Products & Systems / QuartzGrip®
GRP tactile plates & surfaces
A recognisable surface.
A clear purpose.
Surface-mounted tactile plates for planned access improvements. Select the pattern, colour and layout around the location and the information the route needs to convey.
Three product patterns
Choose by purpose.
Confirm the application.
The patterns shown in the Vital reference are different product routes. Confirm the required type before discussing quantities or colours.
Pedestrian crossing points
In-line blister
Used at designated pedestrian crossings. The crossing type determines the appropriate layout and colour.
Off-street platform edges
Offset blister
Used to warn of off-street rail platform edges. On-street tram platforms use a different warning surface.
Specific hazard warnings
Corduroy
Used for hazards such as steps and level crossings. It is not a general treatment for every ramp.
Application summaries follow the DfT guidance on tactile paving surfaces. Use its complete layout guidance and the relevant authority requirements for the location.
Design before product selection
Put the pattern
in the right place.
Prepare a setting-out plan that identifies the purpose of each tactile area. Coordinate the proposal with the wider access design and the organisation responsible for the route.
Location & function
Identify the crossing, stair, platform or other feature being addressed. Include the surrounding approach and adjacent routes in the drawing.
Pattern & orientation
State the exact tactile type and its intended orientation. Keep the product schedule aligned with the accepted layout.
Colour & surroundings
Specify colour and required contrast against the adjacent surface. Review lighting and material samples in the actual setting.
Extent & interfaces
Dimension the treatment area and its relationship to the feature. Coordinate boundaries, drainage, covers and adjoining finishes.
Design coordination
Confirm the accepted detail with the responsible designer and asset owner. Identify any rail, highway or estate-specific requirements before ordering.
Surface-mounted plates are a product option within an access design. A plate alone cannot establish compliance for the whole route.
Specify the supplied plate
Check the product
against the drawing.
Ask for current product details and a sample where needed. Record the chosen plate identity so procurement, installation and inspection refer to the same item.
Dimensions & profile
Confirm plate dimensions, overall thickness and the tactile profile. Compare the supplied product information with the project specification.
Surface evidence
Request relevant slip information for the actual finish and use. Consider contamination, weather and the surrounding walking surface.
Colour & availability
Confirm the specified colour and any measured contrast requirements. Do not substitute a different pattern or colour solely because it is available.
Fixing & substrate
Identify concrete, paving, timber, steel or another base. Agree preparation, adhesive and mechanical fixing requirements for the exact arrangement.
Installation & ongoing care
Preserve the detail
through installation.
Use the accepted setting-out drawing and current product instructions. Protect the work and coordinate access until the installed surface is ready for use.
Before fitting
Check the substrate is sound and suitable. Confirm the layout, product pattern, colour and orientation against the accepted information.
Edges & attachment
Follow the specified fixing method and curing conditions. Check the perimeter, joints and seating so the overlay does not introduce loose or lifting edges.
Completion checks
Inspect the installed arrangement against the drawing. Record any changes and resolve discrepancies before handover.
Maintenance
Keep the surface clean and inspect attachment, wear and damage. Retain product details so replacement work can match the accepted arrangement.
Guidance & project information
Bring the route
and the specification.
Send the proposed tactile layout, photographs and substrate information. Identify the approving authority and any product or installation requirements.
DfT tactile guidance
Read the full guidance for the relevant surface and location.
Explore →Technical consultation
Discuss the plate, samples and information required for selection.
Explore →Assurance Centre
Request current product and installation evidence.
Explore →
Keep the accepted layout with the product record.
Include pattern, colour, setting-out details and the agreed fixing method.
Questions about tactile plates.
Are the patterns interchangeable?
No. Select the specified pattern for the intended application and keep it consistent with the accepted setting-out information.
Can we choose colour only for appearance?
Colour forms part of the specification. Confirm the location-specific requirements and contrast before selecting or substituting a product.
Do surface-mounted plates need excavation?
They are an overlay route, but the substrate still needs assessment and appropriate preparation. Confirm the installation detail and surrounding levels.
What information should we send?
Provide the layout, location, pattern, dimensions, colour and substrate details. Include photographs and the relevant project or authority requirements.
Can a damaged plate be replaced?
Identify the original product and accepted detail. Review the substrate and fixing condition, then agree a matching replacement and installation method.
Specify the tactile detail.
Send the route layout.
Share the accepted design intent and site information. Ask Vital to review product selection and the installation requirements.