QR accessibility is not a property of the square alone. It includes finding the code, reaching it, understanding what it offers, operating a device, loading the destination, and completing the task.

Never make scanning the only route

Provide a short readable URL, telephone number, printed content, staff-assisted path, or another genuinely equivalent option. The right alternative depends on the task. “Ask someone else to scan it” is not independent access.

Keep essential safety, price, deadline, and emergency information visible where required.

Describe the outcome

Use copy such as “Open the audio-described tour, 4 minutes” instead of “Scan me.” State important conditions before the scan, including login, payment, data collection, app requirements, audio, or a large download.

Make the physical code findable

Use strong contrast, adequate size, a complete quiet zone, consistent placement, and reachable height. Avoid glare, moving surfaces, deep recesses, and locations that require unsafe posture. Tactile markers or staff guidance may help in a deliberately designed environment, but they require user-centered testing.

Make the destination accessible

The landing page should use semantic structure, keyboard access, visible focus, sufficient text contrast, zoom support, captions, transcripts, descriptive links, accessible forms, and clear errors. Avoid forcing a new app when an accessible web experience can meet the need.

Original inclusive example

A museum label provides a concise visible description, a short URL, and a code labeled “Audio description and full transcript.” A tactile locator is tested with blind visitors, and a loan device is available. The mobile page does not autoplay and lets the visitor read the transcript without accepting nonessential tracking.

Test with people

Automated accessibility tools can catch code and page defects but cannot establish whether the placement, language, or overall journey works. Include disabled people in research and review, compensate participants appropriately, and document remaining barriers.

Sources and further reading

Create the code you need

Use HighEndDIY’s private browser tool, then test the result in the setting where people will scan it.

Create a QR Code

Found something that should be corrected? Email [email protected].