1. Figuring out Section 508

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 bans disability discrimination in federal programs and activities. Section 508, modified in 1998, requires federal agencies to make their EIT accessible to people with disabilities. This covers websites, software, hardware, multimedia, and PDFs.

2. Components Crucial to Section 508-Compliant PDF Accessibility

2.1 Tagging

Tagging adds structural and semantic information to a PDF document, such as headers, paragraphs, lists, tables, pictures, links, etc.

2.2 Alternative Text

Alternative text describes an image or object that conveys its meaning or purpose for visually impaired users.

2.3 Reading Order

The reading order of a PDF document should align with its visual order for proper comprehension by screen readers.

2.4 Metadata

Metadata provides crucial information about the document's title, author, topic, and language for easier identification.

2.5 Forms

Forms should be accessible for users navigating using a keyboard or assistive technologies.

2.6 Security

PDFs should not use security features that make content inaccessible, such as encryption that prevents screen reading.

3. Complying with Section 508

To comply, consider manual, automated, and user testing. Utilize tools like Adobe Acrobat Pro and CommonLook PDF for remediation.

4. The Impact of Section 508 PDF Accessibility

Improving PDF accessibility enhances inclusivity, usability, compliance, and reputation for organizations and users.

5. Comparing Section 508 and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

Section 508 aligns with WCAG principles, although it specifically addresses federal entities and has a broader EIT scope.

6. The Future of PDF Accessibility

As technology evolves, PDF accessibility must continuously adapt to meet changing needs and incorporate AI, mobile, and cloud solutions.