Section 508

Web-based Intranet and Internet Information and Applications (1194.22)
The criteria for web-based technology and information are based on access guidelines developed by the Web Accessibility Initiative of the World Wide Web Consortium. Many of these provisions ensure access for people with vision impairments who rely on various assistive products to access computer-based information, such as screen readers, which translate what's on a computer screen into automated audible output, and refreshable Braille displays. Certain conventions, such as verbal tags or identification of graphics and format devices, like frames, are necessary so that these devices can "read" them for the user in a sensible way.'

 

The standards do not prohibit the use of web site graphics or animation. Instead, the standards aim to ensure that such information is also available in an accessible format. Generally, this means use of text labels or descriptors for graphics and certain format elements. (HTML code already provides an "Alt Text" tag for graphics which can serve as a verbal descriptor for graphics). This section also addresses the usability of multimedia presentations, image maps, style sheets, scripting languages, applets and plug-ins, and electronic forms.

 

The standards apply to Federal web sites but not to private sector web sites (unless a site is provided under contract to a Federal agency, in which case only that web site or portion covered by the contract would have to comply). Accessible sites offer significant advantages that go beyond access. For example, those with "text-only" options provide a faster downloading alternative and can facilitate transmission of web-based data to cell phones and personal digital assistants.



Access for Everyone

PTRC uses Web standards and follows WAI guidelines to help ensure our website is accessible to users of all technologies. An accessible website is one whose page content can be accessed by traditional (browsers) and non-traditional (handheld devices) user agents, as well as the range of assistive technologies used by people with visual, hearing, mobility, and cognitive impairments.

 

At PTRC, we know that designing an accessible website can mean the difference between allowing and denying access for individuals whose Web and Internet use differs from our own. By using Web standards and following accessibility guidelines, the PTRC Website can accommodate different user conditions and provide equivalent interactive experiences for years to come.

 

Although PTRC is committed to accessibility and Web standards, and has tested its website using various online Web page validators, some users may not be able to access all PTRC Website content. If you have difficulty accessing any information on our website, please contact the PTRC Webmaster at

 

Please let us know if we can make your browsing experience better

 


Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

WCAG 2.0 Quick Reference List

  • 1.1 Text Alternatives: Provide text alternatives for any non-text content so that it can be changed into other forms people need, such as large print, braille, speech, symbols or simpler language.
  • 1.2 Time-based Media: Provide alternatives for time-based media.
  • 1.3 Create content that can be presented in different ways (for example simpler layout) without losing information or structure.
  • 1.4 Distinguishable: Make it easier for users to see and hear content including separating foreground from background.
  • 2.1 Keyboard Accessible: Make all functionality available from a keyboard.
  • 2.2 Enough Time: Provide users enough time to read and use content.
  • 2.3 Seizures: Do not design content in a way that is known to cause seizures.
  • 2.4 Navigable: Provide ways to help users navigate, find content, and determine where they are.
  • 3.1 Readable: Make text content readable and understandable.
  • 3.2 Predictable: Make Web pages appear and operate in predictable ways.
  • 3.3 Input Assistance: Help users avoid and correct mistakes.
  • 4.1 Compatible: Maximize compatibility with current and future user agents, including assistive technologies.
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Links

Section 508 Standards

WebAIM Section 508 Checklist

Web Accessibility Initiative


"The issue in Web accessibility is the fact that blind and visually-impaired people need the single biggest boost to achieve equivalence, since the real-world Web is a visual medium." -Joe Clark