Complex tables
Requirements for 508 compliance
Ensure data cells are associated with the correct header cells.
Watch video (1:13 mins)
Check for merged or split cells. If used, convert to an accessible format.
To check for merged or split cells in data tables:
To look for the presence of merged or split cells, visually inspect the document.
If Merged or Split Cells are used, convert the file to a PDF for reading.
Note: Because merged and split cells are inherently inaccessible in MS Word, this check must be completed visually.
Watch video (0:51 secs)
If merged or split cells are used in the document, this requirement is applicable.
Note: It is not possible to programmatically associate merged or split data cells with their associated data headers. The MS Word format does not support this capability.
Fix any other accessibility issues with this MS Word document.
Convert the document to an accessible format for distribution.
Ensure data cells are associated with the correct header cells.
Not Applicable.
Ensure data cells are associated with the correct header cells.
Complex tables may require additional header labeling to maintain the correct relationship for cells and headers. Merged cells can confuse the programmatic associations between data cells and their intended table headers.
Legal References
508 references:
1194.22(g); 1194.22(h); 1194.31(a); 1194.31(b).
WCAG references:
1.3.1, 2.4.6, 4.1.2
All Microsoft Word Requirements