Video and Multimedia Accessibility Standards

Video and multimedia are used for instruction, training, communication, marketing, and public information. Accessible multimedia ensures all students, employees, and community members can fully access and understand audio and visual content. 

Accessible media supports student success, improves usability for all viewers, and aligns with institutional accessibility standards. 

Why Accessible Multimedia Matters

Accessible video and audio: 

  • Support individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing 
  • Support individuals who are blind or low vision 
  • Improve comprehension and retention 
  • Improve usability in noisy or quiet environments 
  • Improve searchability and navigation 
  • Reflect institutional quality and professionalism 

Captioned and well-designed media benefits all viewers. 

EICC Standard for Video and Multimedia

All video and multimedia used for instruction, training, or public communication must: 

  • Include accurate captions 
  • Be reviewed for caption accuracy 
  • Include transcripts when appropriate 
  • Ensure audio clarity 
  • Ensure essential visual content is explained 
  • Use accessible hosting platforms 

Accessibility must be confirmed before content is posted or shared. 

All pre-recorded video must include accurate captions. 

WCAG alignment: Captions (Prerecorded) 1.2.2 | w3.org

This includes: 

  • Instructional video 
  • Course lectures 
  • Training materials 
  • Public-facing video 
  • Marketing and informational content

Recorded presentations and videos without captions must not be posted or required for viewing until captioning is complete. 

Auto-generated captions may be used as a starting point but must be reviewed and corrected. 

Captions must be: 

  • Accurate 
  • Synchronized 
  • Complete 
  • Readable 

Significant caption errors create barriers equal to having no captions. 
  

When possible, enable live captioning during: 

  • Virtual classes 
  • Webinars 
  • Public meetings 
  • Training sessions 

WCAG alignment: Captions (Live) 1.2.4 | w3.org

If recordings are shared later, captions must be reviewed before posting. 

Audio-only materials must include a transcript. 

WCAG alignment: Audio-only (1.2.1) 
 
Transcripts must: 

  • Include spoken content 
  • Identify speakers when relevant 
  • Include meaningful sound cues if necessary 
  • Transcripts support accessibility and content review. 

Important visual information must be described verbally within the video. 

WCAG alignment: Audio Description (1.2.5) | w3.org

Examples: 

  • Charts and graphs 
  • Demonstrations 
  • On-screen instructions 
  • Visual-only actions 

When recording, presenters must  describe key visuals so all viewers understand the content. 

Audio must be: 

  • Clear 
  • Understandable 
  • Free from excessive background noise 
  • Recorded at consistent volume 

Poor audio quality creates accessibility barriers even when captions are present. 

Video must be hosted on platforms that support: 

  • Caption display 
  • Keyboard navigation 
  • Screen reader compatibility 
  • Playback controls 

Avoid posting video on platforms that do not support captions or accessibility features. 

Avoid: 

  • Auto-play video with sound 
  • Flashing or strobe effects 
  • Rapid visual transitions 

WCAG alignment: 

Common Issues to Avoid 

  • Posting uncaptioned videos 
  • Relying solely on auto-generated captions 
  • Sharing recordings before caption review 
  • Audio-only recordings without transcripts 
  • Visual-only instruction without description 
  • Poor audio quality 
  • Using inaccessible video platforms 

Quality and Professional Standards 

Accessible media must  also be: 

  • Clearly organized 
  • Professionally presented 
  • Easy to understand 
  • Captioned accurately 
  • Free from unnecessary distraction 

Accessible multimedia reflects institutional quality and supports student success. 

Quick Check Before Posting Video 

Before posting or sharing: 

  • Are captions included and accurate? 
  • Has auto-captioning been reviewed? 
  • Is audio clear? 
  • Are visuals described verbally? 
  • Is the platform accessible? 
  • Is a transcript needed? 

If yes, the media is ready for use. 

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