Keeping advertisers on the right track for people with photosensitive epilepsy

The latest news article from The Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) and Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) outlines how they protect members of the public with photosensitive epilepsy (PSE) from adverts containing visual effects or techniques which could adversely affect them.

There are rules in place which apply to television and non-broadcast media so flashing lights, rapid cuts between different shots, and contrasting geometric patterns which are moving are not allowed. While only 3-5 percent of people with epilepsy are photosensitive the article directs people to information on our website about PSE

It is noted in the article that there is little mention of complaints about ads triggering epileptic seizures by the ASA because TV ads are tested for PSE triggers, reducing the likelihood of them causing problems. However, as we have previously reported, where members of the public have raised concerns, either directly with the advertiser or through ourselves, an advert can be withdrawn. 

We were pleased to see that advertisers are responding positively to complaints and trying to ensure compliance in the first place. The article directs people to information about staying safe online (link) on our website, which gives information about settings you can adjust on social media sites and your browser to minimise your risk of harm. This was developed following our successful campaign for Zach’s law which makes it illegal for people to create flashing images and maliciously target people with photosensitive epilepsy. 

Find out more at: Eye-catching Effects and Epilepsy - ASA | CAP