This standard framework outlines the enforceable operational rules. For the constitutional mandate, governance structures, and enforcement policies under which these rules are applied, please refer to the National Audio Description Policy (NADP) — available via the NADP link in the navigation above.
Normative Compliance Framework Reference: ADSASA-NADS-2.6 · Version 2.6 Final Draft

NADS — National Audio Description Standard

The enforceable technical and editorial rulebook governing how audio description is produced, mixed, verified, and delivered across all content types. The mandatory baseline every ADSASA-certified provider must meet.

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Normative Language

The following definitive meanings apply strictly throughout this document:

Shall and Must
Mandatory compliance requirement — non-negotiable baseline.
Must Not
Absolute prohibition.
Should
Recommended best practice — justification required if deviated from.
May
Optional or discretionary practice.

Scripting and Editorial Standards

All audio description scripts must prioritise plot-critical information, maintain strict objectivity, use the present tense exclusively, and preserve clarity over artistic choice. No subjective interpretation or editorialising is permitted.

Information Priority Hierarchy

When drafting description scripts, information delivery must be prioritised in this order:

  1. ActionWhat is occurring
  2. Emotion and ExpressionFacial changes, body language, and intent
  3. ContextSpatial relationship, setting, and environment
  4. DetailSpecific aesthetic attributes, clothing, or secondary objects

Technical Delivery and Mixing Standards

Audio description shall be inserted exclusively into natural pauses within the program audio track. Dialogue overlap must be avoided unless absolutely essential to preserve plot comprehension. The original audio mix integrity must be preserved at all times.

Loudness Target

Target Loudness Baseline
−24 LUFS ±2 LU
The final description track must meet this target. Professional smooth ducking shall be applied to background audio during description segments.

Community Verification Standards

All audio description assets shall undergo a mandatory structured three-tier verification process prior to submission for formal certification:

  • Blind and visually impaired consultation during the initial scripting phase
  • Real-world usability testing with target end-users
  • Structured feedback review and adjustment loop

Certification Metrics

Providers must submit verified proof demonstrating compliance across four core performance metrics:

  • Functional Comprehension — Clear user understanding of the visual narrative
  • Timing Clarity — Accurate placement relative to program audio
  • Cognitive Load Acceptability — Description density must not cause audience fatigue
  • User Satisfaction — Confirmed quality response from community testers

Live Audio Description Standards

Live or real-time Audio Description shall adhere to the following constraints:

  • Delivered synchronously in real time with the live event
  • Prioritise essential, high-level action to prevent information lag
  • Maintain vocal clarity, calm delivery, and precision under intense time pressure
  • Performed exclusively by trained, accredited live audio description specialists

Artificial Intelligence and Automation Standards

The utilisation of AI or synthetic voice automation is strictly governed:

  • AI systems may assist in text or synthetic voice generation only if the output is fully reviewed, edited, and validated by a human professional
  • Automated output must achieve 100 percent compliance with all technical and editorial clauses of this Standard
  • Final regulatory and legal responsibility remains entirely with the Certified Provider
System Link: This standard framework outlines the enforceable operational rules. For the constitutional mandate, governance structures, and enforcement policies under which these rules are applied, please refer to the National Audio Description Policy (NADP) — available via the NADP link in the navigation above.