ARIA meter elements have accessible names

Meter elements have labels so screen readers can announce their value.

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Impact

ScanGov impact ratings

About

When a meter element doesn't have an accessible name, screen readers announce it with a generic name, making it unusable for users who rely on screen readers. [Learn how to name meter elements](https://dequeuniversity.com/rules/axe/4.10/aria-meter-name).

Risks

Screen readers cannot describe what a meter is measuring.

Why it's important

Ensures assistive technologies like screen readers can correctly interpret and announce page elements to users with disabilities.

User stories

As a screen reader user, I want ARIA attributes to be correctly implemented so that I can understand the purpose and state of interactive elements.

Code

Failing pattern:

<!-- Fail: meter with no accessible name -->
<div role="meter" aria-valuenow="75" aria-valuemin="0" aria-valuemax="100"></div>

Passing pattern:

<!-- Pass: aria-label names the meter -->
<div role="meter" aria-valuenow="75" aria-valuemin="0" aria-valuemax="100" aria-label="Download progress">75%</div>

Error

ScanGov messaging when a site fails a standard:

Failed: ARIA meter elements have accessible names

Guidance

Indicators

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