Tactile Ground Surface Indicators
TGSIs provide critical navigation cues for people with vision impairment. AS/NZS 1428.4.1 specifies exactly where and how they must be installed. We get it right.
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Why TGSIs Must Be Installed Correctly
Quick answer: Under AS/NZS 1428.4.1, warning tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) are set back about 300 mm from a hazard such as the top or bottom stair nosing, and must contrast with the surrounding floor. Line Marking Australia installs warning (dot) and directional (bar) TGSIs at stairs, ramps, crossings and doors, positioned exactly as the standard requires.
Tactile ground surface indicators aren't decorative. They're a navigation system for people who can't see. Get them wrong and you create confusion or danger for the people they're meant to help.
Warning tactiles (the dots) alert people to hazards like stairs, ramps, and road crossings. Directional tactiles (the bars) guide people along paths. The spacing, positioning, and colour contrast all matter.
We installed TGSIs at a shopping centre in Preston where the previous contractor had placed warning tactiles too far from the stairs. A vision-impaired visitor stepped past the warning zone and fell on the stairs. The centre faced legal action.
We removed the incorrectly placed tactiles and reinstalled at the correct 300mm setback specified in AS/NZS 1428.4.1. The standard exists for good reason.
Tactiles usually form part of a wider access upgrade. See our tactile ground surface indicator installation, stair nosings and luminance contrast and accessible parking line marking pages. Accessible car parking is set out under AS/NZS 2890.6:2009.
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Compliance Standards
AS/NZS 1428.4.1:2009
Primary standard specifying TGSI types, dimensions, placement, and luminance contrast requirements.
AS 1428.1
General requirements for access and mobility including where TGSIs are required in accessible routes.
AS 4586
Slip resistance requirements for tactile indicators in wet and dry conditions.
Building Code of Australia
References AS/NZS 1428 standards for access requirements in building design and construction.
Disability Discrimination Act 1992
Legal requirement for accessible facilities including correct TGSI installation.
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AS/NZS 1428.4.1
Tactile Indicators
Sets the layout, size and luminance contrast of warning and directional tactile ground surface indicators.
AS 1428.1
Stair Nosings
Requires a contrasting nosing strip on each step, with at least 30% luminance contrast, so the edge is easy to see.
AS 4586
Slip Resistance
Defines slip resistance classifications (P rating) for pedestrian surfaces. Critical for wet areas, ramps, and high-traffic zones.
Premises Standards
Access to Buildings
The Disability (Access to Premises — Buildings) Standards 2010 and the NCC call up AS 1428 for new and upgraded buildings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Warning tactiles have raised dots (truncated cones) and alert to hazards. Directional tactiles have raised bars and guide along paths. Different patterns serve different purposes.
AS/NZS 1428.4.1 specifies 300mm setback from the hazard (top of stairs, edge of platform, etc.). This gives adequate warning distance.
They must provide minimum 30% luminance contrast with the surrounding surface. Yellow is common for hazard warning. The key is sufficient contrast for visibility.
Yes, surface-applied TGSIs can be adhesive-bonded or mechanically fixed to existing concrete, tiles, or pavers. We assess your surface and recommend the best method.
Quality polyurethane or stainless steel TGSIs typically last 10+ years in normal conditions. High-traffic areas may need earlier replacement.
AS/NZS 1428.4.1 specifies where TGSIs are required in accessible routes. Not every stair requires them, but those on accessible paths do. We assess your specific requirements.
Related Services
Anti-Slip Stair Nosings & Edge Painting
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Pedestrian Pathways Line Marking
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Slip Resistance Ratings
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Slip-Resistant Coatings
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Stair Nosings & Luminance Contrast
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Tactile Ground Surface Indicators
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