The Benefits of Photoluminescent Systems

purple microscopic organisms

People can become easily flustered in emergency situations, especially when a power failure leaves them in the dark. When backup generators, batteries, and other typical alternatives fail, unique options like photoluminescent systems can provide highly visible, straightforward warnings and guidance without electricity.

What Is a Photoluminescent System?

The word “photoluminescent” refers to something that glows in the dark using stored light energy. A photoluminescent system is a coordinated set of tiles or pavers that have glowing guidance markings to help people avoid dangerous areas and/or find certain locations in the dark.

Unlike fading glow-in-the-dark toys and stickers, the heavy-duty photoluminescent materials of products like ADA Solutions’ Glow-Dome systems can store up a great deal of energy and glow brightly and distinctly for quite some time.

The Many Advantages

There are numerous reasons why using a photoluminescent system can be beneficial for all types of applications across industries. The following are just a few examples.

Provides Calming Guidance in an Emergency

No matter how well people seem to understand what to do in an emergency, that information can quickly become hard to remember when an emergency actually occurs. When the power goes out, the addition of darkness to the situation can increase anxiety. Photoluminescent systems help to prevent panic by providing clear guidance and a sense of order.

dark subway Metro station

A city might decide to install a photoluminescent system along the edge of a subway platform to help pedestrians locate its edge if the lights fail. They could also be used to highlight walkways and emergency exit paths to help people avoid hard-to-see hazards on their way to safety.

No Need for Electricity or Batteries

Because a photoluminescent system is always storing up light energy from its surroundings, you’ll never need to worry about connecting it to a backup generator or buying and storing batteries. When the electricity fails, the tiles light up without any external power source. This means you’ll also be saving money on power costs!

Available as Pavers, Replaceable Tiles, or Retrofits

At ADA Solutions, our photoluminescent systems are flexible enough to meet a variety of needs and applications. We offer photoluminescent pavers, replaceable tiles for new construction, and retrofit options for existing construction. This means that updating a space with a photoluminescent system won’t require major demolition and re-construction.

Straightforward, Long-Lasting Function

Photoluminescent systems work on a simple, efficient principle that isn’t over-engineered. There are no moving parts to break down, no complicated interface and minimal maintenance. These systems are as straightforward as it gets; simply clean them like you would normal flooring and replace them as needed. Our tiles are built to last with durable materials to maximize their lifespan.

Provide Visual Cues Even in the Dark with Our Photoluminescent Products

At ADA Solutions, we strive to provide quality safety warning solutions for a wide variety of needs. With our innovative Glow-Dome technology, we’ve helped businesses, cities, and other clients create safer, more accessible spaces for people at all levels of ability. For a free quote on our efficient, cost-effective photoluminescent warning systems, call us at 1-800-372-0519.

The Process of Installing ADA Tiles

Different Color ADA Tile Squares

The use of tactile tiles in various locations is required as part of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In addition to the ADA, many local, county, and state government agencies also have their own specific laws that require the use of ADA tiles in specific locations to make accessibility easier for everyone.

For example, way-finding surfaces can be very common on university campuses, at train stations, in airports, and around public parks that have walking/jogging trails. These tiles with tactile surfaces and truncated domes are also found at intersections, crosswalks, rail and bus platforms, hospital entrances, retail store entrances, and more.

While there is a wide array of colors of ADA tiles, the most popular one is bright yellow. When selecting tiles to install as part of your project, you can choose any color you want—most of the time. In certain states, there are specific color requirements. For instance, in California, you must use the bright yellow tactile surface tiles.

If there is no color requirement, you still need to follow the ADA guidelines for tile installation. The tiles must be of a contrasting color compared to the color of the surface. If the surface is asphalt, then you would want a lighter-colored tile. Conversely, if the surface is concrete, then you want a darker-colored tile.

Ultimately, it is your responsibility to review any local, county, state, and federal requirements for ADA tile installation, as well as the ADA guidelines to ensure compliance.

What Are the Different Tile Installation Options?

There are two general installation options you can choose from—Cast-in-Place or Surface Applied. Each option has its advantages which are worth your time to review to determine which type of tiles would be best suited for your project and current needs.

