Section 508

Definition

It is a regulation that states all the electronic and information technology (EI&T) developed and maintained should be accessible to people with disabilities.

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Explanation

The invention of hearing aids, adaptive switches, etc. has been a blessing to the disabled. Likewise, this growing technology should help the disabled to be able to use the information on the internet better.

This is exactly the aim of Section 508. That is to make web information available to the disabled.

Here are a few goals of Section 508

• To remove barriers in information technology.
• To provide new opportunities for people with disabilities.
• To encourage the development of technologies to achieve the above goals.

What documents fall under section 508?

Contents such as websites, emails, computer software, PDFs and slides created by a company must follow Section 508.

You might be wondering how section 508 is your concern. The reason being, it is mandatory to follow section 508. Otherwise, these are chances that you will face accessibility lawsuits from customers as well as employees.

More Information

In 1998, Section 508 was made part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  There are several laws related to Section 508. A few of them are:

1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
2. Section 255 of the Communications Act: Requires telecommunications products and services to be accessible to people with disabilities.
3. 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010: Requires advanced communications services and products to be accessible by people with disabilities.