Videos
Before You Create a Video
Captions
All videos should include accurate captions.
- Captions must be synchronized with spoken content.
- Automatically generated captions should be reviewed and corrected for accuracy.
- Include speaker identification when appropriate.
- Include important sound effects when they contribute to understanding.
Transcripts
Provide a transcript whenever possible.
- Transcripts benefit users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- Transcripts assist users who prefer reading content.
- Include all spoken dialogue and relevant audio information.
Audio Quality
Ensure audio is clear and understandable.
- Minimize background noise.
- Use a microphone when possible.
- Speak clearly and at a reasonable pace.
Visual Content
Do not rely solely on visual information.
- Important information shown on screen should also be spoken aloud.
- Charts, graphs, and demonstrations should be described verbally.
- Avoid using color alone to convey meaning.
Text and Graphics
Use accessible text and graphics.
- Ensure sufficient color contrast.
- Use readable font sizes.
- Keep on-screen text visible long enough to be read.
Video Players
Use accessible video players whenever possible.
- Support keyboard navigation.
- Allow captions to be enabled and disabled.
- Work with screen readers and assistive technology.
Before Publishing Your Video
Verify that:
- Captions are included and accurate.
- Audio is clear.
- Important visual information is described verbally.
- Text is readable and high contrast.
- The video can be accessed using a keyboard.
- Any accompanying documents are accessible.
Checklist
Check each item below before posting a video. If an item does not comply, use the “How to comply” guidance.
Does the video comply?
Accessibility criteria
How to comply
Reference
The video has accurate captions.
Add captions for all spoken words. Review and correct auto-generated captions before posting.
WCAG 1.2.2 (Captions Prerecorded), Section 508
Captions are synchronized with the audio.
Make sure captions appear at the same time as the spoken words or important sounds.
WCAG 1.2.2 (Captions Prerecorded)
Important sounds are included in the captions.
Include meaningful sounds such as applause, music, alarms, or laughter when they help explain the video.
WCAG 1.2.2 (Captions Prerecorded)
Speaker changes are identified when needed.
Identify speakers in the captions when more than one person is talking and it is not clear who is speaking.
WCAG 1.2.2 (Captions Prerecorded)
A transcript is provided when possible.
Provide a written transcript that includes spoken words and important audio information.
WCAG 1.2.1 (Audio-only and Video-only Prerecorded)
Important visual information is described.
Speak important visual details aloud, such as names, charts, demonstrations, or text shown on screen.
WCAG 1.2.3 (Audio Description or Media Alternative)
Text shown on screen is readable.
Use large, clear text and keep it on screen long enough for viewers to read.
WCAG 1.4.3 (Contrast Minimum)
Text and graphics have enough contrast.
Use strong contrast between text, graphics, and the background.
WCAG 1.4.3 (Contrast Minimum), WCAG 1.4.11 (Non-text Contrast)
Color is not the only way information is shared.
Use labels, patterns, text, or spoken explanations in addition to color.
WCAG 1.4.1 (Use of Color)
The audio is clear and easy to understand.
Reduce background noise, use a microphone when possible, and speak clearly.
WCAG 1.4.7 (Low or No Background Audio)
The video player can be used with a keyboard.
Make sure users can play, pause, adjust volume, and turn captions on or off without using a mouse.
WCAG 2.1.1 (Keyboard)
The video does not include flashing content that could cause seizures.
Avoid flashing content. Do not use content that flashes more than three times per second.
WCAG 2.3.1 (Three Flashes or Below Threshold)