Cast-in-Place Tile Installation

Man Measuring and Cutting ADA Square Tile Before Installation

Cast-in-Place tile installation is setting the tiles into wet concrete so the tiles can be made level with the ground surface. The physical characteristics of the surface material should be specified in the project documents.

If the tiles are being installed at a street curb or intersection, they could require a slope from the elevated sidewalk surface to the street level. The grade of the slope will be specified in the ADA guidelines. Furthermore, the placement of the tiles will vary but should adhere to the ADA guidelines.

Prior to setting the tiles into the surface material, it should be freshly poured and finished level for a true and smooth finish. When working with concrete, you will need to carefully pound the tile into the wet concrete using a rubber mallet and a piece of wood to shield the tactile surface from damage.

You need to pound the tile into the concrete so that all air underneath it has been relaxed and the tile elevation is consistent with the project drawings and ADA specifications. Make sure to make any adjustments to the placement of the tile before the concrete sets.

When you are satisfied the tile is in the right location, place one cinder block onto each of the ends to hold the tile in place while the concrete cures. You will need to allow the concrete to fully cure and set before walking on the tactile tiles.

If you are using quick-drying concrete, the tactile surface could be ready to walk on in as little as four hours. However, it is your responsibility to ensure proper concrete curing occurs so the tiles are properly secured and set into the concrete.

Surface Applied Tile Installation

Caulk and Adhesive Added to Bottom of ADA Tile

As the name implies, Surface Applied tile installation is using Surface Mount tiles and placing these directly onto the concrete surface. Surface Mount tiles are well-suited for projects where the concrete is fairly fresh and does not need to be replaced.

Rather than having to tear out the concrete and pour new wet concrete, as is required with Cast-in-Place tiles, tile installation is much faster and easier using the Surface Applied method.

Prior to installing the tiles, you want to clean the surface to remove all dirt, dust, debris, grease, oil, etc. It is okay if the surface has staining on it. This will not affect the installation procedure. After cleaning the surface area, allow the surface to fully dry and be free of any moisture.

The tactile panel will easily adhere to the existing pre-cleaned surface using the following steps. You will want to lay out the tile on the ground and confirm the installation location. Next, drill out the holes needed to secure the tile fasteners in place. Each hole should be at least two inches deep. Do not fasten the tile to the surface just yet.

After the holes have been drilled, clean away any concrete dust. Flip the tile over so the bottom is facing upward. Apply a sufficient amount of adhesive onto the bottom of the tile. You want a bead of about three-eighths of an inch of adhesive.

Apply the adhesive around the outside of the frame on the smooth part, as well as on the smooth part on the interior of the tile to create small rectangular “blocks.” Carefully flip the tile back over and set it into the desired installation location. Press firmly down on the tile so that the adhesive can spread.

Make any adjustments prior to fastening the tile to the ground. Once satisfied with the placement, place fasteners in the pre-drilled holes. Using a rubber mallet, hammer into place. Last, caulk around the perimeter of the entire tile using BASF NP1 or an equivalent-rated caulk. Allow the adhesive and caulk time to fully cure before walking on the tile.

Can Surface Mount ADA Tiles Be Installed on Asphalt?

Due to the instability of asphalt, it is not recommended to use the Surface Applied installation method and Surface Mount tiles. If you need to installed tactile tiles in areas where asphalt is the primary surface covering, you will want to use either Cast-in-Place or Replaceable Cast-in-Place tiles.

This process involves removing the asphalt in the location where you want to install the tiles. You do not have to remove all of the asphalt, but just enough so that the tile will fit into the ground and meet elevation consistency requirements.

Once the asphalt has been removed, you will pour a concrete footer into the location. Next, you will level the concrete, and then install the tile using the Cast-in-Place method. You will need to let the concrete fully cure and keep the area blocked off until it does.

Is There a Different Tile Installation Method for Cast-in-Place Replaceable Tiles?

No, for installing replaceable Cast-in-Place tactile tiles in concrete or asphalt, the installation process is similar to the Cast-in-Place method. The only difference is that when the tile wears out, or if it is accidentally damaged, you do not need to remove the entire tile to replace it.

