non-toxic photoluminescent materials, typically zinc sulfide or strontium aluminate, that get charged through exposure to natural or artificial light sources.
Once charged, these materials emit the stored energy as a bright glow for extended dark periods. The illumination duration depends on the charging period, with longer exposure to light resulting in a glow lasting up to 7 hours on a single charge. The light emitted is a bright green that meets or exceeds requirements for emergency exit visibility, ensuring the signs can be seen even at a distance in smoky, chaotic conditions.
One of the biggest benefits of photoluminescent exit signs is their energy efficiency. By tapping into ambient light, they consume no electricity, saving business owners money on energy costs and reducing environmental impact. The signs only require surrounding ambient room lighting to charge, using energy that would otherwise be wasted, and they remain effective for up to 15 years without needing replacement.
Highly Durable
Photoluminescent exit signs are also highly durable, withstanding various environmental conditions. The photoluminescent material is non-toxic, moisture-resistant, and non-flammable. It will continue operating in very hot or wet environments, including outdoor areas exposed to the weather. The signs glow in complete darkness for up to eight hours after a charge, marking exits around the clock.
An additional benefit is that photoluminescent exit signs eliminate the risk of failure during power outages. As they require no hardwiring or electricity, the signs remain fully illuminated even when the main power is disrupted. This ensures all occupants can easily spot exit routes to evacuate the building in an emergency.
Compliance with fire safety regulations and building codes incentivizes businesses to invest in photoluminescent exit signs. They meet the same strict standards as electric exit signs to properly guide occupants to safety in accordance with laws like the Ontario Fire Code. The bright green glow is also highly visible, capturing attention even at a distance in smoky, chaotic conditions. Did you know that according to Section 1024 of the International Building and Fire codes, all buildings are required to have luminous egress path markings installed? This includes the installation of photoluminescent exit signs, which are a great way to ensure that everyone can safely exit a building in case of an emergency.
To meet code compliance, all exit signs must be UL 924 certified, and this means that they have been rigorously tested and are guaranteed to perform when you need them most. So, whether you're a building owner, manager, or just a concerned citizen, it's important to make sure that your building is equipped with the right emergency lighting to keep everyone safe.
Whether battery-powered or hardwired, traditional exit signs provide illumination using a power source that requires ongoing maintenance and costs. The signs rely entirely on their power supply, consuming energy 24 hours daily to stay lit. Batteries must be regularly replaced, often within just 1-2 years, and hardwiring requires professional installation with associated labor fees. Energy usage continues even when exits are not in use, increasing utility costs over the signs' lifetime.
In contrast, photoluminescent exit signs are self-sustaining, absorbing, and re-emitting ambient light to provide bright illumination without any internal power source. They use special non-toxic, rechargeable materials that tap into existing overhead lighting and natural light from windows or skylights to charge. Once charged, they emit a glow for up to 7 hours, even in complete darkness. They require no wiring, batteries, or ongoing maintenance, saving time, money, and the environment.
Photoluminescent exit signs are also highly durable, withstanding heat, humidity, and other extreme conditions for up to 15 years without deterioration. Their non-toxic materials pose no health hazards and continue operating in wet or corrosive environments. Traditional signs, in comparison, often fail prematurely due to battery drain or electrical faults, requiring frequent replacement of components.
During an emergency like a fire or power outage, the reliability and performance of exit signs are critical. Photoluminescent signs provide continuous visibility even when main power is disrupted since they require no external power source. On the other hand, traditional signs may cease working in the event of a power failure, blackout, or distribution issue, putting occupants at risk in an already dangerous situation.
The choice is clear for business owners & contractors prioritizing reduced costs, improved sustainability, and enhanced emergency preparedness. Photoluminescent exit signs are a visibly better solution.
9th May 2023
Though we believe that our audience is well-aware and knowledgeable, it is important to understand what being photoluminescent is to ensure that exact information is delivered. Any photoluminescent object emits light after absorbing photons (carries energy), and such an object does not require additional energy like electricity to light up.
