Data tables must have name

Rule ID Table 2
Definition Data tables must have an accessible name to identify the purpose of the table.
Purpose
  • An accessible name for a data table enables people using assistive technologies to identify the purpose of the table and to differentiate among multiple data tables on the same page.
  • Screen readers include table navigation commands and the accessible name will provides context to the table.
Mappings
  • HTML4 Legacy Techniques (Recommended)
  • HTML5 and ARIA Techniques (Recommended)
WCAG Success Criteria

2.4.6 Headings and Labels (Level AA, Primary Success Criterion)

Rule Category Tables
Scope Element
Target Resources table
  • table
Techniques
  • Use caption element to provide an accessible name for a data table.
  • Use summary attribute to provide an accessible name for a data table.
  • Use title attribute to provide an accessible name for a data table.
  • Use aria-label attribute to provide an accessible name for a data table (NOTE: inconsistent browser/AT support).
  • Use aria-labelledby attribute to provide an accessible name for a data table (NOTE: inconsistent browser/AT support).
  • If the table is not used for tabular data, but instead for layout of content, use the role="presentation" on the table element.
Manual Checks
  • Make sure the the accessible name accurately and succinctly identifies the purpose of the data table.
  • If the table markup is actually being used for laying out content in rows or columns, use role="presentation" on the table element.
Informational Links