The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is set to come into force on June 28, 2025, marking further steps toward digital inclusivity across the European Union (EU).
This new regulation will require most digital products and services to be accessible to people with disabilities. Whether you’re a business owner, marketing professional, web developer, or service provider, understanding the EAA’s requirements is crucial for compliance and inclusivity.
What Does the EAA Require?
The EAA outlines several key accessibility requirements that organisations must meet:
1. Accessibility Standards
All digital products and services must conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards. This means that websites, mobile applications, and other digital services must be designed to be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for users with disabilities.
2. Accessibility Statements
Websites and mobile apps must include an accessibility statement that details the extent to which the service meets accessibility requirements. This statement helps users understand what measures have been taken and how they can report accessibility issues.
3. Accessibility Testing
The EAA mandates uniform accessibility testing rules across the EU. This ensures that accessibility compliance is consistently measured and enforced, providing clarity for businesses and developers.
4. Accessibility Evaluation
There will be a structured platform for evaluating, monitoring, and reporting accessibility compliance. This will help regulatory bodies and users track progress and identify areas for improvement.
5. Accessibility Training
To support organisations in meeting these requirements, the EAA calls for accessibility training, tools, and resources. This will aid developers, designers, and content creators in implementing accessibility best practices.
How Does the EAA Apply to the UK?
Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, the EAA still has implications for UK businesses:
- UK businesses that trade within the EU must comply with the EAA regulations.
- Public sector bodies in the UK must adhere to the European standard EN 301 549, which aligns with many of the EAA’s requirements.
Steps to Make Your Digital Services Accessible
Being ahead of the game is key and understanding how and where you can improve your current website in line with new regulations is key. Here are just a few steps to consider.
- Check for Accessibility Issues: Conduct an audit of your website or app to identify any accessibility barriers.
- Develop a Plan for Improvements: Prioritise and address the issues found in your accessibility audit.
- Publish an Accessibility Statement: Be transparent about your current accessibility status and ongoing efforts.
- Ensure New Features Are Accessible: Incorporate accessibility from the beginning of the design and development process.
- Include Disabled Users in Research: Gather feedback from people with disabilities to better understand their needs and improve usability.
Conclusion
The European Accessibility Act is a vital step toward digital inclusivity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can access digital products and services. Working within these guidelines ensures that you, as a business, provide inclusive experiences and are able to reach a broader audience.
Don’t wait until the deadline—at Element78 we have accessibility experts ready to advise and support on your move towards a truly accessible web experience.
To find out how we can help please contact us today
