Development of audible locating signals for use at pedestrian crossings

At light controlled crossings in several countries audible ticking sounds are used to assist visually impaired pedestrians locate the control box so that they can readily request the crossing phase. A literature review has shown 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 assist in the selection of suitable locating sounds which will not only be easy 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 assess 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 panels of sighted listeners so that the more annoying sounds can be screened out at an early stage.