Transport for NSW (TfNSW) - Train station Accessibility Upgrades

Project Background:

Sydney Trains, operated by Transport for NSW (TfNSW), is the suburban passenger rail network serving the city of Sydney. The network is a hybrid suburban-commuter rail system with a central underground core that currently covers over 815 km of track and 178 stations over eight lines.

Transport for NSW (TfNSW), was seeking a full Braille and Tactile signage solution for a variety of train station Wayfinding accessibility upgrades across the extensive NSW Train network.  BTS (Aust) consulted with TfNSW to develop a cost effective and highly durable sign design and finish specification for the project’s requirements.

Design considerations:

With thousands of commuters catching trains every day, Braille and Tactile signage needed be designed to withstand the harshest of high traffic environments, in which vandal risk factors were significant. Working closely with TfNSW and other stakeholders, BTS (Aust) developed a solution utilising the Industry Leading Continuous Surface Fully Encapsulated Polycarbonate technology. With no ‘add-ons’ stuck to the face of the sign that can be easily picked off, and all graphics, text and colours protected behind a clear Continuous Surface Membrane, TfNSW could rest easy knowing their Braille Tactile Signs were up to the challenge of their demanding high traffic environment.  

All BTS (Aust) Continuous Surface Braille Tactile Signs supplied were also treated with an additional UV and Anti-Graffiti coating to add additional protection against both weather and vandal factors.

BTS (Aust) Solution and Outcomes

BTS (Aust) developed a completely unique set of sign toolings for TfNSW. Signs were manufactured utilising the Continuous Surface Braille & Tactile Polycarbonate Technology, and supplied to TfNSW on 5mm aluminium backings complete with hidden fixings. BTS (Aust) continues to work with TfNSW and other relevant stakeholders to deliver Braille and Tactile Signage solutions for the continuing train station upgrades. To date, over 3,000 signs have been supplied.