Accessibility Checklist: Video and Audio Content
Bobby Bailey
How to Make Multimedia Content Inclusive for Everyone
Videos and audio content must be accessible to people who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or have cognitive disabilities. Use this checklist to ensure multimedia is usable for all.
10-Point Accessible Video and Audio Content Checklist
Number one: Provide accurate captions for all videos
Captions should be synchronized, accurate, and descriptive. Auto-generated captions should be reviewed and corrected for accuracy.
Number two: Include transcripts for audio and video content
Transcripts should include dialogue, speaker names, and important sounds. Provide a text version of podcasts, webinars, and other audio-based media.
Number three: Ensure videos have audio descriptions
If a video contains essential visual information (charts, gestures, etc.), provide an audio description track. Ensure audio descriptions can be toggled on and off.
Number four: Do not auto-play audio or video
People should be able to start and stop playback manually. If autoplay is necessary, include an easy-to-find pause button.
Number five: Provide keyboard-accessible media controls
All video and audio controls (play, pause, volume, captions) must be fully keyboard accessible. The Tab key should navigate through all controls in a logical order.
Number six: Use clear and visible controls
Media controls should have high contrast and large clickable areas. Ensure controls do not disappear too quickly or require a mouse to activate.
Number seven: Ensure media players support assistive technology
Test with screen readers to verify controls are properly labeled. Ensure focus does not get lost when interacting with media elements.
Number eight: Avoid flashing content
Videos should not flash more than three times per second to prevent seizures. Use the Photosensitive Epilepsy Analysis Tool (PEAT) to test for seizure risks.
Number nine: Allow speed and volume adjustments
Provide options to slow down playback for people with cognitive disabilities. Ensure volume controls do not override system settings.
Number ten: Test media content with multiple assistive technologies
Use screen readers like NVDA, JAWS, or VoiceOver to check player accessibility. Test with keyboard navigation, reduced motion settings, and high contrast mode.