Gold Standard

When it comes to Braille Tactile Signs, Australian Standards provide the framework, but true accessibility is achieved when a wayfinding system genuinely supports independence, clarity, and confidence for all people.

 

At BTS Aust., we have always prioritised quality and usability. Our signs are designed to empower independence and provide a seamless navigation experience for end users, particularly those who are blind or have low vision.

Where Compliance Meets Reality

A sign can technically meet the Standards and still fail in practice or over time. Common issues across the industry include:

• Tactile characters and Braille that wear away over time
• Signs incorrectly positioned resulting in confusion
• Poor contrast in varying lighting conditions
• Insufficient wayfinding signs to support a safe and effective path of travel

Non-Compliance Awareness

• Inconsistent terminology or incorrect Braille
• Insufficient Luminance Contrast
• Braille that is too shallow or too large to read
• Non-compliant Designs

What the Gold Standard Looks Like

Our BTS Aust. Gold Standard is a commitment to durability, clarity, and long-term performance, a standard we’ve maintained for nearly 25 years, as leaders in accessible wayfinding. Going beyond compliance, our high-quality Braille Tactile Signs ensure information is clear and usable for those who rely on touch as well as sight.

This means:

• Precision Manufacturing: Braille and Tactile characters designed to withstand heavy use, cleaning, weathering, and time.
• Expertise: Knowledge of AS 1428.1 and AS 1428.4.2, and the intent behind them.
• Consistency Across a Project: Uniform Braille and Tactile standards, ensuring a seamless end-user experience.
• Real-World Performance: Products that hold up to rigorous daily use without compromising usability.

Organisations, architects, and access consultants specify our BTS products with confidence that the end result works as intended.

Why It Matters

Universal wayfinding is more than a compliance requirement; it’s a vital part of the building experience, directly contributing to safety, independence, and dignity. Well-designed systems:

• Reduce long-term maintenance costs
• Minimise avoidable compliance risks
• Enhance accessibility and independence for all users, especially those who are blind or have low vision, through functional, high-quality signage

Looking Ahead

As expectations around universal design and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) continue to evolve, accessible wayfinding must go beyond minimum requirements. It must perform reliably, consistently, and inclusively.

Australian Standards set the baseline, the BTS Aust. Gold Standard is the benchmark.

If you’d like guidance on specifying accessible wayfinding and Braille Tactile Signs for your next project, the friendly BTS Aust. Client Relations team are here to help, please call us on 1800 787 287.