Inappropriate Heading Content Check

Description

The “Inappropriate Heading Content Check” evaluates whether any heading element does not provide a meaningful, descriptive content.

Example outcome

I found 1 heading whose content is only composed by an image without the alt attribute, i.e. without any textual equivalent alternative.

Impact

• Visual Impairments: Screen readers cannot announce the heading’s purpose if the image lacks alt text—making that section a mystery.
• Motor Impairments: Users navigating via keyboard or assistive devices rely on headings to skip between sections—they can’t effectively do this if headings are invisible to them.
• Cognitive Disabilities: Icons or images without accompanying text can confuse users who rely on clear cues for navigation.
• Neurodivergent Disorders: Headings support cognitive organization. A non-descriptive image heading disrupts understanding and focus.

Fixes

To address inappropriate heading content:

1. Locate the heading inappropriately defined.
2. If it is only composed by an image, include a meaningful alt text.
3. When possible, use text inside headings and opt whether to include a decorative image.
4. If applicable, make sure to use a meaningful and concise heading text.

Resources

• WCAG 2.2: Understanding Success Criteria 2.4.6
• WCAG 2.2 Techniques: Technique G130: Providing descriptive headings
• WebAIM: Semantic Structure: Regions, Headings, and Lists
• WebAIM: Alternative Text