Fast-tracking ground markers a must for vision-impaired commuters, advocates say

Using public transport daily is an important part of being independent for Travis Ratsch, who is legally blind.

The white cane used says that is why tactile ground markers at bus stops and train stations are integral for his safety, helping him avoid danger.

"I don't want to rely on a support worker to drive me," he said.

Invented in 1960s by a Japan engineer, tactile ground surface indicators (TGSIs) are now used worldwide.

The coloured tiles are found at crosswalks, bus stops and train platforms, featuring raised lines to guide white cane users in straight lines, while dots signal approaching hazard.

Blind Citizens Australia national advocacy officer Martin Stewart said train station accidents could have serious consequences — something he lived with every day.

"I myself have been the victim of an accident, falling in between carriages," he said.

"The minute you are hesitant, the more accidents are likely to occur.

Mr Stewart said his accident was unrelated to tactile ground markers, but wanted their installation to be fast-tracked.

"It should be taken more seriously," he said.

Tactile pavers to be rolled out

The Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport were amended last month, which required operators and providers to comply to improve accessibility of their services.

A spokesperson for SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport said 74 of Adelaide Metro's 90 railway stations had TGSIs.

They said work was underway to progressively roll out TGSIs at the remaining 16 stations, with priority being considered alongside other public transport initiatives.

Trains and trams have until December 2032 to be fully compliant.

Adelaide University associate professor of law Sarah Moulds said the standards were "very important".

The national standards outline requirements for features like seating, ramps, paths and signage, and fall under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

"They're designed to say, 'If you do this, you're doing really well,'" Dr Moulds said.

"If you don't do it, then a question mark hangs over whether or not you've taken reasonable steps in the specific circumstances."

Community safety

Marino Rocks railway station — in Adelaide's south-west — is one of 16 in South Australia still without tactile paving.

Local business owner Kayne Ensten said his community had been calling for safety upgrades for several years.

He said it was "concerning" the platform lacked the raised markers.

"They're handy for the vision impaired, but also people standing around on their phones," he said.

"Good to know that you're near the edge of the platform, because it's quite a drop there."

"They should be put in straight away."

A department spokesperson said the installation of TGSIs at the Marino Rocks station was slated for 2027-2028.