Layout of Tactile Paving and Indicators – European and UK Standards

This guidance is part of the SOZI EOOD expert system for tactile paving and explains the principles for correct layout and arrangement of tactile paving and tactile indicators in accordance with European and UK accessibility standards.

The material has an explanatory and practical character and is intended to support designers, investors and contractors in the correct application of tactile elements, without replacing the official regulatory and normative texts.

This guidance is based on the requirements of ISO 23599:2019 – Tactile Walking Surface Indicators and the UK standard BS 8300-1 / BS 8300-2 – Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment. The described layouts represent functional principles that are adapted to the specific architectural context of each project.

Types of tactile walking surface indicators

International and UK practice recognises two main types of tactile walking surface indicators:

Guidance indicators (directional tactile paving) – used to indicate a safe and continuous route of travel.
Warning indicators (hazard / attention tactile paving) – used to warn of hazards, level changes, decision points or areas requiring increased attention.

The logical combination of these two indicator types creates a readable and predictable navigation system for people with visual impairments.

Principles of correct tactile paving layout

Correct installation follows a clear functional sequence:

definition of the pedestrian movement route
layout of the guidance (directional) indicators
placement of warning indicators at decision points
control of orientation, alignment and continuity
surface installation according to material requirements

Routes are defined according to actual pedestrian movement and functional use of space, not architectural symmetry or visual composition.

Tactile paving within buildings and public facilities

Inside buildings and public facilities, tactile indicators are used to:

provide continuous orientation between key functional areas
guide users to entrances, reception desks, lifts and exits
combine guidance and warning indicators where required

Layouts must ensure uninterrupted guidance and clear identification of functional zones, in line with ISO 23599 and BS 8300 principles.

Tactile indicators at lifts

At accessible lifts, tactile paving is used to:

define a warning area in front of lift doors
connect the lift to the main guidance route
support safe approach and orientation

Clear spatial definition and consistent placement are essential to avoid confusion and ensure safe use.

Tactile paving at building entrances

At accessible entrances:

a warning indicator marks the entrance threshold
a guidance route connects the entrance to internal circulation
tactile elements are visually contrasted from surrounding surfaces

This ensures clear recognition of the entrance and safe transition between exterior and interior environments.

Route intersections and decision points

At intersections of tactile routes:

warning indicators signal a change of direction or choice point
guidance indicators are interrupted and reoriented

The purpose is to inform users that the route logic changes and conscious orientation is required.

Changes of direction and turns

Where routes change direction:

guidance indicators follow the intended route geometry
warning indicators are used for sharp or complex turns

Layouts must remain intuitive and consistent, even in spaces with limited geometry or tight radii.

Refuge islands and separation zones

At pedestrian refuge islands and separation zones:

warning indicators are placed before entering carriageways
guidance indicators define the safe crossing direction

The configuration depends on island shape, traffic organisation and pedestrian flow.

Public transport stops

At bus and public transport stops:

tactile indicators define waiting and boarding areas
guidance routes lead users to boarding positions

Layouts are adapted to pavement width, vehicle access and passenger circulation.

Stairs and level changes

At stairs and changes in level, warning tactile indicators are installed:

before the first step
after the last step

This provides timely warning and reduces the risk of accidents.

Freestanding equipment and functional elements

For freestanding elements such as ticket machines, information terminals or public telephones:

guidance indicators lead to the element
warning indicators define the functional zone

This ensures clear identification without obstructing circulation spaces.

Important clarification

The layouts described are functional principles. Exact dimensions, distances and configurations are defined during the design stage according to the specific project, its function and architectural environment.

As a manufacturer and supplier of tactile paving, SOZI EOOD provides technical information and guidance. Final design decisions must comply with applicable standards, regulations and the approved project documentation.

Materials from the SOZI EOOD Expert System on Tactile Paving

The following publications are part of a unified expert system developed by SOZI EOOD for the proper planning, selection and application of tactile paving and tactile walking surface indicators, in accordance with accessibility requirements and applicable standards across Europe and the United Kingdom.