Chapter 4: Complete WCAG 2.2 Compliance Checklist

Converting accessibility knowledge into systematic implementation requires a structured approach that balances thoroughness with practical execution. This comprehensive checklist guides you through every aspect of WCAG 2.2 compliance, from initial assessment to ongoing maintenance.

Unlike generic accessibility checklists, this framework incorporates all nine new WCAG 2.2 success criteria while providing business context for prioritization decisions. Each item includes implementation guidance, testing methods, and common pitfall warnings based on real-world compliance projects.

Use this checklist as both an audit tool for existing websites and a development guide for new projects. The systematic approach ensures comprehensive coverage while preventing the overwhelming paralysis that often accompanies accessibility initiatives.

Pre-Audit Preparation: Setting Up for Success

Establishing Your Compliance Baseline

Business Context Assessment:

• [ ] Identify your compliance target level (A, AA, or AAA based on Chapter 1 guidance)
• [ ] Document legal requirements specific to your industry and jurisdiction
• [ ] Assess current lawsuit risk based on business model and public accommodation status
• [ ] Define success metrics beyond compliance (performance impact, user experience improvements)
• [ ] Establish budget parameters for immediate fixes vs. long-term improvements

Team and Resource Planning:

• [ ] Assign accessibility champion responsible for coordinating compliance efforts
• [ ] Identify required skill sets (development, design, content, testing)
• [ ] Plan training requirements for team members who will maintain compliance
• [ ] Establish vendor relationships for specialized testing or remediation if needed
• [ ] Create implementation timeline with realistic milestones and dependencies

Documentation and Communication Strategy:

• [ ] Prepare accessibility statement template for public commitment
• [ ] Establish feedback mechanism for users to report accessibility issues
• [ ] Create internal communication plan for stakeholder updates and training
• [ ] Document current state with screenshots and metrics for progress tracking

Technical Infrastructure Setup

Development Environment Preparation:

• [ ] Install accessibility testing tools in browsers (axe DevTools, WAVE, Lighthouse)
• [ ] Configure automated testing in CI/CD pipeline for ongoing compliance monitoring
• [ ] Set up screen reader testing environment (NVDA for Windows, VoiceOver for Mac)
• [ ] Establish code review processes that include accessibility checkpoints
• [ ] Create accessibility testing checklist for developers and QA teams

Audit Tool Selection:

• [ ] Choose automated scanning tool (axe-core, Lighthouse, Pa11y, or commercial solution)
• [ ] Select manual testing methodology appropriate for your team’s skill level
• [ ] Identify user testing resources for validation with actual users with disabilities
• [ ] Establish performance baseline to measure impact of accessibility improvements

Technical Audit Checklist: Systematic Compliance Assessment

Perceivable Content Requirements

Images and Media Compliance:

• [ ] All informative images have descriptive alt text that conveys meaning and context
• [ ] Decorative images use empty alt attributes (alt=””) to avoid screen reader clutter
• [ ] Complex images include long descriptions via longdesc attribute or adjacent text
• [ ] Image buttons describe the action rather than the image appearance
• [ ] Charts and graphs have data tables or comprehensive text alternatives
• [ ] Video content includes accurate captions for all dialogue and important sounds
• [ ] Audio content provides complete transcripts with speaker identification
• [ ] Auto-playing media has user controls to pause, stop, or adjust volume

Color and Contrast Verification:

• [ ] Normal text meets 4.5:1 contrast ratio against background colors
• [ ] Large text (18pt+ or 14pt+ bold) meets 3:1 contrast ratio minimum
• [ ] UI components meet 3:1 contrast ratio for boundaries and states
• [ ] Information is not conveyed by color alone (use icons, patterns, or text)
• [ ] Link colors are distinguishable from body text and maintain contrast ratios
• [ ] Form validation errors are visible without relying solely on color changes
• [ ] Charts and graphs use patterns or textures in addition to color coding

Responsive and Zoom Compliance:

• [ ] Content reflows properly at 320px width without horizontal scrolling
• [ ] Text scales to 200% zoom without loss of functionality or content
• [ ] Interface elements remain functional at high zoom levels
• [ ] Touch targets maintain minimum 24px size across all responsive breakpoints

Operable Interface Assessment

Keyboard Navigation Verification:

• [ ] All interactive elements are keyboard accessible via Tab navigation
• [ ] Tab order follows logical reading sequence (left-to-right, top-to-bottom)
• [ ] Focus indicators are clearly visible with sufficient contrast (minimum 3:1)
• [ ] No keyboard traps exist where users become stuck in interface elements
• [ ] Skip links allow bypassing repetitive content (navigation, headers)
• [ ] Custom components respond to appropriate keyboard events (Enter, Space, arrows)
• [ ] Modal dialogs properly manage focus and return to trigger element when closed

WCAG 2.2 Focus Requirements (NEW):

• [ ] Focus indicators are never entirely obscured by sticky headers or overlays (2.4.11)
• [ ] Focus collision detection implemented for dynamic content positioning
• [ ] Scroll margins configured to account for fixed positioning elements
• [ ] Focus appearance meets enhanced visibility standards if targeting AAA (2.4.13)

