wcag-audit-operable-target-size

When to Use

Use this tool when designing buttons, links, form controls, or any interactive elements to ensure they meet minimum touch target size requirements for accessibility.

Usage

Command Line

node scripts/check.js --width 48 --height 48
node scripts/check.js --width 32 --height 40 --spacing 8
node scripts/check.js --element "button" --dimensions "44x44"

JSON Input

node scripts/check.js --json '{"width": 48, "height": 48, "spacing": 8}'

Parameters

• --width: Element width in pixels
• --height: Element height in pixels
• --spacing: Minimum spacing between adjacent targets (optional)
• --element: Element type description (optional)
• --dimensions: Dimensions as "WxH" format (alternative to width/height)
• --json: JSON input with dimensions and spacing properties

Output

Returns JSON with compliance status and recommendations:

{
  "dimensions": {
    "width": 48,
    "height": 48
  },
  "minimumRequired": {
    "width": 44,
    "height": 44
  },
  "compliance": {
    "size": true,
    "spacing": true
  },
  "recommendations": []
}

Examples

Check a button size

$ node scripts/check.js --width 48 --height 48 --element "primary button"
✅ Size: PASS (48x48px meets 44x44px minimum)
✅ Spacing: PASS (8px spacing provided)
No issues found - this target meets accessibility requirements

Check a small link

$ node scripts/check.js --width 24 --height 16 --element "footer link"
❌ Size: FAIL (24x16px is below 44x44px minimum)
❌ Spacing: FAIL (insufficient spacing between targets)
Recommendations:
- Increase width to at least 44px (currently 24px)
- Increase height to at least 44px (currently 16px)
- Ensure at least 8px spacing between adjacent interactive elements

WCAG Standards

• Minimum Size: 44px by 44px (approximately 9mm) for touch targets
• Spacing: Adequate spacing between adjacent targets to prevent accidental activation
• Exceptions: Smaller targets allowed if identical function available with larger target within same page
• Enhanced: 44px by 44px strongly recommended, smaller targets only in exceptional cases

Best Practices

1. Use 44x44px minimum: Design all touch targets at least this size
2. Consider thumb size: Account for finger/thumb size in mobile designs
3. Provide spacing: Ensure at least 8px between interactive elements
4. Test on device: Verify usability on actual touch devices
5. Consider context: Smaller targets may be acceptable in non-critical areas

Learn More

For more information about Agent Skills and how they extend AI capabilities.