Improving Accessibility With Clear Pathway Markings

Our cities and towns seem to be more dangerous for pedestrians than ever these days. And it’s not just the ever larger volumes of traffic on the roads that are the problem – it’s also the cyclists, e-scooters, e-bikes and mobility scooters that are being used on pavements and other walkways where pedestrians used to feel safe.

Sometimes it feels like you need the same level of awareness when walking through busy areas as you would if you were behind the wheel. But it’s not just urban environments that require thought – rural areas and country parks can also be difficult for some users to negotiate.

Given all this, it’s important for those managing these areas to provide key information to all pathway users in the form of clear and effective pathway markings.

In this article, the Northern Marking team is going to explore how these pathway markings can improve both safety and accessibility for all those using our paths and walkways.

What are pathway markings?

In the same way that markings on our roads provide important information to drivers – such as lane guidance, speed restrictions or approaching hazards – so pathway markings can do the same for pedestrians, cyclists and others who are on the move.

Pathway markings come in a wide variety of types, including words that provide specific instructions, arrows that indicate directions, and pictures identifying when cyclists, pedestrians or wheelchair users have priority.

Key benefits of pathway markings

Well-designed and carefully laid-out pathway markings bring numerous benefits. These include:

Improving accessibility and independence for all those using the pathways – a key element of the Equality Act 2010.
Minimising the potential for collisions and accidents by helping people to be aware of potential hazards.
Clearly indicating priorities so that everyone knows when and where they are able to proceed and when they need to stop and take extra care.
Providing safe areas and routes for those with special needs, such as wheelchair users and those with young children.

Best practice for pathway markings

In order to ensure your pathway markings do the job you want them to, there are certain best practices you should follow not only during planning and installation but also as long as they are considered useful. These include:

Taking time to think about where to position your markings so that they are immediately evident to those whose attention you are trying to catch.
Using clear and durable materials to make sure your markings are always there to keep people safe.
Introducing a programme of regular maintenance to ensure your markings remain clear and effective at all times. This should include a rapid response in the event of wear and tear or damage that reduces the clarity or effectiveness of the markings.

Pathway marking specialists

Here at Northern Marking, we specialise in providing road and pathway marking services that are designed to be clear, effective and long-lasting. We always use the latest materials and can provide long-term maintenance and repair services when required.

Northern Marking is based in Manchester, but provides services to clients in the following areas; Huddersfield, Blackburn, Rochdale, Preston, Warrington, Bolton, Stockport, Leeds, Wakefield, Chester, Harrogate, Blackpool, Wigan, Liverpool, Burnley and beyond. Northern Marking is a leading road marking company, providing the following services; line marking, school & playground markings, warehouse markings, electric car parking space marking, line removal, white lining and car park markings.

Get in touch with us now to find out more or to ask for a free site survey.