bbk issue 33

Layout 1 copy

bbk issue 35

BBK Magazine, issue 36

over 2 copy

BBK Magazine, issue 38, 2019

Layout 1

PDF documents must be tagged to ensure accessibility and compliance with digital standards.

## What this means

Tagging in a PDF involves adding hidden metadata that outlines the structure and content of the document. These tags function similarly to HTML tags, describing elements like headings, paragraphs, lists, and tables. They are crucial for screen readers and other assistive technologies to interpret the content correctly.

## Why it matters

1. **Accessibility**: Tagging makes PDFs accessible to individuals with disabilities, allowing assistive technologies to read and navigate the document effectively.
2. **Legal Compliance**: Various laws and regulations require digital content, including PDFs, to be accessible. Failure to comply can lead to legal complications.
3. **Usability**: Tagged PDFs are more user-friendly, providing better navigation and search capabilities for all users.

## How to fix

1. **Use Tag-enabled PDF Creators**: Create or convert documents using software that supports tagging, like Adobe Acrobat or Microsoft Word.
2. **Manually Add Tags**: If your PDF isn't tagged, use a PDF editor's accessibility tools to add tags. This includes setting a logical reading order and adding alternative text for images.
3. **Consult Guidelines**: Follow best practices outlined in WCAG or similar guidelines for effective tagging.

## Testing Methodology

Silktide looks at the PDF and flags it if it doesn't contain tags.

## Further Reading

- [Adobe's Guide to PDF Accessibility](https://www.adobe.com/accessibility/pdf/pdf-accessibility-overview.html)

pdf-must-be-tagged

September 2025

August 2025

Birkbeck University of London

	Title / URL	Issues
	bbk issue 33www.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk33.pdf	1
	Layout 1 copywww.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk28.pdf	1
	bbk issue 35www.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk35.pdf	1
	BBK Magazine, issue 36www.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk36.pdf	1
	over 2 copywww.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk24.pdf	1
	over 2 copywww.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk26.pdf	1
	BBK Magazine, issue 38, 2019www.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk38.pdf	1
	Layout 1www.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk30.pdf	1
	Layout 1www.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk29.pdf	1
	over 2 copywww.bbk.ac.uk/documents/bbk25.pdf	1

Tag all PDFs

Birkbeck University of London

Where this issue has occurred