At the outset of the guideline introduced in February 2021 for the traffic-related securing of work sites on roads (RSA 21), it is emphasized that the needs of people with disabilities must be taken into account. Specifically mentioned are blind individuals, people with visual, physical, and hearing impairments, as well as individuals of short stature. However, this Enumeration is not exhaustive.
The focus on accessibility and inclusion for all individuals challenges industry innovators to develop and provide corresponding inclusive products. According to the groundbreaking guideline RSA 21, the use of acoustic blind signal technology on mobile traffic lights is mandatory, among other requirements.
Subsequently, FABEMA® developed the FABEMA® BLINA, a mobile blind information and navigation system designed for altered situations in everyday life (such as construction sites, closures, diversions – on roads, at airports, in shopping centers, train stations and all other areas of public life). This system provides auditory guidance to inform and navigate blind or visually impaired individuals through voice output.
FABEMA® BLINA is more than just a simple Information system. The special development for immediate use with simple installation and programming makes it possible to quickly create solutions to ensure accessibility even in changing circumstances.
- Speech output: AI-generated, individual, language-independent
- Ambient noise adaptation of the sound output
- Automatic activation through the LOC.id APP or the LOC.id hand-held transmitter
LOC.id operates in the background, allowing for hands-free operation, and uses Bluetooth to search for applications like FABEMA® BLINA that respond upon approach. This involves increasing the volume of the locating signal when the visually impaired individual approaches from a distance, and playing the pre-configured free text when the person is in close proximity.
LOC.id is a manufacturer- and platform-independent technology that is increasingly being utilized and finding a wide range of applications. This includes stationary and mobile traffic lights, elevators, information, and guidance systems in public buildings, and much more. FABEMA® BLINA enables blind and visually impaired individuals to participate in society and navigate through construction sites autonomously and safely, promoting self-determination and inclusion.
FABEMA® collaborates closely with the affected individuals to create barrier-free construction sites for all people with disabilities in the future. "FABEMA® has had the unique needs of people with disabilities explained to us in our conversations. With regard to establishing a safe construction site, it quickly became evident that there is significant need for action within the industry," explains a woman who has been depent on a wheelchair since birth. As part of the significant changes accompanying the introduction of RSA 21, Mr. Peter Tesch, the CEO of FABEMA®, gains a detailed understanding of the challenges and obstacles on conventional construction sites through personal exchanges. She was able to immediately highlight which product developments are important and which have not been fully considered.
During the cooperation the following motto was established: "Convince instead of persuade!" It is important not to talk ABOUT people, but WITH people. This is the only way to create the necessary awareness and learn to take better care of each other," Mr. Peter Tesch summarises.
Post: FABEMA® GmbH