36 CFR Part 1194 - Proposed Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Standards and Guidelines NPRM - Preamble

401.1 Scope (Section-by-Section Analysis)

This section proposes that the technical requirements for hardware in Chapter 4 be applied where (a) required by 508 Chapter 2 or 255 Chapter 2, or (b) where referenced by other requirements. Assistive technology hardware would be excepted from conformance with this chapter. This exception is proposed in response to public comments to the 2010 and 2011 ANPRMs that sought clarification on this point. Commenters expressed the concern that, should this scoping section be read as obligating assistive technology hardware to meet the requirements of this chapter, some assistive technology would not be able to serve its function. For example, people with very low muscle tone might use a specialized membrane keyboard that is completely flat, with no tactilely discernible separation between the keys, because it is the most optimal input device for them. This type of specialized keyboard, however, would not be permitted under proposed 407.3, which addresses tactilely discernible input controls. In light of the specialized nature of assistive technology, the Board proposes it be excepted from the technical requirements in this chapter.