Rather, you just order a replacement cover for the tile. The cover is made up of removable and replaceable tiles. It is held in place using special fasteners. Having this flexibility is beneficial, especially if you know the tiles will wear out long before the concrete or asphalt surface needs to be replaced.

Another reason some projects use replaceable tiles is when they are using a graphic tile system. A graphic tile system is where the tiles are customized with the graphics or logo you want. For instance, they could be used for advertising local restaurants, conveying information such as a handicap-accessible street crossing, and so on.

For further information and full details about Cast-in-Place and Surface Applied tile installation methods, or help finding the right tactile tiles for your project, please feel free to contact ADA Solutions at 1-800-372-0519 today!

We offer a wide array of customizable tile solutions, as well as radius systems, iron dome tiles, glow-dome tiles, and way-finding surfaces.

Benefits of Graphic Tile Systems

caution train crossing look both ways Sign

Graphic tile systems benefit those with and without visual impairments. These detectable warning services provide a warning to those with impaired vision, letting them know that caution is needed.

On the other hand, a graphic tile system also offers a text- and graphics-based message for those without a visual disability. These tiles can be used to display a variety of messages, including wheelchair accessible, bike lane, do not enter, stand back, and many others.

Keep reading to learn the benefits of graphic tile systems for pedestrians.

Improve Pedestrian Safety

In 2018, there was more than a 3% increase in the number of pedestrian deaths. In that year more than 6,000 pedestrians were killed, which marked the most deaths since 1990. While there are many factors that play a role in pedestrian safety, there are also many ways to increase safety for those who are traversing sidewalks and roadways on foot.

A graphic tile system is an effective way to keep pedestrians safe. Not only do these systems offer a detectable surface for those with a visual impairment, but the system also provides a message for those without vision problems.

These tile systems let pedestrians know that there’s an increased need for caution. The system can be used to depict all sorts of messages, letting people know that they need to be mindful of moving vehicles, or that they need to stand back from the curb to allow for the passage or busses or trains.

Send a Message of Welcome & Caution

People these days tend to be looking down at their phones rather than looking up where a traditional sign would be posted. Not only can graphic tile systems be used to warn pedestrians, but they can also be used to better direct and welcome people to their destination.

For example, if you own and operate an ice skating rink, you could not only use a graphic tile system to warn people of a slippery surface but also to welcome them.

Meet ADA-Compliance Regulations

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets rules and regulations to ensure fair treatment and opportunities for millions of Americans. The law requires that local, state, and federal governments meet guidelines for certain specifications of pedestrians, including curb specifications and the use of detectable warning surfaces.

With graphic tile systems, you’re able to better meet ADA compliance while also improving safety for those without visual disabilities.

Not only is it a legal requirement to be ADA-compliant, as humans we should all work to improve the lives and safety of those around us. With a graphics-based detectable warning system, you’re investing in a product that saves lives.

Choose ADA Solutions

red stop do not enter sign

Our replaceable graphic tile systems follow our long-established tradition of innovative and ADA compliant solutions. Tiles are fully customizable, including colors, fonts, messages, and ink options. With customizable tiles, you can get the right message across that keeps pedestrians safe.

These tile systems have been designed to meet or exceed all state and federal accessibility standards, so you can purchase with peace of mind and confidence. Contact our detectable warning experts today at (800) 372-0519 to get a free quote.

Source:

  1. https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety

How ADA Solutions Ensures Safety for All

how-ada-solutions-ensures-safety-for-all-feature

Millions of Americans have some sort of visual impairment ranging from poor eyesight to complete blindness. Being visually disabled can present challenges when venturing outside of the home and accessing public walkways, transportation, rail platforms, and work environments.

Some of the more common obstacles found outside the home are unexpected objects, traffic, sudden drops, and uneven surfaces. Detectable warning surfaces help visually impaired people to address these and other types of obstacles.

There are different styles of detectable warning surfaces which can be used to help those with visual impairments. One style has raised, round truncated domes which indicate an upcoming hazard like entering a busy intersection at a street crossing.

Another style has elevated bar-like sections to help direct people in a safe direction while walking. This style is commonly referred to as way-finding detectable warning surfaces. They are often used in conjunction with truncated dome warning surfaces.

