The European Accessibility Act

The European Accessibility Act

As mentioned above, the European Accessibility Act is an act that was passed in 2019 and is being established in June of 2025, that aims to ensure that some products and services are made accessible to people with disabilities. This includes both physical products such as Computers, Smartphones, ATMs and Digital Televisions, as well as Services such as Banking Services, E-Commerce, Emergency Services, and the focal point of this project, Websites.

What is Expected?

The main goal of this Act is that companies must ensure that the newly marketed products and services covered by the Act are accessible (European Commission, 2024). There are no technical restrictions on the type of accessibility features that a service provider may allocate to their product, allowing for flexibility and innovation. Websites, however, must display to the user info about the features, and users must be able to traverse the website and consult its content whilst also using assistive devices. Organisations are also urged to check their local laws and regulations to understand what compliance must be followed.

What Organisations Does it Impact?

This Act impacts all organisations putting out products within the EU, save for a few exceptions, such as Microenterprises (small businesses with less than 10 members). Member States may also choose to allow extensions on the deadline for service providers that use Self-Service terminals.

How Much Time do Organisations Have?

Organisations have until the 28th of June 2025 to prepare to have their products and services become accessible and have three years to ensure they comply with the Act. Consumers will also have the ability to file a formal complaint against an Organisation from the 28th of July.

Who Does it Benefit?

This Act benefits both consumers and organisations, as Consumers who require accessibility features to operate websites will be able to do so, and Organisations will gain a new market of people looking to use their services.

How to Prepare?

Organisations can prepare for the EAA by ensuring that their products and services are accessible to people with disabilities. This includes conducting accessibility audits, providing training for employees, and implementing assistive technologies. It is also important to stay informed about the latest accessibility standards and guidelines. As stated before, this website focuses on helping with the implementation of accessibility features into websites.

What are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?

In Ireland, the penalty for not abiding with the EAA is a fine of up to €200000, as well as enforcement actions such as mandatory audits (InclusiveWeb, 2024). There are also grounds for legal action should an organisation choose not to comply with the EAA, which may hurt their reputation and consumer trust.

What are the Exceptions?

There are a few exceptions to the EAA, such as Microenterprises (small businesses with less than 10 members). Member States may also choose to allow extensions on the deadline for service providers that use Self-Service terminals.

There are also some exceptions to the EAA, such as Microenterprises (small businesses with less than 10 members). Member States may also choose to allow extensions on the deadline for service providers that use Self-Service terminals.

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