Slips, falls and stuck wheels: Residents raise concerns over tactile tiles in HDB estates

Residents in HDB estates are raising concerns over the safety of tactile tiles, following the Land Transport Authority's (LTA) announcement to replace them at pedestrian crossings. Madam Sim, a 54-year-old resident from Sengkang, fell on tactile tiles two years ago and ended up in the hospital, prompting her to avoid the yellow tiles since.

The LTA aims to replace the current tiles at all signalised pedestrian crossings over the next four years with more slip-resistant versions. However, Mdm Sim hopes a similar review will be carried out for tactile tiles in HDB estates, which are maintained by town councils.

Ms Venecia Ng, 40, slipped on wet tactile tiles at a Thomson Road crossing, fracturing her ankle and ultimately dying from surgery complications. LTA had already revised the tile layout in April 2024, increasing the gaps between tiles to reduce slip risks in wet conditions while still guiding visually impaired individuals. However, the replacement program only applies to pedestrian crossings under the LTA's jurisdiction, not the tactile tiles in HDB estates.

Chinatown resident Loh Siew Zhu, 69, expressed concern about the raised bumps on tactile tiles catching her shopping trolley wheels, especially in rainy weather. Another Chinatown resident, Mdm Ng, reported that her trolley often gets stuck on the tiles, causing issues for elderly wheelchair users. Bedok residents also avoid tactile tiles due to their uneven surfaces, preferring to steer clear of them.

HDB maintains that tactile tiles are required by the Building and Construction Authority's (BCA) code on accessibility, ensuring buildings are safe for people with different needs. The tiles alert visually impaired people to potential hazards and require anti-slip treatment to remain safe in wet conditions. HDB stated that they have received no adverse feedback on tactile tiles in commercial complexes and are aware of the LTA's ongoing replacement program.