What makes tactile studs and strips compliant?

Which guidance applies to your tactile installation?

One of the most common questions we receive is whether a tactile stud or strip is compliant. The answer is rarely contained in the product alone. Compliance normally comes from combining the right dimensions with the right pattern, location, contrast and installation.

It is also possible for more than one document to be relevant to a project. A station, public highway, commercial building and private development can each bring different responsibilities. The first step is to establish where the tactile indicators are being used and who, if anyone, is responsible for approving the finished scheme.

What does DfT compliant mean?

DfT refers to the Department for Transport. In relation to tactile indicators, the term is normally used for products designed around the dimensions associated with the Department’s guidance on tactile paving surfaces. It is a useful shorthand for the product, but it should not be taken to mean that any layout made with that product is automatically compliant.

The position, pattern, depth and relationship with the feature being identified still need to follow the guidance relevant to the location. Our article on what DfT compliant means looks at the term in more detail.

How does Approved Document M apply?

Approved Document M provides guidance on access to and use of buildings. Tactile studs and strips are most clearly referenced through external applications such as blister paving at crossings and corduroy warning surfaces near external steps. Internal use is less straightforward, particularly around stairs, where differences in friction and the possibility of creating a trip hazard need to be considered.

This does not mean tactile indicators cannot be used indoors. It means the designer should avoid assuming that an external arrangement can simply be transferred inside without looking at the floor finish, contrast, friction and the wider access strategy. Read how Part M applies to tactile studs and strips for the specific references.

What about Approved Document K?

Approved Document K deals with protection from falling, collision and impact. It becomes relevant where studs are used on or around stairs, handrails and guarding, including anti-skate applications. In these situations the complete detail matters: the shape of the stud, how far it projects, where it is placed and whether it introduces another hazard.

Our article on Part K and handrail anti-skate studs explains how the guidance relates to this type of product.

Why does the setting make a difference?

Guidance is written around particular environments and hazards. At a pedestrian crossing, the surface identifies a crossing point and its relationship with the kerb. At a railway station, an offset blister warns of the platform edge. Directional guidance in a station or open public space may be subject to additional operator or client requirements.

This is why there is no universal tactile layout that can be dropped into every project. Our comparison of guidance for tactile guidance paving shows how requirements can change between environments.

What should be agreed before specification?

Before a product is ordered, confirm:

• The feature, hazard or route the tactile surface is intended to identify.
• The landowner, operator and approving authority.
• The guidance, standard and edition named in the project documents.
• The pattern, orientation, dimensions and setting-out drawing.
• The required visual contrast and its relationship with the surrounding surface.
• The material, fixing, substrate and maintenance requirements.

Does a compliant product make a compliant installation?

No. A product can have the correct dimensions and still be installed in the wrong pattern, in the wrong position or on an unsuitable surface. The product is one part of the finished system. Design, setting out and installation have to carry the same level of care.

Summary

The safest starting point is to define the project and the message before selecting a product. Once the relevant guidance and approval route are understood, the appropriate dimensions, layout, material and fixing become much clearer. Where guidance is open to interpretation, the proposed detail should be agreed with the responsible designer or authority before installation.

Studmarc also provides RIBA-approved CPD courses for teams looking to develop their understanding of tactile and architectural stud applications.