evidence EV-SAFEGUARDS-2026-D8E5

Uniform time limits can create accessibility barriers

Evidence Record

WCAG 2.2 requires operable content, keyboard access, and enough time, including adjustable timing where a limit is not essential. It also notes that technical conformance does not address every user need. The experiment's identical fixed window is therefore not accessibility-neutral.

The protocol should provide accessible materials and tools, test keyboard and assistive-technology paths, permit predeclared timing accommodations, and keep elapsed time secondary. A participant should not need to disclose a diagnosis to request an accommodation.

Limitations

WCAG governs web content, while the study may also use editors, terminals, and documents. Participatory testing remains necessary; conformance is not proof of equivalent research participation.