USE OF HIGH-CONTRAST MARKINGS AT RAIL CROSSINGS IN THE DESIGN OF URBAN STREETS AND ROADS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31649/2311-1429-2025-2-156-164Keywords:
contrast markings, road design, railway crossing, barrier-free environment, urban space; visual contrast; tactile elements; international standards; universal design.Abstract
The article examines the use of contrast marking at track crossings in urban spaces as a means of improving pedestrian safety and developing a barrier-free environment. An analysis of international practices in the countries of the European Union, Scotland, Canada, the United States, Japan, and Australia was conducted, where the use of color, textured, and reflective contrasts is regulated at the normative level. It has been established that the effectiveness of such marking is determined by a combination of optical and material characteristics that provide clear visual orientation and comfortable movement for all population groups, including people with visual impairments.
Particular attention is given to the economic aspects of implementing high-contrast solutions, as international studies show that reducing the number of incidents at track crossings directly correlates with decreased costs for medical treatment of injuries, infrastructure repairs, and compensation payments, and also indirectly contributes to improving the efficiency of urban mobility.
The study identifies that Ukrainian legislation insufficiently regulates issues related to contrast marking. Existing documents, such as DBN V.2.3-5:2018 “Streets and Roads of Settlements” and DSTU 4100:2021 “Road Safety. Road Signs,” only partially define requirements for the arrangement of track crossings. There are no clear standards regarding the parameters of color contrast, the combination of visual and tactile elements, or criteria for assessing the effectiveness of their application.
The research demonstrates the feasibility of adapting international standards to national conditions, taking into account climatic, technological, and social factors. Applying such approaches would make it possible to form a modern system of regulatory frameworks aimed at improving pedestrian safety, enhancing visual navigation, and advancing universal design in urban planning.
The results of the study may be used in updating national standards and developing guidelines for the arrangement of track crossings within projects aimed at creating a barrier-free urban environment, as well as for formulating economically sound solutions in the field of transport infrastructure.
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