The use of detectable warning surfaces benefits everyone, not just those people with visual impairments. They help improve mobility, increase safety, make it easier to access work environments, and more.

To learn more about how ADA Solutions ensures safety for all with detectable warning surfaces and the benefits they provide, we invite you to continue reviewing the following infographic.

Afterward, if you have further questions or would like to find out how detectable warning surfaces could benefit your business, municipality, or other public spaces, please feel free to contact ADA Solutions directly to speak with a representative today!

How ADA Solutions Ensures Safety for All

Click below to embed this infographic into your website:

Why Choose ADA Solutions

Steel Detectable Warning Tiles in Subway Tunnel

When it comes to ADA-compliant warning systems, we know that you have a variety of manufacturers to choose from. However, we believe that our high-quality products, dedication to customer service, and other great benefits will convince you to choose ADA Solutions. Learn more about us and discover why we’re an ideal resource for all your ADA tile needs.

Who We Are

For more than 20 years, we’ve been meeting the detectable surface needs of customers across a wide variety of industries and professions. As the leading provider of ADA detectable warning surfaces in North America, we strive to produce affordably priced cast in place, surface applied, and replaceable tile products without compromising quality or regulations compliance.

We understand that our industry is about more than just helping customers meet government regulations; it’s about making workplaces, schools, hospitals, parking lots, transit stations, and public spaces safer and more accessible for pedestrians at all levels of ability. Naturally, this is also a core part of our identity as a company.

Our Products and Their Benefits

ADA products aren’t one-size-fits-all. In order to serve a variety of purposes and suit different types of construction, we offer a range of different tiles and systems. From custom graphic tiles with branded logos to photoluminescent systems for emergency guidance in a power outage, we’ve got what you need to get the job done.

Cast in Place Tiles

For new-construction jobs, we offer standard cast-in-place warning surface tiles. These panels are meant to be pressed into fresh concrete so that they are held in place when it is dry. This is one of the simplest types of products we offer, which makes it a flexible long-term solution for a variety of needs.

Features and benefits:

  • Made from durable composite material
  • ADA-compliant truncated dome surface texture
  • 0.25” nominal thickness (not including truncated domes)
  • Available in a range of sizes from 24” x 36” to 36” x 60”
  • Available in nine approved colors

Cast-in-Place Replaceable Tiles

Yellow Bulldozer Clearing Pavement for ADA Tile Surfaces

In 2006, we introduced our innovative cast-in-place replaceable products, designed to be easily replaced after wear and tear have taken their toll. In addition to the panel itself, a replaceable system comes with a heavy-duty anchoring system that is embedded into the concrete. The panel itself can then be secured into the anchor using bolts.
Features and benefits:

  • Embedment flange is 0.75” deep and 1.02” thick
  • System has a 2” embedment depth in concrete for secure placement
  • Protective, structurally fit caps for bolt heads

Surface-Applied Tiles

Our surface-applied products are ideal for adding ADA tiles to existing construction. These panels are simply installed on top of existing surfaces using strong structural adhesives and matching fasteners. Because there’s no need to dig up old surfaces or pour new concrete, our surface-applied tiles are perfect for retrofitting applications.

Features and benefits:

  • Beveled edges create safe transitions (no trip hazard)
  • 0.1875” thickness for thin surface application
  • Comes with fasteners, anchors, and structural adhesive
  • Installs in as little as five minutes

Radius Systems

Not everything has a straight edge, which is why we offer curved radius tactile systems as well. Our unique systems and methods make it easy to accommodate curved surfaces quickly and accurately. With our convenient ADA radius calculator, you can determine just what you need and what cut dimensions you’ll want to use during installation.
Features and benefits:

  • Ideal for radius conditions 6’ – 22’
  • Tiles are pre-scored for 10’, 15’, and 10’ radius measurements
  • Can be cut quickly and easily (within minutes)
  • No cutting needed if the radius is 11’ – 13’

Cast Iron Tactile Systems

We’ve also developed an extremely durable cast iron tactile system using what we call the Iron-dome. Because cast iron is such a strong and resilient material, these systems are perfect for outdoor applications where the tiles will be exposed to elements like snow, rain, salt, and extreme temperatures. These systems are designed to be cast in place and replaceable, but they shouldn’t need to be replaced for a very long time.
Features and benefits:

