European Accessibility Act (EAA): Is the Private Sector Prepared?

Understanding the European Accessibility Act (EAA)

The European Accessibility Act is a landmark legislation adopted by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union in 2019. It is based on the principles outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and was initially proposed in 2011 to complement the EU's Web Accessibility Directive, which was enacted in 2016.

The importance of the EAA

The EAA plays a pivotal role in advancing equal access for the individuals with disabilities and the elderly people within the EU.

By setting common accessibility standards, the act helps eliminate barriers and promotes a more inclusive society. It aims to provide equal opportunities for the persons with disabilities and the elderly people to participate in social, cultural, educational, and economic activities.

Furthermore, by harmonizing accessibility standards and requirements across member states, the directive aims to create a more seamless and consistent marketplace for accessible products and services within the EU.

This removal of country-specific rules helps to promote a level playing field for businesses operating across different EU countries, reducing barriers and facilitating smoother trade in the field of accessibility.

Scope of application

The requirements and obligations outlined in the directive apply to business that employs more than 10 individuals and has either an annual turnover exceeding EUR 2 million or an annual balance sheet total exceeding EUR 2 million.

Smaller businesses not meeting these criteria are not obligated to comply with the specific accessibility requirements and obligations outlined in the directive.

Implications for businesses

The EAA has significant implications for businesses and service providers falling under the EAA's scope and operating within the EU or targeting EU-based customers. Here's how it affects them:

• Accessibility requirements: Businesses offering products and services must meet the established accessibility requirements. This includes sectors such as telecommunications, banking, e-commerce, transportation, and e-books.
• Digital accessibility: The act places emphasis on digital accessibility, requiring businesses to ensure their websites, mobile applications, and other digital interfaces are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• Product and service adaptation: Businesses may need to modify their existing products and services to comply with accessibility requirements. This may involve redesigning user interfaces, incorporating assistive technologies, or providing alternative formats.
• Procurement: The EAA also impacts public procurement processes, as member states are required to consider accessibility requirements when purchasing goods and services for public use.

Important deadlines

The EAA outlines specific deadlines for compliance and implementation:

• Transposition into national law: Member states were required to transpose the EAA into their national legislation by June 28, 2022. This process involves adapting their laws and regulations to align with the act's provisions.
• Application of accessibility requirements: Businesses have until June 28, 2025, to ensure their products and services meet the accessibility requirements outlined in the act.
• Digital accessibility compliance: For websites and mobile applications, businesses have until June 28, 2025, to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at a minimum.

The evaluation process for the EAA

The evaluation process for the European Accessibility Act (EAA) plays a crucial role in determining its effectiveness in promoting accessibility and inclusion. This process involves various stakeholders, including EU member states, businesses, organizations, and individuals with disabilities.

The evaluation of the EAA focuses on key aspects, such as the successful transposition of the act into national legislation by member states, the level of compliance and implementation by businesses and service providers, and the impact on the accessibility of products, services, and digital interfaces.

Member states in the European Union must ensure that the rules and guidelines of the act are incorporated into their own laws. They are responsible for taking action to ensure the practical application and enforcement of the EAA.

Additionally, the evaluation assesses the act's effectiveness in removing barriers and promoting equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

To evaluate the real-world impact of the EAA and identify areas for improvement, feedback from individuals with disabilities, the elderly, accessibility experts, and relevant organizations is vital.

Through a comprehensive evaluation, the EU can continuously refine and enhance the EAA to achieve its goal of fostering inclusivity and accessibility throughout Europe.

What can you do to conform with the EAA?

To conform with the EAA, businesses and service providers can take proactive steps. Here are some key actions that can be taken:

1. Understand the requirements: Familiarize yourself with the accessibility requirements outlined in the EAA. Study the specific provisions and guidelines relevant to your industry to gain a clear understanding of what needs to be achieved.
2. Conduct an accessibility audit: Evaluate your current products, services, and digital interfaces for accessibility gaps. Engage accessibility experts or consultants to perform a comprehensive audit and identify areas that require improvement.
3. Implement accessibility standards: Integrate accessibility standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, into your digital interfaces, websites, and mobile applications. Ensure that these platforms are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for individuals with disabilities.
4. Redesign user interfaces: Adapt your user interfaces to cater to diverse needs. Provide alternative means of accessing information, such as text alternatives for images, captions for videos, and adjustable font sizes. Make sure your interfaces are compatible with assistive technologies like screen readers and keyboard navigation.
5. Train and educate employees: Provide training to employees, especially those involved in product development, design, and customer service. Educate them about accessibility principles, techniques, and the importance of inclusive design. Foster a culture of accessibility within your organization.
6. Involve people with disabilities: Include individuals with disabilities in your design and testing processes. Seek their feedback and involve them in user testing to gain valuable insights into potential accessibility barriers and usability issues.
7. Prioritize procurement: If your business involves procurement processes, ensure that accessibility requirements are considered when selecting goods and services. Collaborate with suppliers who prioritize accessibility in their offerings.
8. Establish accessibility policies: Develop internal accessibility policies and guidelines to ensure consistency and accountability within your organization. Clearly communicate these policies to employees, stakeholders, and customers.
9. Regularly review and improve: Accessibility is an ongoing process. Continuously monitor and review your products, services, and interfaces to identify and address any accessibility gaps. Stay updated with evolving accessibility standards and best practices.
10. Seek external expertise: If needed, consult accessibility experts, organizations, or accessibility professionals who can provide guidance and support in achieving compliance with the EAA.

The benefits of the EAA for your business

While the EAA presents challenges for businesses in terms of adapting their products, services, and digital interfaces, it also can have a positive impact in several ways.

Firstly, it helps your business align with legal requirements, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards set by the EU.

By adhering to these regulations, you demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity and equal access, enhancing your brand reputation and customer trust.

Additionally, the EAA presents an opportunity for innovation and market expansion.

By incorporating accessibility features into your products, services, and digital interfaces, you can tap into a broader customer base, including individuals with disabilities. This can lead to increased customer loyalty, brand loyalty, and potentially higher revenues.

Moreover, by prioritizing accessibility, you create a user-friendly experience for all customers, enhancing their overall satisfaction and loyalty.

Embracing the principles of the EAA also encourages a more inclusive work environment within your organization, fostering diversity and promoting the well-being of your employees.

Final thoughts

It is crucial for businesses to prioritize accessibility in their operations, proactively work towards compliance with the EAA's requirements, and consider the specific deadlines set for implementation. Collaborating with accessibility experts, conducting audits, and seeking user feedback are effective strategies for ensuring compliance and continuous improvement.

Ultimately, the European Accessibility Act is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By removing barriers and enhancing accessibility, the EAA promotes equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their disabilities or age. Together, through collective efforts and a commitment to accessibility, we can build a more accessible and inclusive Europe where everyone can fully participate and thrive.

Are you ready?