Thursday, May 21, 2009
Leading the blind
Japan first began to use raised "bumps" in the floor as a guide for the blind and partially-sighted in 1967--the first country to do so.
They can now be found all over the country, in stations, public buildings, and on the sidewalk.
There is still no country-wide standard, but the basic designs are "dashes" to indicate direction, and "dots" to indicate warning, i.e. a change of direction, platform edge, etc.
A variety of materials are used, though a type of rubberised plastic is the most common. Metal is sometimes used.
I find them a fascinating source of composition in photographs.
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This is very interesting and something that should be done in other countries. When did this start? Have you seen people using it?
ReplyDeleteTotally cool.Very nice work. cjg of eroticalee
ReplyDeleteThere are similar leading systems for blind people in Germany. Practically all train stations and most cities have those bumps
ReplyDeleteNow that IS a coincidence, Ojisanjake! Fantastic photos, as ever. Thanks.
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