The one differentiating factor distinguishing photoluminescent tactile solutions from others is the ability to ‘glow in the dark.’ During an emergency or unavailability of electricity, photoluminescent tactile solutions provide the safest pathway and reduce the risk of slips and trips.
In this article, we will discover how photoluminescent surface-applied anti-slip contrast strips help reduce slipping or tripping accidents.
Photoluminescent Contrast Strips improve egress speed and visibility in all lighting conditions. In all conditions, Photoluminescent Contrast Strips provide life-saving egress lighting. These strips ensure your building fulfils the code compliance without bothering the design.
The strips are charged by natural and artificial light & glow for hours after a power failure. The best is that these Photoluminescent Contrast Strips are easy to apply and install; all you need is a premium polyurethane adhesive.
Note - The photoluminescent contrast strips can be installed with mechanical fasteners but do not use them while installing outdoors.
When it comes to durability, Ecoglo’s Photoluminescent Contrast Strips have no match—manufactured using Ecoglo’s patented process, which produces the most robust and highly efficient photoluminescent product available. The photoluminescent strips’ distinct ridges prevent them from most abrasive damage and provide slide resistance while making the product easy to clean.
The hard-wearing silicon carbide non-slip material is integrally bonded with the aluminum substrate. Thousands of people can walk on it without incurring wear and tear. The contrast strips' durability and strength ensure they can bear heavy loads, eventually reducing the chances of accidents.
Annually, there is an average of 12,000 deaths by stairway accidents. The statistics itself is the statement why keeping secure surroundings around staircases is essential. Considering the same, photoluminescent contrast strips appear as the reliable solution.
The colour contrasting the non-slip material with advanced photoluminescent technology provides step-edge visibility under all light conditions. The unique ridges in the Ecoglo photoluminescent strips and the integrated anti-slip contrast strips ensure all-weather slip resistance.
3rd May 2023
CIBC Square is a stunning office complex with two office towers spanning over 3 million square feet. Undoubtedly, CIBC Square is setting the new standard for community in terms of innovation, transformation and accessibility. A perfect workspace, place to socialize and celebrate cuisine and culture, CIBC Square connects the Waterfront and Financial District, expanding and glorifying this stretch of Toronto.
CIBC SQUARE, a location for business, pleasure, and community, offers an unmatched experience in the heart of Toronto. This modern-marvel provides exceptional work environment equipped with modern-thinking features.
It is really important to be empathetic towards your target audience to find the reliable solutions. The same goes with businesses and CIBC Square understands this in all sense.
“Listening exercises have focused on barriers created by remote and hybrid work, as well as concerns and considerations for return to work. Topics that are brought up during the listening exercises are leveraged to enhance our human capital strategy.”
The above statement is made by Claudette Knight, vice-president of workplace design and transformation at CIBC. Let’s go a little deeper.
CIBC hosts annual listening sessions to understand the constraints and barriers disable people face every day at the building premises.
An inclusive design strategy was created and applied to the whole CIBC campus, including-
The design strategy fulfills the building code and industry standards for well-being, accessibility and inclusion by incorporating built-environment design principles that state the complete range of human diversity.
CIBC also incorporated accessibility elements across the structure that meets legislative requirements. Elevator destination dispatch with audio and visual indicators; accessible, all-gender washrooms on every floor; a relief area for service animals; and code-compliant tactile solutions on cautionary places and Braille signage for improved way-finding are among the features of the accessible CIBC campus.
All the new branches are built considering the accessibility needs of clients. CIBC, at a minimum, follows industry standards for all new branches, including the Barrier Free Design Standards and the Barrier Free Design for Automated Banking Machines that were established by Canadian Standards Association International.
One of our brands, a reliable tactile solutions provider, Kinesik has a major role in making CIBC Square the most accessible public and commercial space. We leverage the power of intelligent design and precision engineering. Our products enhance the quality of CIBC Square’s infrastructure and ensure safe passage and code-compliant exit signs.
Let’s see which products from the Kinesik’s arsenal made CIBC Square accessible.
