WCAG and accessibility for all!
The digital world is evolving rapidly and companies need to ensure that their digital products and services are accessible to all. Accessibility is...
3 min read
Digital accessibility is a duty. The European Accessibility Act(EAA) and the German Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz(BFSG) set clear standards for digital products and services.
We explain in brief what companies need to know and how they can benefit from these regulations .
What is the connection between the EAA and the BFSG?
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is an EU directive (2019/882) with the aim of creating uniform accessibility standards for products and services across Europe. The EAA was adopted on June 27, 2019 and will come into force on June 28, 2025 via the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG), which implements the requirements of the EAA in Germany.
This not only facilitates cross-border trade, but above all improves accessibility for people with disabilities and older people. The directive is based on the principle of "Design for All".
The EAA affects the following areas, among others:
- Computers and operating systems
- Smartphones and tablets
- ATMs, ticket machines, check-in terminals
- Online banking and e-commerce
- E-books and reading devices
- Telecommunications services and devices
- Audiovisual media services (e.g. streaming platforms)
- Passenger transportation services (air, bus, rail, shipping)
Who is affected by the BFSG?
Roughly speaking:
- Micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and a maximum annual turnover or balance sheet total of €2 million are generally exempt - unless they offer directly affected products or services.
- However, a clear obligation also applies to all other companies: digital offerings must be designed to be accessible. The BFSG thus strengthens the rights of people with disabilities and promotes a more inclusive society.
See also the self-audit on the Accessibility Reinforcement Act: Click
What do the EAA and BFSG actually require?
Although not identical, the definitions of accessible design of digital products and services in both laws refer to the internationally recognized Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 and 2.2).
The four principles of the WCAG ("POUR" principles)
|
Principle |
Meaning & examples |
|
Perceivable |
Content must be perceptible for all users (e.g. alternative texts for images, subtitles for videos) |
|
Operable |
Simple navigation must be guaranteed (e.g. keyboard navigation) |
|
Understandable |
Present information clearly and simply (e.g. simple language) |
|
Robust |
Ensure compatibility with assistive technologies (e.g. screen reader) |
Why accessibility is more than just a legal obligation
Accessibility offers companies numerous advantages:
- ✅ Greater reach: digital offerings reach more user groups.
- ✅ Better user experience: ease of use benefits everyone.
- Positive image: Commitment to inclusion strengthens your brand.
- SEO benefits: search engines prefer accessible websites.
- ✅ Compliance: Protection from fines through compliance with legal requirements.
- ✅ Innovation: Promoting creative solutions through inclusive design.
Risks of non-compliance with regulations
Companies that ignore the requirements of the EAA or BFSG risk serious consequences:
- ⚠️ High fines: depending on the severity of the violation, severe penalties can be imposed.
- ⚠️ Claims for damages: Affected users can sue for compensation.
- ⚠️ Loss of reputation: Negative headlines cause lasting damage to a company's image.
- ⚠️ Shutdown: Authorities actively investigate violations and order measures up to and including shutdown.
Seeing accessibility as an opportunity
The EAA and the BFSG are milestones on the way to a more inclusive digital world. Companies should not see these regulations as a burden, but as an opportunity - for legal protection, increased reach and innovation. An accessible product improves the user experience for everyone.
Accessibility is a decisive comparative competitive advantage (CCI).
Take action now!
Get started now:
- ✅ Checking your digital offerings for accessibility.
- ✅ Obtain expert support.
- ✅ Train your employees.
- ✅ firmly anchoring accessibility in your corporate philosophy.
How we can support you on the path to accessibility
- Analysis of your digital accessibility: We review your digital offerings and provide you with a clear overview of the status quo.
- Focus on quick wins: With a view to the "low-hanging fruits", we show you which measures you can implement quickly.
- Detailed implementation plan: You will receive a prioritized report with specific recommendations for action, tailored to the requirements of the BFSG.
- Efficient implementation: Save time and resources by taking targeted measures that have the greatest impact.
- Quality assurance: As an independent quality assurance provider, we accompany the acceptance of your changes and ensure that they meet the standards.
Let's work together to make your digital offerings accessible!
See also:
Note: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For the solution of specific legal questions, please contact a qualified lawyer. No liability is assumed for the accuracy, completeness and up-to-dateness of the information provided.
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