How to Build Accessible Websites for Deaf Users

Never rely on sound alone

The basic rule: no important information should be delivered only through sound. A promo video with only a voice-over, a notification that only plays a sound, or a support line reachable only by phone means that information simply does not exist for a Deaf user.

Captions and sign language in videos

Every video should have accurate, synchronised captions. Auto-generated captions are a good start but must be checked.

Where possible, add sign language interpretation to important videos. For many Deaf people, sign language is their first language and captions do not always replace it. The WCAG accessibility guidelines treat captions for recorded video as a basic requirement and sign language interpretation as an advanced criterion.

Write plain, clear text

For people whose first language is a sign language, the written language is often a second language. Short sentences, everyday words and clear headings make reading easier for everyone. Prefer lists and step-by-step explanations over long, complex paragraphs.

Offer several ways to get in touch

"Call us" should never be the only option. Offer these instead:

• WhatsApp and written messaging
• Video calls where needed (for sign language communication)
• A short, simple contact form
• An email address

Make notifications visual

Alerts, errors and confirmations inside an app or panel must be clearly visible on screen; a sound alone is not enough. In mobile apps, combine vibration with visual alerts.

Event and registration systems

For international sports events, conferences and similar organisations, registration, accreditation and accommodation should run entirely through written and visual flows. Form errors must be clear, documents such as accreditation cards and certificates should be generated automatically and correctly, and important announcements should be shared in writing together with sign language video.