  • 0.38” nominal thickness (not including truncated domes)
  • Extremely wear-resistant; very long lifespan
  • Available in two sizes: 24” x 24” and 24” x 30”
  • Eligible for LEED points® (materials and resources category)

Replaceable Graphic Tile Systems

For further visual impact and function, we’ve developed replaceable graphic tile system products. In addition to the ADA-compliant truncated dome detectable surface texture, our graphic tiles can be fully customized with whatever imagery or messaging you have in mind. With clearly printed graphics mapped across one or more sequential tiles, you can provide additional warning messages, share important information, or even display an advertisement.
Features & benefits:

  • Combines safety and accessibility with other functions
  • 4-color artwork at photographic quality
  • Easily map custom images and add messaging in minutes

Photoluminescent Systems

To ensure that warnings are still noticeable even when light is scarce, we offer convenient photoluminescent warning surface systems. Charged naturally by ambient light, the Glow-dome technology on these panels creates highly visible warnings in darkness using photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) materials.
Features and benefits:

  • No need for a power source; charged by ambient light energy
  • Ideal for emergency power outages or areas prone to darkness
  • Available as pavers, replaceable tiles, and retrofit transit tiles

Way-Finding Surfaces

For pedestrians who need tactile assistance to navigate across roads and around other areas, we offer way-finding surfaces with directional bars that individuals can feel and follow for guidance. These can be installed in new concrete or on top of existing concrete.
Features and benefits:

  • Directional bar design helps visually impaired individuals navigate by feel
  • Metal or composite materials
  • Available with tamper-resistant hardware

We Know the Regulations Inside and Out

Compliance with ADA regulations is always at the forefront of what we do. We know what the regulations are and what our customers need to do to meet them. When you buy from us, you won’t just be getting compliant tiles—you’ll also get the information you need to properly install your tiles and fully comply with the regulations. Because we keep up with changes to the requirements, you can trust that the products you purchase from us will always be up to date.

Helping Communities at Home and Abroad

With more than 1,500 distribution locations throughout North, Central, and South America, we’ve been able to meet the demands of international customers and improve the lives of those in their communities. We’re deeply dedicated to reducing barriers and increasing public access and mobility for visually impaired individuals throughout our distribution regions.

Reliable Customer Service

Women Searching Online for ADA Detectable Warning Tiles

In addition to offering a range of great products, we also strive to give customers the best possible experience. We know that every project is unique, which is why we’re happy to work with our customers one-on-one to determine what kinds of products would best suit their purposes. By backing quality products with reliable service, we’ve built many strong, long-term relationships with customers.

Whether you’re a new customer or have worked with us for years, all quotes for products are free of charge, allowing you to explore your options thoroughly before you ever pay us a penny.

Find Out How We Can Help Meet Your Needs

If you’re looking for truly innovative, industry-leading detectable warning surface products, ADA Solutions is the one to trust. Call us today at 1-800-372-0519 to discuss how we can help you with your next project.

What Is the Purpose of ADA Tiles?

blurred movement disabled on a city street

ADA tiles are part of a sidewalk or entry system that will help your business comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. ADA requirements for surfaces are detailed and complex, but installing approved tiles as required will help protect your visitors from injury and your business from a lawsuit or fines for noncompliance.

Let’s discuss ADA tile systems to help you understand the requirements and choose the right tiles to upgrade your facility and achieve ADA compliance.

Why Are ADA Tiles Required?

In order to prevent discrimination and provide equal access to public places, the ADA has established criteria for sidewalks, entryways, parking spots, restrooms, counter heights, and minimum widths for walkways, aisles, and doorways. Using ADA-approved tiles or adding them after the fact ensures compliance with these requirements.

What Types of ADA Tiles Will Your Business Need?

ADA dome tiles are designed to provide a tactile warning to individuals who cross them. Those using a wheelchair or walker and the visually impaired will feel the change in surface and know that they are making a transition.  ADA tiles are required in these scenarios:

  • Leaving a sidewalk and entering a parking lot or roadway
  • Changing grades, meaning moving up a ramp or reaching the bottom
  • At sidewalk or walkway intersections under specific sets of circumstances

What Are the Features of ADA Tiles?

