Why test for flashing images and regular patterns?

The UK Advertising Codes for broadcast and non-broadcast advertising requires that advertisements are not in breach with Ofcom’s (ITC) Guidelines on Flashing Images and Regular Patterns on Television. Television programmes should similarly comply with these guidelines.

This is why many broadcasters will have their audiovisual content checked by the HardingFPA test before transmission. Material submitted to broadcasters could be accompanied by a HardingFPA test certificate to satisfy the broadcaster of its compliance.

The Advertising Standards Authority and Ofcom will under normal circumstances accept a test certificate proving that it passed the test, if it is complained about, and not go any further with its investigations.