Equal Access tactile ground surface indicators

Eye Health In Australia
As in other developed countries, the most prevalent causes of blindness and vision loss in Australia are those related to ageing. Eye health in Australia, the background paper to the National framework for action to promote eye health and prevent avoidable blindness and vision loss (the National eye health framework), reported that age-related macular degeneration, cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, uncorrected or under-corrected refractive error, eye trauma and trachoma are the most prevalent causes of blindness and vision loss in Australia.

What is Luminance Contrast?
The amount of light reflected from one surface or component, compared to the amount of light reflected from the background or surrounding surfaces.

Why do we need it?
The majority of people who are blind or vision impaired have some vision. The provision of sufficient luminance-contrast in the design of signage and the choice of TGSI's will enhance access to information for people with vision impairment and for all pedestrians.

The use of luminance-contrasting strips on the nosing of stairs has been proven to improve safety for people who are vision impaired, as well as for all pedestrians.

Recommendations
My recommendation regarding colour selection is to NEVER use white TGSI's on any concrete natural concrete surface. Even new TGSI's installed on old concrete rarely meet the luminance contrast. Once TGSI's become soiled will road grime over time this contrast is greatly reduced.

Maintenance
Regular inspections should be implemented particularly by Authorities. We see on a regular basis TGSI's that have failed, been damage or have been soiled by road grime. Failing to maintain TGSI's could potentially be seen as negligence should any legal proceedings be taken should injury be caused. It is not good enough to set and forget.