Most commonly used are ADA dome tiles, which are built to meet these specifications:

  • Be a durable, uniform, and recognizable color.
  • Have truncated domes arranged in a square grid pattern.
  • Domes must be 0.2” high, with a 0.9” base diameter, spaced 1.6-2.4” apart.

Selecting the Right ADA Tile for Your Application

There are several types of approved ADA tiles which can be used in combination to meet federal, state, and local guidelines for accessibility:

  • Cast In Place Replaceable Tiles are wet set into concrete at the required level or angle. These are anchored with steel bolts and washers and may be removed or replaced. These are available as square or rectangular shapes in the ADA-required widths.
  • Radius Tactile Cast In Place Tiles allow dome tiles to follow curved sidewalks, curbs, ramps, and pathways with the required dimensions of 24” x 33.25”.
  • Radius Tactile Surface Mount Tiles are cut to fit and laid on top of a concrete or other substrate. They are secured with adhesive, as well as bolts and washers set flush or below the surface, and the edges must be caulked.

Cost-Effective ADA Tile Solutions Are Available

wheelchair user at barrier free accessible overpass

As your business makes the investment in ADA tiles to comply with regulations, consider the money saved on a single lawsuit or ADA fine. Choosing a supplier for your tiles should also weigh the longevity and quality of the product to reduce replacement costs and prevent accidents caused by defective or deteriorating tiles.

At ADA Solutions, we offer superior-quality fiberglass polymer composite surface tiles, which are manufactured in a U.S.-based ISO 9002 certified facility. With rigorous quality management in place throughout the production cycle, our ADA products meet or exceed all requirements and will continue to protect your visitors and customers far into the future.

If there has been a complaint against your business regarding noncompliance, the best next step is to make improvements to become compliant. Taking voluntary action right away without admitting liability effectively protects you from court orders and additional fees. If you need help selecting the right products to achieve compliant access, contact us today for the right advice and service to smooth the road to full ADA compliance.

Living with Disabilities: Accessories for the Handicapped

Woman on Wheelchair

There are different types of disabilities that can affect how well one is able to get through his or her day. To ease one’s day to day activities, various accessories are available that can make life a little less challenging. These accessories are designed to address challenges such as:

  • Cooking
  • Lifting
  • Grabbing
  • Walking
  • Climbing
  • Sitting
  • Standing
  • Cleaning
  • Bathing

In addition, accessories for people with disabilities help improve safety and comfort when at home or work or on the go. For example, the use of a walker, cane, or wheelchair can make it easier to get around and address mobility disabilities. When selecting accessories for yourself, make sure to identify what challenges you face and which accessories could make things safer, easier, and more comfortable for you.

To learn more about accessories for the handicapped, statistics about the most common disabilities, and which accessories might be right for you, we invite you to continue reading and reviewing the following infographic.

If you are responsible for ensuring safe walkways, entrances, and other accessible areas exist at your business, apartment complex, or other public locations, please feel free to contact ADA Solutions to learn more about our detectable warning surfaces and solutions today!

Living with Disabilities: Accessories for the Handicapped - ADA SOLUTIONS

What Is a Photoluminescent Detectable Warning Surface System?

Empty Road at Night Lit by Neon Light

A photoluminescent detectable warning surface system is a walking surface that essentially glows in the dark. This type of system can be found used in buildings; on airplanes, rail, and subway stations; and in other areas where there can be a high volume of pedestrian traffic.

During the day or under normal lighting, the photoluminescent system will blend into its surroundings. When the lights are turned off, then the photoluminescence will start to glow and light up. The length of time the system will glow does depend on the type of technology being used to illuminate the system.

What Makes a Photoluminescent Detectable Warning Surface System Glow?

There are a few different technologies that can “power” a photoluminescent detectable warning surface system. The first one is the use of copper-activated zinc sulfide, which is the traditional standard first used when photoluminescence was initially developed.

The second method, which is used with a wide range of photoluminescent products and systems today, is using strontium aluminate, a patented phosphorescent chemical. The chemical is applied to specific areas where it needs to glow. The chemical lasts much longer than the traditional standard and glows as much as ten times brighter.

