1. What are tactile walking surface indicators (TWSI)?

Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSI) are textured ground surface features installed to assist people who are blind or visually impaired in navigating public spaces safely. They provide detectable warnings and directional guidance through raised patterns that can be felt underfoot or with a cane.

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2. Do I need them for my building project?

Yes, if your project is in a public, commercial, or multi-residential space, tactile plates are usually required by Canadian accessibility laws such as the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Building Code (OBC). They are mandatory at areas like:

  • Pedestrian crossings

  • Stair landings and escalators

  • Building entrances and exits

  • Platform edges in transit stations

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3. What are the installation methods available?

ARTactile offers multiple installation options depending on surface type and project needs:

  • Surface Applied Plates – fast installation using mechanical fasteners and adhesives, ideal for retrofits.

  • Cast-In-Place Plates – embedded directly into freshly poured concrete for a seamless finish.

  • Replaceable Plates – designed for easy replacement in high-traffic areas.

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4. What’s the difference between warning and guidance tactile plates?

  • Warning Plates (truncated dome pattern): Alert pedestrians to hazards such as streets, drop-offs, or stairs. They serve as a “stop and pay attention” signal.

  • Guidance Plates (linear bar pattern): Provide directional cues, helping pedestrians navigate safely through open spaces.

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Compliance & Safety

  • Official Regulations & Requirements

  • Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), Part IV.1 – Accessibility Standards for the Built Environment
    Requires tactile walking surface indicators (TWSIs) on new or redeveloped public spaces in Ontario—such as curb ramps and sidewalk crossings. Compliance dates varied by organization type:

    • Government of Ontario: January 1, 2015

    • Designated public sector organizations: January 1, 2016

    • Large organizations: January 1, 2017

    • Small organizations: January 1, 2018 Ontario

  • Ontario Building Code (OBC) – Section 3.8.3.17 & 3.8.3.18
    Dictates where tactile attention indicators (truncated domes) are required. These must conform to ISO 23599 specifications—including dimensions, slip resistance, beveled edges, and installation layout. Required locations include:

    • Stair landings (top of stairs)

    • Platform edges (e.g., transit)

    • Accessible paths entering vehicular zones tactilesolution.ca+1

  • CAN/CSA B651 – Accessible Design for the Built Environment
    Sets the technical standards for tactile plate design in Canada and is referenced by both the OBC and federal building guidelines. tactilesolution.ca

  • City-specific Standards (e.g., Ottawa, Mississauga):
    Municipal technical drawings like Mississauga’s detail spacing, material, and installation approaches that align with CSA B651 and provincial regulations. City of Mississauga City of Ottawa

  • Enforcement & Effective Dates

  • The foundational AODA standards became law between 2015–2018, depending on organization size and order—meaning most public-access spaces in Ontario must already comply. Ontario

  • These requirements are actively enforced, especially for public construction and redevelopment projects. Non-compliance can lead to legal liability or accessibility complaints.

  • Why It Matters

Including this Compliance & Safety information on your Resources page:

  • Demonstrates your expertise in accessibility law

  • Helps clients understand their legal obligations

  • Provides clear timelines and rationale for installing tactile indicators

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