The European Union has enacted the European Accessibility Act (EAA), a transformative directive aimed at ensuring equal access to digital products and services for people with disabilities. Here’s what you need to know about this groundbreaking legislation and its potential impact on society and businesses.
The EAA represents a significant step forward in the EU’s commitment to accessibility:
– June 28, 2022: EU member states were required to integrate the EAA’s accessibility requirements into their national laws.
– June 28, 2025: From this date onwards, businesses must ensure that their products and services to be made available in the European market meet the EAA’s accessibility standards.
The EAA is not just another set of guidelines; it is a legally enforceable directive that extends its reach beyond the public sector to include private businesses. This means that companies providing digital products and services must comply with the EAA or face potential penalties including fines and even prison sentences in some jurisdictions. The act is designed to ensure that accessibility is not optional but a standard requirement for market entry.
The EAA is expected to profoundly impact the lives of approximately 135 million people with disabilities within the EU. By mandating accessibility, the act aims to break down barriers that have long hindered full participation in society for people with disabilities. The focus on digital accessibility is particularly relevant in today’s increasingly online world, where access to information and services is vital.
The EAA covers a broad range of products and services, ensuring comprehensive accessibility. Key areas include:
While the EAA sets stringent requirements, it also presents significant opportunities for businesses:
Harmonized market
With unified accessibility standards across the EU, companies can reduce compliance costs and complexities.
Increased customer base
By making products and services accessible, businesses can tap into a vast, underserved market.
Improved brand reputation
Companies that lead in accessibility are seen as socially responsible, enhancing their public image.
Better innovation
Accessibility challenges can drive the development of innovative solutions, benefiting all users.
Legal compliance
Adhering to the EAA helps businesses avoid legal repercussions and ensures they are in line with EU laws.
Broader impact
The EAA aims to create a more inclusive digital economy, fostering greater participation and engagement from people with disabilities. This not only enriches lives but also opens up new avenues for businesses, promoting cross-border trading and a more unified market.
Qualitest’s role in accessibility
Navigating the requirements of the EAA can be complex, but Qualitest offers comprehensive support to ensure compliance and enhance accessibility:
Accessibility audits
Thorough assessments to identify accessibility issues and areas for improvement.
Remediation support
Practical strategies to address and fix accessibility violations.
Shift-left approach
Integrating accessibility considerations from the design phase to ensure compliance from the outset.
Compliance reporting
Detailed reports demonstrating adherence to accessibility standards, including the EAA.
Continuous support
Ongoing guidance to maintain and improve your accessibility credentials, boosting your brand reputation and customer base.
With over 12 years of experience in the field, Qualitest has been a pioneering force in accessibility testing and support. Our extensive portfolio includes partnerships with more than 60 clients, each benefiting from our tailored accessibility solutions. Our unique pair-testing approach, which involves collaboration between disabled users and accessibility experts, ensures a thorough and authentic accessibility audit.
Top reasons to partner with us
Market leader
Recognized for our expertise and innovation in the accessibility space, we are at the forefront of driving inclusive solutions.
Thought leader
Actively participating in accessibility thought leadership, we stay ahead of industry trends and best practices.
Top expert
Our team comprises highly experienced accessibility specialists, bringing extensive knowledge and live insights to every project.
Proven track record
Our decade-plus experience and numerous successful client partnerships speak to our capability and reliability in delivering results.
The European Accessibility Act is more than just a legal requirement; it’s a significant stride towards a more inclusive society. By embracing these changes, businesses can not only comply with regulations but also contribute to a more accessible world for everyone. Partnering with Qualitest ensures that you are not just meeting the standards but setting them, leading the charge in creating a digital landscape that is open and accessible to all.
Hava Webb is the Director of UX and Accessibility at Qualitest, and is responsible for developing UX services, overseeing and supporting delivery for all UX services, creating training and marketing material and supporting clients in accessibility testing and remediation. She is skilled and experienced in the design, development and testing of desktop and enterprise applications, and a proven leader of test teams in professional environments.
