Welcome to your comprehensive guide for tackling the complex issue of PDF/UA compliance testing. Today, we will focus on a unique error you might encounter – the OCCD (Optional Content Configuration Dictionary) Key Error in PAC (PDF Accessibility Checker) 2021. Let’s dive in!
Video Overview
Identifying the OCCD Key Error in PAC 2021
While conducting PDF/UA compliance tests using the PAC 2021 tool, you may come across an issue named “OCCD Optional Content Configuration Dictionary contains as key”. This peculiar problem is unique to PDF / UA compliance.
The OCCD Key error may seem complex but fear not, we have a foolproof method to address this using the Preflight menu.
Utilizing the Preflight Menu to Fix the OCCD Key Error
Follow these steps to navigate the error:
- In Adobe Acrobat, navigate to ‘More Tools’.
- Add ‘Print Production’ to your tools panel.
- Select ‘Print Production’, then click on ‘Preflight’. This will present a range of potential fixes for your file.
- Look for the little wrench icon which denotes a ‘Single Fix’. Click on it.
- In the search bar, type ‘flatten’.
- The option we are looking for is “Discard hidden layer content and flatten visible layers”. All objects on currently invisible layers will be discarded, and all layers, including the visible ones, are flattened.
- Select this option and click ‘Fix’.
- Save your file when prompted.
Verifying the Solution
To check if the error is resolved, test your newly saved file with the PAC 2021 tool. Drag and drop the file into the tool and if all goes well, the troublesome OCCD Key Error should have disappeared.
Resolving the OCCD Key Error in PAC 2021 is just one step towards achieving complete PDF/UA compliance. It’s a process, but with patience and the right know-how, you can conquer it.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with others who may be facing the same challenges. We’d also love to hear from you about any other issues you’re encountering with your PDFs. Remember, accessibility is our collective responsibility and together, we can make content more accessible for everyone.

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