Hazard Warning DDA-compliant Tactiles and Steps

Hardscape offers a comprehensive range of tactile surfaces for the guidance of the visually impaired. Working with architects and building contractors Hardscape can supply fully compliant products to the Part M building regulations and the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and to BS 8300 parts 1 and 2.

Steps, tactiles and other bespoke associated features that relate to Hardscape’s material offer are designed to warn users of potential hazards in the immediate vicinity and to proceed with caution. Hazard warning tactile flag paving features a raised striped pattern which runs across its surface which is also referred to as Corduroy paving – this product should be used in accordance with The Disabled Persons Act 1981 and DDA 2004 and part M and BS 8300 for buildings. These specific products are for use at the top and bottom of steps, level crossings and intersections of shared cycle/pedestrian routes. They should be installed at 90 degrees and 400mm from any potential hazards.

Light Reflection Value (LRV)

The definition of visual contrast in Approved Document M para.0.29 refers to a difference in light reflectance values of 30 points – but what does this mean and how is it measured?

The guidance is based on Annexe B of BS 8300 – 1 :2018 – using light reflectance values to access visual contrast. For people with good vision, differences in hue (the nature of colour) or chroma (the intensity of that colour) is not a problem, they provide adequate visual contrast. But for partially sighted or blind people that unfortunately is not always the case.

The main feature of a surface, which appears to be strongly correlated with the ability of visually impaired people to identify differences in colour, is the amount of light the surface reflects, or its light reflectance value (LRV). The LRV scale runs from 0, which is a perfectly absorbing surface that could be assumed to be totally black, up to 100, which is a perfectly reflective surface that could be the perfect white.

Whilst there is considerable confidence in recommending a difference in LRV of 30 points or more, there is also much anecdotal evidence to suggest that a difference of around 20 points may still be acceptable. Especially for external areas where differing environmental and luxe (light) readings as well as surface textures can affect the main feature.

Hardscape offer a full range of materials produced to DDA standards and requirements for tactiles, steps etc including LRV.

Below is a selection of images that highlight these products which are available to specify along with conventional paving products and materials.