2.1.2 No Keyboard Trap [A]

Level A

If keyboard focus can be moved to a component of the page using a keyboard interface, then focus can be moved away from that component using only a keyboard interface, and, if it requires more than unmodified arrow or tab keys or other standard exit methods, the user is advised of the method for moving focus away.>

Explanation

It must be possible for someone to navigate through content using a keyboard, without getting stuck at any point. This makes sure that people who cannot use a mouse do not become trapped.

Responsibilities

  • Design
  • Development
  • QA

Requirements

  • It is possible to use the tab key to move focus away from any element that receives keyboard focus.

Common mistakes

  • A dialogue opens but cannot be dismissed without a mouse, so keyboard users are unable to access the content beneath it;
  • Content is presented in an infinite scroll, so a keyboard user has to tab through all the content inside the scroll before exiting it;
  • As a user tabs away from a form field, focus is automatically returned to the field because it contains errors.

Official resources

Other resources