1193.41(b) Operable with low vision and limited or no hearing
Explanation
Provide at least one mode that permits operation by users with visual acuity between 20/70 and 20/200, without relying on audio output
Strategies
1. Individuals with low vision often also have hearing
disabilities, especially older individuals. These persons cannot rely solely on
audio access modes commonly used by people who are blind. Tactile strategies are still quite useful, although many older
persons may not be familiar with Braille. The objective, therefore, is to
maximize the number of people who can use their residual vision, combined with
tactile senses, to operate a product
2. Strategies for addressing this provision may include the following:
- Make the information on the product easier to see. Use high-contrast print symbols and visual indicators, minimize glare on the display and
control surfaces, provide adequate
lighting, position controls near the items they control to make them easy
to find, and use Arabic instead of Roman numerals
- The type-face and type-spacing used can greatly effect legibility. The spacing between letters should be approximately 1/16 the height of
uppercase letters and the spacing should be uniform from one label to the next.
Also, symbols can sometimes be used which are much more legible and understandable than fine print
- Where the display is dynamic, provide a means for the user to enlarge the display and to "freeze" it. In addition to
making it easier to see, there are strategies which can be used to reduce the
need to see things clearly in order to operate them
- A judicious use of color-coding, always redundant with other cues, is extremely helpful to persons with low vision.
These cues should follow standard conventions, and can be used to reduce the
need to read labels (or read labels more than the first time). In addition, all
of the tactile strategies discussed under section 1193.41 (a) can also be used
here
Features that Address this Guideline
Any-button answer
Auto-answer
Automatic redial
Color coded controls
High contrast controls
High contrast display
Illuminated controls
Illuminated display
Keys identifiable by touch
Large buttons
Large display
Nib on ‘5’ key
Redial
Simple selections
Simplified controls
Speech recognition controls
Speech recognition of outgoing spoken content
Speed dial
Zoom display