Indoor pedometer strips: what do I need to know?
A podotactile strip is a floor covering designed to warn blind and partially-sighted people of imminent danger. They must be installed in all public-access buildings, and are subject to strict regulations. What do I need to know about installing a pedometer strip indoors? Which product to choose?
Where should a paving strip be installed inside an ERP?
The podotactile tile warns a blind or partially-sighted person of an approaching obstacle. It is made up of small, raised spikes that can be detected by foot or cane. Mandatory inside ERP buildings, it must be positioned :
- downstream of moving walkways, staircases or mechanical inclined surfaces (for new ERP only);
- at the top and bottom of flights of stairs with 3 or more steps. Intermediate landings (not half landings) are included.
Good to know: it'snot compulsory to install a podotactile tile on isolated steps. On the other hand, it is strongly recommended to establish a visual contrast.
What are the conditions for installing a pedometer strip indoors?
The installation of a podotactile tile inside an ERP is subject to a number of rules, including the following:
- A braking pitch
Before installation, make sure to maintain a braking distance of 50 cm between the staircase and the pedomark. This distance must allow the visually impaired person time to stop. Exceptions to this rule are possible on one condition: "the configuration or dimensions of the staircase do not allow effective installation of the device at 0.50 m".
- Placement
The podotactile strip must be placed parallel to the first and last step of the staircase.
- Its appearance
To warn the visually impaired, the tile must contrast visually with the ground.
- Size
The standard width is 58.75 cm, including lines of 8 studs in the depth direction. However, in an ERP environment, a reduced width may be tolerated. It is 40 cm, with lines of 5 or 6 studs arranged in a staggered pattern.
Ø See also: Staircase accessibility: rules to avoid falls
Which podotactile tile to choose for ERP interiors?
The choice of material for a paving strip depends on where it will be installed. For a podotactile tile placed inside an ERP, you can opt for :
- rubber : a cost-effective, durable solution that's easy to fix to the floor;
- metal: appreciated for its aesthetic appeal, it blends easily into any environment;
- polyurethane : chosen for its practicality, as it can be laid directly on a smooth floor .
Need to install indoor pedometer strips? NEOSOL is here to help you find the right product for your needs, and to advise you on how to install it successfully. See also our projects.
Ø See also: Pedometer tiles: the guide to choosing the right product
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