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Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI)
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This is an example of warning Tactile Ground Surface Indicators. The individual dots provide a warning that there is a hazard ahead. This is an example of warning Tactile Ground Surface Indicators. The individual dots provide a warning that there is a hazard ahead.

This is an example of TGSI having both luminance and textural contrasts. This is an example of directional Tactile Ground Surface Indicators. The individual stripes provide assistance with direction.

What are Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI)?

Tactile ground surface indicators (TGSI) are raised domes and stripes placed in patterns on the ground to provide tactile information. Their colour and luminance contrast provides information to people with vision impairment about hazards and directions.

Two types of TGSI are currently used in Australia, under Australian Standard 1428.4.

  1. Warning Tiles: These indicate hazards such as platform edges, stairs and overhead obstacles. They also inform people about changes in the direction of path of travel.
  2. Directional Tiles: These assist people to negotiate difficult environments such as wide open spaces or busy, dynamic spaces or to locate specific objectives such as the entrance and exit of train stations.

Why and how are TGSI used?

TGSI may provide useful clues to people with vision impairment. The consistent use and placement of TGSI is a key consideration during installation, however TGSI should not be overused.

TGSI are required when there are insufficient alternative or ‘natural’ tactile clues to warn of a hazard or change of direction.

 For more information, refer to Australian Standard 1428.4.

TGSI Installation and Construction

Australian Standards cover the construction and installation of TGSI

Tactile ground surface indicators can be installed as:

  1. Integrated units: Tile-like units, where the background and raised domes are made of the same material.
  2. Discrete units: Separate domes installed to provide the effect of a tile on an existing surface. The raised domes are inserted into the background surface.

There are specific requirements for TGSI covering:

  • Contrast
  • Hardness
  • Dome height and spacing
  • Surfaces - TGSI should be made of slip-resistant materials.

It is important to remember that TGSI should not be over used, and that where there are other clues, TGSI may not be required.