FOLLOWING TACTILE TILES IN KING GEORGE SQUARE
By Kim Pilic

During the week, Forward Steps Mobility had the pleasure of providing some Orientation & Mobility (O&M) travel route training with an individual in Brisbane CBD, including a segment of King George Square. One of the orientation strategies involved tactually referencing a linear set of tactile ground surface indicators with a white cane. These tiles assisted as a helpful means of travelling a straight line through a large spatial setting.

Tactile ground surface indicators are often abbreviated as an acronym, known as TGSIs. These tiles come in two forms or raised shapes: an elongated version, which provides direction; and, raised circular dots, which provide a warning or an alert to a particular structural feature within the built environment, such as a drop-off edge or changes of direction. These simple environmental adaptations make a huge difference in aiding efficient and effective navigation of spatially complex environments.

For all of the sighted folk reading this post, imagine yourself attempting to navigate a CBD environment with your eyes closed. How would you manage to stay oriented to your surroundings, particularly walking a straight line of travel?
Next time you walk through the City, take a look around you with new insight and appreciation for these unique features. Make a point of discovering the presence and position of TGSI's in the world around you; after all, they serve an important purpose for people who are blind or have low vision, assisting in promoting their independence within the wider community.

Forward Steps Mobility loves the opportunity to provide quality O&M services. Feel free to contact Kim Pilic for more information about this important and empowering service.