Accessible PDF
An Accessible PDF (Portable Document Format) is designed to be usable by people with various disabilities, including visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, language, learning, and neurological disabilities. Below are the key characteristics that qualify a PDF as accessible:
1. Tagged Structure
The document includes tags to define the
logical reading order and structure, such as headings, lists, tables, and other
elements.
2. Alternative Text for Images
All images, graphics, and non-text
content have alternative text (alt text) that provides a description or context
for users who cannot see them.
3. Proper Use of Headings
Headings are used to organize content
logically and are marked with appropriate heading tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.).
4. Readable Text
Text can be read by screen readers, and
is not embedded as images or in a way that screen readers cannot interpret.
5. Navigable Links
Hyperlinks are clear and descriptive,
making it easy for users to navigate through the document.
6. Form Fields
Interactive form fields are accessible
and include labels, tooltips, and tab order for easy navigation.
7. Consistent and Logical Structure
The document structure is consistent and
logical, making it easy to navigate and understand.
8. Metadata
The document includes metadata, such as the document title, language, and other
pertinent information.
9. Colour Contrast
Text and background colour contrast meet accessibility standards, ensuring
readability for users with visual impairments.
10. Language Specification
The primary language of the document is specified so that screen readers can
accurately interpret the text.
11. No Use of Colour Alone
Colour is not the only means of
conveying information, so users who cannot distinguish colours can still
understand the content.
12. Tables
Tables are properly tagged with headers,
ensuring that data is read correctly by screen readers.
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