Ensuring the safety of the building’s occupants is a top priority, and floor-level exit signs play a critical role in achieving this goal. The photoluminescent egress path marking system includes floor identification signs (FID) that enhance egress speeds and provide essential information for egress safety in CIBC Square.
Photoluminescent handrail markings have been expertly engineered, and rigorously tested, to enhance both the ease and speed of egress for stairs with railings. Our handrail strips are versatile enough to fit in any space without distracting from the design of the CIBC Square building while providing an excellent handrail marking solution for CIBC’s infrastructure.
They were proven to be highly resistant to UV/weathering, which helped reduce the building’s depreciation.
With unique ridges and integrated anti-slip contrast strips, these nosings ensure all-weather slip resistance making CIBC Square’s premises much more secure. Thanks to its leading-edge technology, it is a pioneer in the emerging supplemental (or passive) emergency lighting market.
3rd May 2023
Consider this fact - In the first 20 days of 2023, over 88 pedestrians were hit. Isn't this alarming? It gets a lot tougher for visually challenged people to avoid any kind of accident.
In order to avoid the risks and minimize fatal accidents, it is important that contractors, city planners, and property owners must do their bit to promote and maintain pedestrian safety.
But the question is, how can one really achieve the maximum safety level? Well, this blog covers the answer to the same question. Let's explore!
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 states that applying detectable warning surfaces in public spaces is compulsory for accessibility solutions provider. But what are these detectable warning surfaces?
If you walk or take public transport to work, you've certainly noticed those raised truncated domes placed on the ground at intersections, rail platforms, and even closer to the bus stops. These tiles equipped with raised circles are known as detectable warning surfaces, and they inform persons who are completely blind or have low vision of this shift so they can be prepared in advance before passing a busy intersection.
These curtailed dome tiles are installed to help visually impaired people to navigate and locate public spaces securely and confidently. The story doesn't end here; the detectable warning surfaces provide much more benefits to pedestrians.
Detectable warning surfaces are devised and installed to provide non-visual notice of impending hazards. Cast-in-place tiles are most typically observed at crossings for pedestrians, where they inform visually impaired individuals of the commencement onto a vehicle roadway. In a similar way, detectable warning surfaces erected on transit platforms warn pedestrians of the inclined drop into the tracks.
The detectable warning surfaces are erected at strategic spots in public spaces to draw pedestrians' attention, cautioning them to halt, analyze their environment, and move accordingly. The application of detecting warning surfaces is limited to the exterior use, these are used for internal use at escalator approaches, pedestrian crossings & top of stair landings/wheelchair ramps.
Truncated domes give a tactile warning while providing a non-slip grip on the surface of detectable warning surfaces. In all weather conditions, the crucial microtexture on detectable warning surfaces adds another layer of pedestrian safety. The non-slip surface is specifically useful in sloped places like curbs and wheelchair ramps, allowing people to gain friction.
Our surroundings typically fade away when we focus on what is in front of our eyeline. However, detectable warning surfaces draw our attention due to the clearly-visible different surfaces felt underfoot. This becomes extremely crucial for visually challenged people as they must be extra cautious of their surroundings.
The visible shift in surface causes pedestrians to pause, analyze, and take in the surroundings before continuing. Such a call to attention is especially useful in stairwells, escalators, pedestrian crossings, and transportation platforms.
It can be challenging to maneuver largely open spaces, such as concourse halls or hotel lobbies for people of all abilities, but especially for those with vision impairment. ISO Wayfinding bars tiles, which are frequently used in conjunction with truncated dome tiles, provide a tactile track that the visually handicapped may readily discover and follow.
Not only do detectable warning surfaces help the visually handicapped navigate a big open space, but they can also help individuals who do not have visual impairments. In an unfamiliar and difficult-to-navigate situation, the well-defined pathway can assist in guiding pedestrians to the main information desk or destination.
Pedestrian safety is an important factor to consider while designing public or commercial spaces. While the lawful act of ADA requires the space to be completely safe for pedestrians, especially for visually challenged people, it becomes the unsaid responsibility of the contractors to ensure that the building designed under their scope and guidance should be 100% safe and secure.