Testing Videos and Animations for Photosensitive Seizure Risks (WCAG 2.3.1)
May 1, 2026
The Photosensitive Epilepsy Analysis Tool (PEAT) was retired several years ago and is no longer supported or recommended.
UAMS now meets WCAG 2.3.1 Three Flashes or Below Threshold (Level A – Required) primarily through:
- Blackboard Ally for Websites – automated scanning that flags potential flashing content on every page (including embedded videos, GIFs, and animations)
- Platform-native tools on YouTube and Vimeo (both detect flashing risks during upload)
- Manual review with modern, free alternatives
Required for All UAMS Editors (April 26, 2027 Deadline)
No video, animation, GIF, carousel, or interactive element may flash more than three times in any one-second period. This is a mandatory Level A requirement under the DOJ Title II ADA final rule.
Current Best-Practice Testing Methods
- Blackboard Ally for Websites (Primary Tool) Ally automatically analyzes embedded media and flags flashing violations in real time. Fix any issues before publishing.
- YouTube & Vimeo Upload Preview Both platforms run the Harding Flash and Pattern Analyzer (the successor to PEAT) during upload and will warn or block videos that fail.
- Free Modern Alternative: FlashDetect (Online Tool)
- Go to https://flashdetect.org
- Upload your video file or paste a direct video URL
- The tool instantly reports pass/fail for general flash and red flash thresholds
- No software installation needed
- Manual Check (Always Recommended)
- Preview the video with “Reduce Motion” enabled in your operating system
- Count flashes: nothing on the page should flash >3 times per second
- Avoid red flashing, strobe effects, high-contrast patterns, or rapid transitions entirely when possible
If You Still Need to Test a Local Animation or Screen Recording
Use the free, browser-based Harding Test in YouTube Studio (upload as unlisted) or FlashDetect above.