Taktila® durable tactile indicators are made from recycled plastic

To comply with universal accessibility regulations, buildings are required to use tactile indicators on floors and staircases. These serve as guides for blind and visually-impaired pedestrians, warning of approaching steps or hazards and providing directional information to aid navigation.

Given the volume of tactile indicators required, their material origin and durability can have an impact on the cost and environmental footprint of construction and renovation projects.

High-quality Taktila® tactile indicators are manufactured in Norway from 100 per cent recycled polyamide (PA) plastic reinforced with glass. Designed for indoor use on floors and staircases, these durable tactile indicators can withstand wear and tear and are suitable for placement in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. Taktila indicators have a slightly rounded shape and a flat top, making them easy to detect with a mobility cane and reducing the risk of stumbling.

Taktila indicators are delivered with 3M ™ VHB ™ Tape, the most powerful tape-based adhesive joint on the market. While most tactile indicators are drilled into the floor, Taktila indicators can be fastened onto any surface without generating dust or noise.

Taktila recently completed a test and research project with the SINTEF research organisation. After being exposed to nearly 14 million pedestrians since 2017, Taktila indicators showed excellent adhesion and durability.

Because Taktila® tactile indicators are fastened with tape, installation is dust and noise-free, which is especially important in existing buildings. Installation time is reduced by two thirds compared with conventional products with a non-tape fastening.

To ensure greener production and help to create a demand for recycled plastics, Taktila manufactures its tactile indicators from recycled PA rather than virgin plastic. For each kg of recycled plastic used, the company estimates a savings in raw materials and energy equivalent to 2 kg of crude oil.

Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) and Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) have been completed for Taktila's products. Taktila are the first tactile indicators to attain this level of environmental verification.

As virtually all new and refurbished buildings are required to have tactile indicators in compliance with universal accessibility regulations, the potential market for Taktila® indicators is very large.

Moreover, growing focus on sustainability in the architecture and construction sector is increasing demand for eco-friendly solutions.

Taktila’s target markets include public buildings, office buildings, hospitals and airports.