Fire stairwells are essential safety features in any building, offering a secure escape route during emergencies such as fires, earthquakes, or power outages. However, these areas can become dangerous if not properly equipped with safety features, especially for people with visual impairments. This is where tactile indicators play a vital role.
What Are Tactile Indicators?
Tactile indicators are specially designed ground surface markers that provide guidance or warning to pedestrians through texture underfoot. They are commonly used in public spaces, transport stations, pedestrian crossings, and now increasingly within building infrastructure like fire stairwells. Tactile indicators are available in various forms, including tactile studs and tactile strips, made from durable materials like stainless steel, brass, or polyurethane.
Why Fire Stairwells Need Tactile Indicators
Fire stairwells are typically used during emergencies when visibility might be low due to smoke or power failure. For individuals with visual impairments, or even for those disoriented in a high-stress situation, the lack of directional guidance or warning signals in stairwells can lead to slips, falls, or confusion, potentially causing injury or slowing down evacuation.
Tactile ground surface indicators (TGSI) installed at key points in stairwells help prevent these issues by offering non-visual cues that alert users to steps, landings, changes in direction, and exit doors.
Key Benefits of Tactile Indicators in Fire Stairwells
1. Improved Safety for All Users
By providing underfoot feedback, tactile indicators warn users of approaching hazards such as stair edges, doorways, or level changes. This helps prevent trips and falls, especially in emergency conditions where lighting may fail.
2. Accessibility Compliance
Most countries have building regulations or accessibility standards that require tactile indicators in certain locations. For instance:
- The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) in the U.S.
- AS 1428.4.1 in Australia
- BS 8300 in the UK
Installing tactile indicators in fire stairwells ensures compliance with global accessibility codes, making your building inclusive and legally safe.
3. Guidance During Emergencies
Tactile wayfinding indicators can guide occupants toward emergency exits when visibility is compromised. For people with low vision or in dense smoke, these indicators act like a tactile map, helping them navigate out safely.
4. Durable and Low Maintenance
Modern tactile tiles and studs used in stairwells are built to withstand high foot traffic and are resistant to wear and tear. This makes them a cost-effective safety solution that doesn’t require frequent maintenance.
Where to Install Tactile Indicators in Stairwells
To maximize effectiveness, tactile indicators should be placed at:
- The top and bottom of staircases
- Landing areas where stair direction changes
- In front of exit doors or fire doors
- Areas with sharp turns or confusing layouts
Material Choices: Which Tactile Indicators Are Best?
When selecting tactile indicators for fire stairwells, consider the following materials:
- Stainless Steel Tactile Indicators – Highly durable and ideal for indoor environments with high usage.
- Polyurethane (PU) Tactile Tiles – Offer excellent slip resistance and are easy to install on concrete or tiled surfaces.
- Brass Tactile Studs – Provide a premium look for commercial or luxury properties while maintaining functionality.
Final Thoughts: Small Details, Big Impact
Accidents in fire stairwells can be devastating, but with thoughtful planning and the use of tactile indicators, these spaces can become much safer. Whether you’re a facility manager, architect, or building owner, implementing tactile ground surface indicators in your emergency exits isn’t just about compliance — it’s about saving lives and creating an inclusive environment for all.
