In stairs, ramps, or elevators, different types of signs are installed to indicate levels or directions, aimed at improving the autonomy and safety of visually impaired individuals in public spaces.
One of the tools used for this purpose is tactile paving, which offers several benefits. These tiles are highly resistant to pedestrian traffic and do not require complicated maintenance. Additionally, their non-slip design makes them safe, and their easy recognition makes them useful for individuals with reduced visual capacity.
Another important adaptation is Braille maps, which are urban plans with reliefs and Braille texts available in public places such as train stations or parks. Tactile traffic lights are also a useful tool as they include tactile plates that indicate directions and other instructions.
Among auditory signals, we can find sound traffic lights that emit intermittent sounds to indicate when to cross safely. Furthermore, there are voice systems in public transport that announce stops, routes, and destinations on buses or trains, as well as alarms and bells at stations or crossings that indicate risk areas.
Other adaptations include color codes in reliefs and the presence of edges and handrails with Braille labels. In public spaces, it is essential to promote respect and inclusion for all individuals, which is why implementing these adaptations is crucial to ensure accessibility and safety for people with visual disabilities.
In terms of pedestrian signaling, tactile paving stands out as an important signal present in squares, parks, sidewalks, and street crossings, facilitating the orientation of visually impaired individuals. These signals, designed to be perceived through touch or sound, are fundamental to ensuring adequate mobility and independence for this segment of the population.
