Special floor markings to improve safety

From the beginning of September 2021, so-called ‘tactile-visual guidelines’ have increased safety for blind and visually impaired people. These floor markings enable a seamless guide between Cham railway station and the bus station.

When interacting with road traffic, pedestrians are often dependent on the ability to quickly perceive, assess and react. Disabled persons, and especially the visually impaired and blind people, are limited in their perceptive ability. Clear orientation elements are therefore crucial for their independence and mobility.

The corresponding tactile-visual guidelines have so far been missing in the area of the Cham bus station, according to a statement from the municipality. These have now been added. And, with their so-called ‘attention fields’, they provide a better orientation within the bus station area. In addition, entrance markings on the bus platforms enable the appropriate entry position for the various buses to be found. "It is very important that we do not exclude anyone in public spaces due to impaired mobility," said Drin Alaj, head of traffic and safety of the municipality of Cham, in the statement. "That’s why we very much appreciate the excellent cooperation with all the parties involved, and are happy to be able to make another important contribution in this regard." The new guideline system was defined in close cooperation with the Central Switzerland Visual Impairment Unit, the SBB and the Office for Space and Transport of the Canton of Zug.

New tactile-visual floor markings create a safe orientation aid for blind and visually impaired people in the Cham bus station area.
Image: PD

Safety at the traffic hub increased
At the same time as the work in the area of the bus station, the SBB has completed its guideline system for Platform 1. This has created a comprehensive orientation aid for blind and visually impaired people, explains Mattia Forni from the SBB: "The safety and satisfaction of all customers is important to us. Thanks to the good cooperation with the canton of Zug and the municipality of Cham, we have achieved an optimal result that brings important added-value for blind and visually impaired people." The implementation of the tactile-visual guidelines is also important for Government Councillor (Regierungsrat) Florian Weber: "We regularly exchange views with the respective organisations in terms of obstacle-free construction and planning. I’m very pleased that the safety for blind and visually impaired people at the Cham station transport hub has now been increased in an uncomplicated and effective way through the combined work of all the responsible parties," says the construction director.