Accessibility Policy

We are committed to ensuring equitable access to ESS Press materials and to aligning with WCAG 2.2 Level AA recommendations. This policy applies to the website, downloadable files (PDF/EPUB), forms, and submission/peer-review workflows for the book line.

1) Commitments

  • We design and maintain interfaces using an “accessibility-first” approach.
  • We address identified barriers within reasonable timeframes.
  • We provide alternative formats upon request without undue delay.
  • We train our team and contractors in core accessibility practices.

2) Standards and criteria

Our benchmark is WCAG 2.2 AA, including:

  • Perceivable: alternative text (alt) for meaningful images; sufficient contrast for text and UI elements; scaling to ≥200% without loss of functionality; captions/transcripts for media content (where used).
  • Operable: full keyboard navigation; visible focus indicators; logical tab order; no “keyboard traps”; reasonable form time-outs.
  • Understandable: consistent headings and hierarchy; clear field labels; error messages with guidance; predictable interface elements.
  • Robust: valid markup (HTML5/ARIA), accessible tables (headers/relationships), proper labels for forms and buttons, semantic links.

3) Publication formats

  • PDF/EPUB: structural tagging (headings, lists, tables), descriptive alt text, correct reading order, bookmarks; validation using accessibility tools.
  • Images/figures: text descriptions of key visual information; for complex graphics—expanded captions explaining the data.
  • Data tables: column/row headers, unit notes, avoidance of empty cells used purely for layout.

4) Forms and submission process

  • fields with explicit labels and examples;
  • error messages near the relevant field and in a summary;
  • draft saving (where possible) and warnings about potential data loss;
  • compatibility with assistive technologies.

5) Third-party content and serviced journals

Resources linked by ESS Press but hosted by third parties (including journal websites) may have separate accessibility standards. We aim to link to accessible resources and will provide a feedback contact where a partner-side barrier is critical for access to the material.

6) Requesting alternative formats

If you require an alternative format (e.g., an accessible PDF/EPUB, a text description of a complex figure), email policies@ess.press. Please include: the publication/chapter title, required format, desired timeframe, and preferred delivery method. We will acknowledge receipt and agree timelines.

7) Feedback and reporting barriers

To report an accessibility issue, email policies@ess.press. Please describe the page/file, your device/browser/reader, and any assistive technologies used. We aim to respond within 10 business days and provide updates on remediation progress.

8) Monitoring and improvements

  • regular audits of content and templates;
  • inclusion of accessibility requirements in contractor briefs;
  • documentation of known issues and remediation plans;
  • integration of accessibility considerations into website and production roadmaps.

9) Date and conformance status

This page describes our goals and current practice. Formal conformance statements (Statements of Accessibility) are updated as website/template releases occur.

Policy version: 1.0 · Publication date: 01/09/2025 · Contact: policies@ess.press