Named-required elements should not be left without a name

Rule orphan-aria-reference · ARIA · impact minor · Static + live

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Why it matters#

Some roles (generic, presentation, paragraph, emphasis…) prohibit an accessible name. Naming them is ignored by AT, so the author’s intent is lost — usually a sign the wrong element or role was chosen.

How to fix#

Move the name to an element whose role supports naming, or change the element’s role.

Example#

<span aria-label="Tip">i</span>

<span role="img" aria-label="Tip">i</span>

WCAG success criteria#

4.1.2 Name, Role, Value — Level A#

Every UI component must expose a correct name, role, and (where relevant) state/value to assistive technology.

Understanding 4.1.2

Standards#

This rule contributes to the following standards:

WCAG A EN 301 549

References#

• WAI-ARIA — Name From Prohibited