Podotactile tiles: the guide to choosing the right tiles

Choosing the right podotactile tiles

We see them everywhere, on the edges of crosswalks, on the first and last steps of staircases, and on streetcar and train platforms. Podotactile tiles are equipment that ensures the safety and accessibility of passers-by, and more specifically the visually impaired. To install this type of flooring, it's important to know its specific features and the regulations in force. NeoSol, as a specialist in these systems, provides you with the information you need to know.

What is a podotactile tile?

Also known as a "bande d'éveil de vigilance", a podotactile tile is a safety device used mainly to signal danger. It can be used to warn of an obstacle, an exit zone, the edge of a platform, staircase or sidewalk, or a crosswalk. Podotactile tiles are very useful for the visually impaired or blind, as they enable them to detect by the touch of their feet that they are about to cross an obstacle.

The podotactile tile is made up of raised pimples that are easily detectable by touch. There are several types of paving slabs, depending on their criteria. That's why, before choosing the one best suited to your situation, it's essential to take into account the legal standards governing the installation of this device.

What do the regulations say about podotactile tiles?

It's a legal obligation to make public buildings and facilities accessible to all.AFNOR, which defines and dictates the standards to be complied with, provides a framework for the installation of pedomark tiles with 2 standards:

- NF PR98-351

- NF P98-351

The French standard NF PR98-351 specifies that paving slabs must be installed in very specific places, such as railroad platforms or the top of a flight of stairs.

As for the standard, NF P98-351 highlights the characteristics of a paving slab. Depending on the location, the width of the slab must be between 40 and 58.75 cm. The slab must be non-slip, stable and resistant to moisture and wear. It must also be positioned 50 cm from the danger zone.

3 criteria for the right choice

In addition to taking into account the standards for podotactile floor tiles, there are 3 other criteria to consider:

1. The number of studs: Each tile has a number of raised studs. The standard states that each tile must have 8 studs in the depth direction.

2. Arrangement of studs: each stud should be 75 mm apart and staggered.

3. Material: Make sure you choose the right material for the slab, as some materials are sensitive to humidity and rust more easily.

Installing paving slabs: instructions for use!

Whether indoors or outdoors, podotactile tiles are easy to install. They feature a canvas-printed inner face for easy gluing. They are designed to adapt to all types of flooring. However, there are a few rules to be observed when installing it.

Firstly, it's important to respect the 50 cm distance between the podotactile strip and the obstacle. This distance will give the person time to stop and prepare to cross the obstacle safely and calmly.

Next, the strip must be parallel to the kerb: crosswalk, platform, staircase, etc.

Also, as the standard indicates, the strip must be 58.75 cm wide. This dimension is regulated to enable the individual passing over the strip to be aware of the signal. There is, however, an exception for public transport platforms, where the required width is 40 cm.

Finally, if you have several tiles, make sure they are arranged asymmetrically, so that there is no gap between the studs. The floor must not be the same color as the tile, so it's essential that it be contrasting. Neosol also offers other accessibility and safety equipment for people with reduced mobility, as well as a wide range of professional mats for all sectors of activity.

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