Accessibility in focus.
8 October 2025
Accessibility in focus – contrast markings make a difference in everyday life.
Accessibility is no longer an additional issue in urban planning and real estate projects – it is an integral part of a sustainable society. More and more property owners, municipalities and contractors realize the importance of creating environments where all people can move safely and independently, regardless of age or disability. At Safestep, we work daily with solutions that contribute to this – including contrast markings and tactile pathways that help people with visual impairments to orient themselves safely in public environments.
Real-life examples.
Yesterday, we were on site outside an ICA store in Uppsala, where we installed contrast dots on stairs and ramps. Several passers-by – especially elderly people with visual impairments – stopped to express their appreciation. “This really makes a difference. Now you can see where the stairs start!” Such reactions remind us why accessibility is about more than compliance – it’s about quality of life, safety and independence for thousands of people every day.
Laws and recommendations.
According to the Swedish Building Regulations (BBR) and the Planning and Building Act (PBL), public buildings and outdoor environments must be accessible and usable for people with reduced mobility or orientation. This means, among other things, that stairs, ramps and level differences must have clear contrast markings to reduce the risk of accidents and facilitate orientation for people with visual impairments. The Swedish Agency for Participation (MFD) also recommends visual contrasts and tactile markings in transitions, entrances and walkways as a central part of universal design – that is, design that works for everyone, without the need for special adaptations.
Our contrast markings, tactile pathways and anti-slip devices are designed to combine safety, function and aesthetics, helping to meet accessibility and safety requirements in both new and existing environments.
By choosing the right solutions from the start, property owners, architects, municipalities and construction companies can not only meet legal requirements – but also contribute to a society where more people feel included and safe. Want to know more about how contrast markings can improve accessibility in your projects? Contact us at Safestep – we will help you find the right solution for each environment.
