Sign language interpretation is consistent across all content

The rule tests the presentation of sign language interpretation to ensure it remains static and predictable for the user.

Applicability

This rule applies to any audio only or video with audio content that includes sign language interpretation, including content that is part of a related set, including but not limited to a series, course, or playlist.

Expectation

All sign language interpretation:

• Is presented consistently throughout each content item; and
• Is presented consistently across related content items; and
• Uses consistent methods for identifying speakers, languages, and sounds, where applicable.

Background

This rule supports the WCAG 3 outcome for consistent sign language presentation. It enures that users who rely on sign language interpretation can understand content without needing to re-learn presentation patterns.

Consistency includes aspects such as placement, size, styling, and how contextual information, for example speaker identity or sounds, is conveyed.

Assumptions

• Sign language interpretation is provided and intended for user consumption
• Content items identified as related are intended to be experienced as a group

Accessibility support

There are no known accessibility support issues.

Examples

Passed

Passed example 1

Consistent interpreter placement within a video.

The interpreter remains in the same position and style throughout, supporting predictable viewing.

  <video controls src="lesson1.mp4"></video>
  <div class="sign-interpreter bottom-right consistent-style"></div>

Passed example 2

Consistent presentation across a video series.

All videos use identical placement and styling for the interpreter.

  <!-- Video 1 -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter bottom-right consistent-style"></div>
  <!-- Video 2 -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter bottom-right consistent-style"></div>

Passed example 3

Consistent speaker identification method.

Speaker labels are used uniformly throughout the media.

  <div class="sign-interpreter">
    <span class="speaker-label">Speaker 1</span>
  </div>

Passed example 4

Consistent styling including size and contrast.

Interpreter visibility remains the same throughout.

  <div class="sign-interpreter"
      style="position:absolute; bottom:10px; right:10px; width:200px;">
  </div>

Passed example 5

Consistent handling of sound cues across media.

Non-speech sounds are represented consistently.

  <div class="sign-interpreter">
    <span class="sound-label">[Applause]</span>
  </div>

Passed example 6

Alternative presentation is essential to the production.

Variation is required for narrative or artistic reasons.

  <!-- Interpreter intentionally moves for storytelling -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter dynamic-placement"></div>

Failed

Failed Example 1

The interpreter changes position within the same video.

This disrupts consistency and predictability.

  <!-- Beginning -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter bottom-right"></div>
  <!-- Later -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter top-left"></div>

Failed Example 2

Different presentations across related media.

Users must adjust to different layouts between videos.

  <!-- Video 1 -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter bottom-right small"></div>
  <!-- Video 2 -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter top-left large"></div>

Failed Example 3

Inconsistent speaker identification methods.

Different cues are used for identifying speakers.

  <!-- Earlier -->
  <span class="speaker-label">Speaker 1</span>
  <!-- Later -->
  <span class="speaker-color blue"></span>

Failed Example 4

Interpreter size changes significantly during playback.

This affects visibility and consistency.

  <div class="sign-interpreter small"></div>
  <div class="sign-interpreter large"></div>

Failed Example 5

Styling changes across media without justification.

Contrast and visibility vary, reducing usability.

  <!-- Video 1 -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter dark-background"></div>
  <!-- Video 2 -->
  <div class="sign-interpreter transparent-background"></div>