Easy Guide WCAG 2.2 Level AA Checklist

Before we dive into the WCAG 2.2 Level AA Checklist, it’s important to understand the POUR principles. POUR stands for:

• Perceivable: Make content available to users through their senses (sight, sound, or touch). For example, providing alt text for images or captions for videos.
• Operable: Ensure users can interact with the website using a variety of input devices, like keyboards or assistive technologies.
• Understandable: Content should be easy to read and navigate, and help users avoid or correct mistakes.
• Robust: Make sure your website works across different browsers, devices, and assistive tools to ensure accessibility for everyone.

WCAG 2.2 Level AA Checklist:

Perceivable:

• 1.1 Text Alternatives: All images (including icons and infographics) must have descriptive alternative text (alt text) so users with visual impairments can understand them.
• 1.2 Media Alternatives: Provide captions, transcripts, or audio descriptions for all video and audio content. This ensures accessibility for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• 1.3 Adaptable Content: Ensure content can be easily resized or reformatted (e.g., for screen readers or magnifiers). Avoid fixed layouts that can’t be resized.
• 1.4 Distinguishable Text: Text must have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background. Text size should be adjustable without breaking the layout.

Operable:

• 2.1 Keyboard Accessible: Ensure all functionality (e.g., forms, buttons, links) is accessible using the keyboard alone. Avoid content that requires specific mouse actions.
• 2.2 Enough Time: Provide users with enough time to read and interact with content. If there is a time limit (e.g., form submissions), allow users to extend it.
• 2.3 Seizures: Avoid flashing content that flashes more than three times in one second, as it can trigger seizures in people with epilepsy.
• 2.4 Navigable: Allow users to navigate the site using keyboard shortcuts, and ensure that navigation is consistent across pages. Provide “skip to content” links to bypass repetitive elements.

Understandable:

• 3.1 Readable Text: Use clear and simple language. Where technical terms are necessary, provide explanations or a glossary.
• 3.2 Predictable: Pages should behave consistently, especially in navigation and interaction. Users should know what to expect when interacting with the site.
• 3.3 Help Users Avoid Mistakes: Form fields should be clearly labeled. If a user makes an error (e.g., incorrect entry), provide helpful instructions for correction.

Robust:

• 4.1 Compatible: Ensure the website works across different browsers, devices, and assistive technologies. Follow standard HTML/CSS practices to maximize compatibility.
• 4.2 Valid Code: Use clean, valid code (HTML5, ARIA roles) that adheres to standards, ensuring that browsers and assistive technologies can interpret it correctly.

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