Consistent h1 and h2 page section labels

Rule ID Navigation 5
Definition Consistent accessible names for h1 and h2 elements that identify recurring page sections common across all pages in a website.
Purpose
  • One of the fundamental features of the web is the provision of easy access to useful information. Consistent accessible names of h1 and h2 elements used to identify recurring page sections common across all pages in the website will make it easier for people to find information they are seeking and to navigate between and within pages.
Required Yes for HTML5 and ARIA Techniques ruleset mapping
WCAG Success Criteria

3.2.4 Consistent Identification (Level AA, Primary Success Criterion)

Rule Category Site Navigation
Scope Website
Target Resources h1 and h2 elements used to identify recurring page sections within a website
  • h2
Techniques
  • Use h1 elements to identify the main content within a page.
  • Use h2 elements to identify other major sections within pages, e.g. navigation bars, web site search forms, footer information, etc.
Manual Checks
  • View the h1 and h2 heading structure of the page, and verify that it has the same relative order as other pages within the website
Informational Links