Alt tags for table backgrounds?

[zaneta]

Hello,

On my new website I would like to add pictures as backgrounds in tables and table cells (<table) and <td> tags). Do you know whether it is possible to add alt tags for those pictures, and if so, are the search engines able to view them?

Thank you and I hope you have a pleasant day
Zaneta

[limbo]

You cannot add the alt attribute to table background but I think you can add the title attribute to td.

Ta

limbo

[DrDoc]

First off, a gentle correction -- it's an alt attribute, not a tag ;)

Yes, using the title attribute is the right approach! In fact, the title attribute can (and should) be used on many other elements as well (such as all form elements, all anchors, and others).

[mattur]

Use the title attribute appropriately where additional clarification enhances ease of use - you absolutely do not (and imho should not) put titles on every single link, form element, td etc.

Titles can be used to clarify and enhance accessibility but can also impede accessibility when used for no reason e.g. duplicating link text.

Most users will visually scan a page, not hover over each item, so in all cases ease of use is enhanced by using clear link text, clear form element labels etc. Where an element needs additional clarification add a title element. But don't fall into the trap of using the title attribute just for the sake of using it.

By design a background image will not be "read" by screen reader software or search engine spiders, so unless the image is adding essential information to the page having neither an alt or title attribute directly/indirectly associated with a tables' background image is an entirely acceptable (and accessible) approach.