An informative study on the white cane has been developed in collaboration with Liepāja University
In co-operation with the project of social inclusion of non-governmental organisations financed by the city of Liepāja, “Palīdzēsim cits citam iedrošinot un praktiski atbalstot” No. 26/2.8.5. an informative study was carried out in co-operation with Liepāja University, regarding conformity and change of colour of the aid (white cane) for blind people.
The research was launched because holding street promotions for motorists for more than 20 years often sparks a lack of visibility for the white cane. Also, in winter conditions, the white cane is not well visible, as well as in conditions of bright light and fog. Yellow in the world poles, first and last steps, glass doors etc are marked everywhere. The yellow colour is noticeable and stands out of context and is also a warning to everyone.
The white cane dates back to Britain, when artist Džeims Bigs suffered an accident and lost sight. Aware of the dangers of traffic, the artist painted a walking cane white to make it easier to spot. In 1931, on the other hand, a French newspaper published a suggestion that blind people use only a white-coloured cane, which would serve as a warning sign for drivers. The United States of America Congress in 1964 approved the idea of declaring Oct.15 each year as White walking stick day. As time goes by, however, these days people with disabilities themselves have realised that a yellow paint cane would give a greater sense of security and recognition.
In collaboration with Liepāja University, a study was conducted to replace the white cane with yellow, posted to RAL 1,021 tone.
Main results of the study:
1) in summer conditions in the urban environment, the contrast is slightly higher on average for a white cane;
2) in winter the contrast is significantly higher for the yellow cane;
3) public awareness in identifying a cane of another (non-white) colour with a sign of recognition of a visually impaired person should be assessed as conservative;
4) the introduction of the yellow cane will require a great deal of explaining, familiarisation and promotion work;
5) the yellow cane is more visible in the urban environment.
Liepāja University has made the following recommendations following the results of the study:
• The yellow shade of RAL1021 which was used in the study does not offer a significant improvement in summer conditions compared to the white shade. It's a good idea to change it to a brighter and more prominent, so-called “electro-yellow” shade of colour (like the HEX code #FFFF33).
• Given that in the territory of Latvia road transport moves exclusively with the near/daylights on, it is recommended to equip the walking stick with light reflective elements. Such elements are available both in a hard case and in the form of thin flexible labels. The reflective elements may be positioned in both the longitudinal direction and the circumference of the cane. Practical suggestion: to affix the cane with a reflective label along the circle at the bottom end and in 2 more places every 30 cm. The effect will not only be seen at night (in total darkness or in city street lighting) but also at dusk time.
• Technically today's technologies allow the cane to be fitted with radiant elements of various colours, including flashing (LEDs). It is recommended to use a 3.7 V lithium-ion battery in the handle to feed the system, one charge of which will be enough for several weeks of short-term walks.
• It is also possible to equip the walking stick with an audible warning tone that will allow the user to feel unhindered on narrow pavements, at pedestrian crossings, on public transport and in supermarkets.
Financed by the City of Liepāja municipality
Social inclusion Project of non-governmental organisations
“Palīdzēsim cits citam iedrošinot un praktiski atbalstot”
Nr.26/2.8.5.