The chemical can be charged from either artificial or natural light sources. It stores light photons within the chemical. Once fully charged, the chemical gradually releases the light charge, which appears to glow in the dark in reduced light levels for many hours. One benefit of the patented phosphorescent chemical is it can be recharged numerous times without any noticeable decline in performance or illumination levels.

The third method is to use a rechargeable LED light system. If this method is used, there will be small solar panels attached to the system so it can absorb light and recharge the LED lights. The LED lights will illuminate when it is dark and remain light until the battery powering the lights is drained.

How Can a Photoluminescent System Benefit Pedestrians at Night?

A photoluminescent system benefits pedestrians at night because it makes it easier to see specific walkways and paths. Even if there is sufficient overhead lighting, there can still be areas on the ground that can be difficult to see clearly.

For example, many retail stores now have long walkways down the center of their parking lots. These walkways could be illuminated at night to make it easier to see with a photoluminescent system.

glow dome photoluminescent systems

How Is a Photoluminescent System Beneficial During a Power Outage?

A photoluminescent system is beneficial during a power outage since it does not rely upon a direct power source to illuminate. It can be used to help direct people to the nearest exits or other safe locations within a building, in a rail or subway station, and so on. A photoluminescent system provides an economical way for businesses and municipalities to enhance safety for people while, at the same time, improves their emergency preparedness.

To learn more about Glow-Dome™ photoluminescent systems, please feel free to contact ADA Solutions at 1-800-372-0519 today! Glow-Dome™ can be easily incorporated into ADA detectable warning surface systems so you can provide both visual and non-visual safety for everyone.

How Do Detectable Warning Surfaces Increase Safety for All Pedestrians?

Yellow Tactile Paving For The Blind Handicap

If you do any type of walking or use public transportation to commute to and from work, you have probably noticed those raised truncated domes on the ground at intersections, rail platforms, and even near bus stops. While we might not give them much thought, they do serve a valuable purpose for everyone.

These tiles with raised round circles are commonly referred to as detectable warning surfaces. They  come in different colors so they contrast with the surrounding surfaces where they are installed. They could be red, white, blue, or yellow. Some states like California require that a specific color is used, while other states allow any color to be used, as long as it contrasts with the color of the surrounding surfaces..

The raised circular sections on the warning surfaces alert people that they are approaching a dangerous or hazardous area and need to take precautions. For people who are blind or have reduced vision, they alert them to this change so they can be better prepared when crossing a busy intersection, for instance.

full frame of detectable warning surface

For people without visual impairments, the raised circles on the warning surfaces help regain their attention when they are distracted. How many times have you been on your smartphone texting or checking on social media updates while walking down the sidewalk? You get distracted by what you are reading or typing. Before you know it, you could be walking out into a busy intersection that is without detectable warning surfaces.

Instead,  your feet detect the detectable warning surface’s raised circular domes of the warning tile. This regains your focus to look up and see if it is safe to cross the street. This is just one example of how these warning surfaces benefit everyone.

A Brief History of Detectable Warning Surfaces

The contrasting color requirement for warning surfaces comes from the Federal ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). The act was signed into law in 1990 by President George H. W. Bush. The ADA covers a wide range of topics and requirements, from accessibility to discrimination against people with disabilities. Within the act, there is one section which discusses ADA detectable warning surfaces.

ADA - Americans With Disabilities Act

This section has been updated several times since becoming law in 1990. It was updated in 2001 to specify where the ADA required colored warning surfaces to be installed, as on curb ramps or on rail and public transit platforms. It was updated again in 2010, which modified the 2001 guidelines. As of 2010, colored warning surfaces with raised domes are required on rail and transit platforms and curb ramps in the public right-of-way.

In addition, cities, counties, and states can all have their own requirements and laws regarding the use of warning surfaces. It is the responsibility of each person to verify the requirements for their business, commercial property, or public use operation.

To learn more about warning surfaces and help selecting the right ones for your location, please feel free to contact ADA Solutions at (800) 372-0519 today! We would be happy to discuss your needs and provide you with a free quote!