Touch and Gesture Accessibility:

• [ ] All drag-and-drop functionality has single-point alternatives (2.5.7 – NEW)
• [ ] Swipe gestures include button alternatives for carousel and slider navigation
• [ ] Multi-touch gestures provide single-touch options for pinch-to-zoom alternatives
• [ ] Touch targets meet minimum 24×24 pixel requirements (2.5.8 – NEW)
• [ ] Touch target spacing prevents accidental activation of adjacent elements

Timing and User Control:

• [ ] Time limits can be turned off, adjusted, or extended before encountering them
• [ ] Auto-playing content has pause/stop controls available within 3 seconds
• [ ] Session timeouts include warning and extension options for essential functions
• [ ] Moving or scrolling content can be paused by user interaction

Understandable Content and Interface

Content Clarity and Structure:

• [ ] Page language is declared in HTML lang attribute
• [ ] Language changes within content are identified with appropriate lang attributes
• [ ] Heading structure is logical and hierarchical (H1 → H2 → H3, no skipping levels)
• [ ] Lists are properly marked up using ul, ol, and li elements
• [ ] Reading order matches visual order for all content
• [ ] Content is written at appropriate reading level for intended audience
• [ ] Unusual words and abbreviations are defined or explained

Navigation and Consistency:

• [ ] Navigation menus are consistent across all pages in location and order
• [ ] Page titles are descriptive and unique for each page
• [ ] Breadcrumb navigation is provided for complex site structures
• [ ] Search functionality is easily discoverable if site includes search
• [ ] WCAG 2.2: Help mechanisms appear consistently across pages (3.2.6 – NEW)

Form Design and Interaction:

• [ ] All form fields have proper labels associated with for/id attributes
• [ ] Required fields are clearly identified before users encounter them
• [ ] Input format requirements are explained before data entry
• [ ] Error messages are specific and helpful with correction suggestions
• [ ] Confirmation is required for destructive actions (delete, purchase, submit)
• [ ] WCAG 2.2: Form data is not redundantly requested within sessions (3.3.7 – NEW)

Authentication and User Account Management (WCAG 2.2 NEW):

• [ ] Alternative authentication methods provided for cognitive accessibility (3.3.8)
• [ ] Biometric authentication available where technically feasible
• [ ] Email verification links offered as password alternative
• [ ] OAuth/SSO integration implemented for reduced credential management
• [ ] Password recovery doesn’t require memory tests beyond email access

Robust Technical Implementation

Code Quality and Semantics:

• [ ] HTML validates against DOCTYPE without critical errors
• [ ] Semantic HTML elements used appropriately (nav, main, article, section)
• [ ] Landmark roles identify page regions for screen reader navigation
• [ ] Tables use proper headers and scope for data relationships
• [ ] Form elements use appropriate input types (email, tel, date, etc.)

ARIA Implementation:

• [ ] ARIA labels supplement inadequate HTML semantics without redundancy
• [ ] Live regions announce dynamic content changes appropriately
• [ ] ARIA roles clarify element purpose when HTML semantics are insufficient
• [ ] ARIA states communicate current conditions (expanded, selected, invalid)
• [ ] ARIA properties provide additional context (describedby, owns, controls)

Performance and Accessibility Integration:

• [ ] Page load times don’t prevent accessibility tool functionality
• [ ] Heavy animations can be disabled via prefers-reduced-motion
• [ ] JavaScript degradation maintains core functionality for assistive technologies
• [ ] Font loading strategies preserve text readability during load processes

Content Audit Checklist: Information Architecture and User Experience

Content Strategy Evaluation

Information Architecture:

• [ ] Site structure supports logical navigation patterns for screen reader users
• [ ] Content categories use consistent terminology across all contexts
• [ ] Related content is grouped logically with clear relationships
• [ ] Search and filter functionality is accessible via keyboard and screen readers

Content Quality Assessment:

• [ ] Writing follows plain language principles appropriate for audience
• [ ] Instructions are complete and actionable without assumptions about user ability
• [ ] Error prevention guidance is proactive rather than reactive only
• [ ] Multi-step processes include progress indicators and completion estimates

Media and Interactive Content

Video and Audio Accessibility:

• [ ] Captions include speaker identification and sound effect descriptions
• [ ] Audio descriptions provide visual context for important visual information
• [ ] Transcript accuracy exceeds 95% for professional content
• [ ] Media players include full keyboard control and screen reader compatibility

Interactive Elements and Widgets:

• [ ] Custom components follow established accessibility patterns (ARIA Authoring Practices)
• [ ] Data tables include sortable column indicators and current sort state
• [ ] Carousel and slider controls are keyboard accessible with appropriate labeling
• [ ] Accordion and collapsible content manages focus properly on state changes

Document and Download Accessibility

PDF and Document Compliance:

• [ ] PDF documents are tagged for accessibility or HTML alternatives provided
• [ ] Document titles are meaningful and descriptive in metadata
• [ ] Download links include file type and size information for user preparation
• [ ] Alternative formats available for complex documents (large print, plain text)

