Development of audible locating signals for use at pedestrian crossings

At light controlled crossings in several countries audible ticking sounds a re used to assist visually impaired pedestrians locate the control box so t hat they can readily request the crossing phase. A literature review has sh own that a wide range of sound signals are used for this purpose and it was concluded that further research was required to select a suitable locating sound for possible use in the UK. Laboratory studies were conducted to ass ist in the selection of suitable locating sounds which will not only be eas y to locate but also will not be readily confused with the "walk" signal or reversing alarms used by trucks and buses etc. There was also a need to as sess the possible annoying effects of such signals especially for residents or workers located close to the crossing. For this purpose a wide range of sounds which have potential as locating signals have been evaluated by pan els of sighted listeners so that the more annoying sounds can be screened o ut at an early stage. (C) 2000 Transport Research Laboratory. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.