WCAG (Level AAA) SC 1.2.6 Sign Language (Prerecorded) (w3.org)
Issue description
WCAG 1.2.6, “Sign Language (Prerecorded)” is a Level AAA success criterion, meaning it goes above and beyond the basic accessibility requirements. It mandates that prerecorded synchronized media, like videos, should include sign language interpretation for all audio content. This is particularly important for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and whose primary language is sign language. Here’s why this matters:
- Sign language as a first language: For many deaf individuals, sign language is their native language, and they may have limited reading comprehension. Captions, while helpful, might not be sufficient for full understanding.
- Nuances of communication: Sign language conveys nuances like tone, emotion, and emphasis that can be lost in written captions.
- Cognitive load: Processing written captions can be cognitively demanding, especially for complex or lengthy videos. Sign language interpretation provides a more natural and accessible way to understand the information.
Essentially, this guideline promotes a higher level of inclusivity by recognizing the needs of those who primarily communicate through sign language. It ensures that they have equal access to information and can engage with video content in their preferred language.
Related requirements
The following WCAG source criteria are often related to this as well. They can provide additional insights into specific challenges you may be encountering.
- WCAG (Level A) SC 1.2.3 Audio Description or Media Alternative (Prerecorded)
- WCAG (Level AA) SC 1.2.4 Captions (Live)
- WCAG (Level AA) SC 1.2.5 Audio Description (Prerecorded)
- WCAG (Level AAA) SC 1.2.7 Extended Audio Description (Prerecorded)
- WCAG (Level AAA) SC 1.2.8 Media Alternative (Prerecorded)
- WCAG (Level AAA) SC 1.2.9 Audio-only (Live)
Who this issue impacts
Follow the links for additional information on user impairments:
Suggestions for remediation
Remediating WCAG 1.2.6, “Sign Language (Prerecorded)” involves providing sign language interpretation for your videos to make them accessible to deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who use sign language as their primary form of communication. Here’s how:
Include sign language interpretation
- Hire a qualified interpreter: Engage a qualified sign language interpreter who is fluent in the relevant sign language (e.g., American Sign Language, British Sign Language) and familiar with the subject matter of your video.
- Recording the interpretation:
- Picture-in-picture: The interpreter can be recorded in a separate video and displayed in a smaller window within the main video (picture-in-picture).
- Separate video: Alternatively, you can provide a separate video file with the sign language interpretation alongside the original video.
Technical considerations
- Video player: Ensure your video player supports displaying multiple video streams or picture-in-picture functionality.
- Synchronization: The sign language interpretation should be synchronized with the audio and video content.
- Visibility: The interpreter should be clearly visible and well-lit.
- Background: Use a plain background that doesn’t distract from the interpreter.
Metadata and user interface
- Indicate sign language availability: Clearly indicate that a sign language interpretation is available for the video.
- Provide options: Allow users to choose between different sign language interpretations if available (e.g., ASL, BSL).
Tools and resources
- Sign language interpreters: Contact interpreter agencies or organizations for deaf individuals to find qualified interpreters.
- Video editing software: Use video editing software to incorporate the sign language interpretation into your videos.
What to do
You have a video tutorial on web development. To meet this guideline, you would:
- Hire a sign language interpreter who is fluent in the relevant sign language.
- Record the interpreter signing the tutorial alongside the original video, either as a picture-in-picture or a separate video file.
- Make both versions available on your website, clearly labeling them (e.g., “Video with ASL interpretation”).
By providing sign language interpretation, you demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and ensure that your video content is accessible to a wider audience, including those who rely on sign language for communication.