Testing and Validation Procedures

Automated Testing Integration

Continuous Integration Setup:

• [ ] Automated accessibility scans run on every code commit
• [ ] Performance regression testing includes accessibility impact assessment
• [ ] Error reporting includes accessibility violations with prioritization
• [ ] Deployment blocking configured for critical accessibility failures

Tool Configuration and Validation:

• [ ] Multiple automated tools used to maximize coverage (axe-core + Lighthouse + commercial)
• [ ] False positive filtering configured to focus on genuine issues
• [ ] Custom rules implemented for organization-specific requirements
• [ ] Reporting dashboard provides actionable insights for development teams

Manual Testing Protocols

Screen Reader Testing Methodology:

• [ ] Primary screen reader testing completed (NVDA on Windows, VoiceOver on Mac)
• [ ] Mobile screen reader testing included (VoiceOver on iOS, TalkBack on Android)
• [ ] Navigation patterns verified (landmarks, headings, forms, tables)
• [ ] Content comprehension validated without visual context

Keyboard Navigation Assessment:

• [ ] Complete site navigation using only keyboard documented and verified
• [ ] All functionality accessible without mouse or touch input
• [ ] Focus management tested in dynamic content scenarios
• [ ] Keyboard shortcuts documented and non-conflicting with assistive technologies

Real-World Usage Validation:

• [ ] User testing with people with disabilities conducted for critical user journeys
• [ ] Usability feedback incorporated into accessibility implementation
• [ ] Performance testing includes assistive technology load impacts
• [ ] Mobile accessibility tested on actual devices with assistive technologies

Performance Impact Assessment

Core Web Vitals Monitoring:

• [ ] Accessibility improvements measured against performance baselines
• [ ] Loading performance maintained while adding accessibility features
• [ ] Interactive performance verified with assistive technologies active
• [ ] Visual stability preserved during accessibility enhancement implementation

Implementation Prioritization Framework

Risk-Based Priority Assessment

Critical Priority (Immediate Action Required):

• [ ] Keyboard navigation failures that prevent core functionality access
• [ ] Missing form labels in critical user journeys (checkout, registration)
• [ ] Severe contrast violations affecting content readability
• [ ] Authentication barriers preventing account access entirely

High Priority (Address Within 30 Days):

• [ ] WCAG 2.2 focus management issues affecting user navigation
• [ ] Touch target sizing problems impacting mobile conversion
• [ ] Missing alt text on informative images
• [ ] Inconsistent help placement creating user confusion (3.2.6)

Medium Priority (Address Within 90 Days):

• [ ] Enhanced focus appearance for improved visibility (2.4.13)
• [ ] Drag-and-drop alternatives for better motor accessibility (2.5.7)
• [ ] Redundant data entry elimination for cognitive accessibility (3.3.7)
• [ ] Advanced authentication options for enhanced accessibility (3.3.8)

Low Priority (Address in Next Design Cycle):

• [ ] AAA-level enhancements beyond legal requirements
• [ ] Advanced ARIA implementations for complex widgets
• [ ] Enhanced cognitive accessibility features
• [ ] Progressive enhancement for emerging assistive technologies

Resource Allocation Strategy

Development Team Integration:

• [ ] Accessibility training scheduled for all team members
• [ ] Code review processes updated to include accessibility checkpoints
• [ ] Testing procedures integrated into existing QA workflows
• [ ] Performance monitoring expanded to include accessibility metrics

Budget and Timeline Planning:

• [ ] Implementation costs estimated for each priority level
• [ ] Vendor evaluation completed for specialized accessibility services
• [ ] Legal review timeline established for compliance verification
• [ ] Ongoing maintenance budget allocated for continuous compliance

Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring

Compliance Sustainability

Regular Audit Schedule:

• [ ] Monthly automated scans with trend analysis and reporting
• [ ] Quarterly manual reviews focusing on new content and features
• [ ] Annual comprehensive audits including user testing validation
• [ ] Immediate testing protocols for all new feature releases

Team Training and Awareness:

• [ ] Accessibility awareness training for all content creators
• [ ] Technical implementation training for developers and designers
• [ ] Legal requirement updates communicated to stakeholders
• [ ] Success story sharing to maintain organizational commitment

Continuous Improvement Process:

• [ ] User feedback integration for real-world accessibility insights
• [ ] Industry best practice monitoring for emerging techniques
• [ ] Technology evolution tracking for new accessibility opportunities
• [ ] Performance optimization balance with accessibility enhancement goals

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From Checklist to Implementation Success

This comprehensive checklist provides the systematic framework needed for successful WCAG 2.2 compliance. However, successful implementation requires more than checking boxes—it demands understanding the business context, user impact, and technical implications of each requirement.

The next chapter focuses on testing tools and methodologies that validate your compliance efforts and ensure lasting accessibility improvements. You’ll discover how to select appropriate testing tools, establish effective validation processes, and create monitoring systems that maintain compliance as your website evolves.

Ready to transform systematic assessment into validated compliance? Chapter 5 provides the testing expertise that ensures your accessibility investments deliver genuine value for users and sustainable protection for your business.