1193.43(b) Availability of visual information for low vision users

Explanation

Provide visual information through at least one mode to users with visual acuity between 20/70 and 20/200 without relying on audio.

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. Many people who have low vision can use their vision to access visually presented information on a product.

2. Strategies for meeting this provision involve:

  1. Providelarger, higher contrast text and graphics. Individuals with 20/200 vision can see lettering if they get close to it, unless it is very small or has very poor contrast. Although 14 or 18 point type is recommended for visual displays, it is usually not possible to put this size text on small products.
  2. Make the lettering as large and high contrast as possible to maximize the number of people who can use the product.
  3. On displays where the font size can be varied,allow the user to increase the font size, even if it means that the user must pan or move in order to seethe full display.

Features that Address this Guideline

High contrast display.
Illuminated display.
Large display.
Speech synthesis of incoming text content.
Zoom display.