Luminance Testing

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This test method (Appendix B3 of AS 1428.1) can be conducted in both the dry and wet condition. A tristimulus colorimeter is used to provide a luminous reflectance value (LRV or Y) on the building element material at its geometric centre (some non-uniform coloured surfaces may require testing in other locations on the sample).  

LRV test costs of Building Elements start from $200 + GST (AUD). See our service costs for more information. 

Building elements are defined materials used as part of the design for access and mobility, these are set out by AS 1428.1 and with respect to luminance contrast include, 

• Visual indicators on glazing
• Stair nosing
• Stair edging strip
• Doorways (door, door jamb, wall, architrave)
• Accessible toilet seat

This test method (Appendix E3 of AS 1428.4.1) can be conducted in both the dry and wet condition. A tristimulus colorimeter is used to provide a luminous reflectance value (LRV or Y) on the TGSI at the top of the truncated surface. 

LRV test costs of TGSIs start from $200 + GST (AUD). See our service costs for more information. 

TGSIs (or Tactile Ground Surface Indicators), are the raised, textured ground surface features seen on footpaths, train stations, building entrances, and stairways. They are designed to provide important cues for people who are blind or have low vision, helping them to navigate safely and independently.

There are two (2) main types of TGSIs, 

• Warning - dome shaped raised studs arranged in a grid, used to warn of hazards such as the edge of a train platform, top and bottom of stairs, or a road crossing.
• Directional - parallel bars/ strips/ ribs, used to provide a directional cue, guiding people safely along a path or to a destination like a lift, entry, or crossing point.
   

This test method (Appendix B4 of AS 1428.1 or Appendix E4 of AS 1428.4.1) can be conducted in both the dry and wet condition. Two (2) materials are to be compared to one another by their LRVs 

Luminance Contrast Determination costs start from $100 + GST (AUD). See our service costs for more information. 

This test method (Appendix B5 of AS 1428.1 or Appendix E5 of AS 1428.4.1 - currently not included in our NATA scope of accreditation), can be conducted in both the dry and wet condition. A photometer is used to provide a luminous reflectance value (Y) from the material in the environment it is located (taking in ambient lighting conditions). 

Luminance Contrast Assessment costs start from $350 + GST (AUD). See our service costs for more information. 

The National Construction Code (NCC) specifies a number of key elements that are required to achieved luminance contrast, these include, 

• Signs on doors
• Braille and tactile signs
• Signs for Fire Control Rooms
• Toilet seats in accessible adult change facilities
• Door and door controls buttons 
• Obstacles (any) that abut an accessway in Public Transport Buildings

When needing to conduct tests for luminance contrast to satisfy and comply with the NCC, feel free to call us anytime. 

The testing scope may require testing with the tristimulus colorimeter or the photometer, in either case, its advised that you first make contact with our team to confirm a scope to determine appropriate costs.