The ADA or Americans With Disabilities Act sets several standards of accessibility for disabled Americans. As well, legally prohibits discrimination. The internet has become a part of daily life. Standards concerning website design as it relates to being accessible for the visual and hearing impaired now exist. There are many design concepts that assure a site is accessible as per the ADA. However, for the purposes of this article, the focus will be on how audio features can be best used to increase accessibility and reduce distraction.
Two Ways To Use Audio in ADA Compliant Website Design
Avoiding Background Audio Distractions
Background audio can be distracting to visitors or make the main content hard to hear or decipher. Speech tracks should either not have background audio. If background audio does exist there should be an option to turn it off. Any background sound included with an audio track should be at least 20 dB lower than the speaking part.
Audio Alternatives
Remember that not all website visitors can hear audio. Your website should have an alternative providing the same information as the audio tracks. Therefore, use alternative formats such as sign language, a text document, or subtitles.
Thanks to our friends at UglyBadger.com for this helpful infographic. 
