What is BS EN ISO 14289:2013?

BS EN ISO 14289:2013 is an international standard that provides guidelines for the implementation of accessible PDF documents. It specifies requirements and recommendations for creating PDF files that are accessible to people with disabilities, such as those with visual impairments or learning difficulties.

Why is Accessible PDF Important?

Accessible PDF is crucial because it ensures that all individuals, regardless of their abilities, can access and understand the information within a PDF document. Without accessibility features, such as alternative text for images or properly structured headings, visually impaired individuals may struggle to navigate through the content.

In addition to being inclusive, accessible PDF format also benefits organizations by complying with legal requirements. Many countries have legislation in place that mandates equal access to information for individuals with disabilities. By adhering to BS EN ISO 14289:2013, organizations can fulfill their legal obligations and avoid potential lawsuits related to discrimination.

Main Requirements of BS EN ISO 14289:2013

The standard outlines several key requirements for creating accessible PDF documents:

Tagging: All content should be properly tagged using appropriate elements, including headings, paragraphs, lists, and tables. This allows assistive technologies, like screen readers, to interpret the structure of the document accurately.

Alternative Text: Descriptive alternative text must be provided for non-text elements, such as images and charts. This ensures that individuals who cannot perceive these elements visually can still understand their meaning.

Color Contrast: Sufficient color contrast should be used between text and background to enhance readability for people with low vision.

Navigation Aids: Document navigation should be intuitive and consistent, allowing users to move through the content efficiently. This can be achieved by utilizing bookmarks, hyperlinks, and a logical reading order.

Best Practices for Creating Accessible PDF Documents

To create PDF documents that meet the requirements of BS EN ISO 14289:2013, here are some best practices to consider:

Use built-in accessibility features in PDF authoring tools, such as tag editors and accessibility checkers.

Ensure that the reading order of the document matches its visual appearance.

Provide a meaningful title and headings that accurately describe the content.

Use simple language and avoid jargon or complex terminology.

Include alternative text for all images and complex graphics.

Consider providing transcripts or captions for multimedia elements.

Test the accessibility of your PDF document using assistive technologies.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your PDF documents are accessible and inclusive, benefiting a wider range of individuals.