Understanding Your Organization's Obligations under the European Accessibility Act (2019/882)
As a business owner or manager, it's essential to be aware of your organization's legal obligations regarding accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. In this blog post, we will provide a brief overview of the European Accessibility Act (2019/882) to help you better understand your responsibilities and ensure your organization is compliant. Keep in mind that this post only provides a brief introduction, and it's crucial to explore the European Accessibility Act and related regulations further by visiting the official resources provided at the end of this blog post.
Key Obligations for Organizations
Product and Service Accessibility: The act requires organizations to make their products and services accessible to individuals with disabilities, including deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. This may include sign language interpretation, real-time captioning, or other assistive communication technologies, enabling them to access information and services on an equal footing with their hearing counterparts.
Accessibility Statements: Organizations must provide an accessibility statement outlining the measures they have taken to ensure accessibility, as well as any known limitations in their products or services.
Complaints and Feedback Mechanisms: The act mandates that organizations establish a clear, user-friendly mechanism for customers to provide feedback or file complaints related to accessibility issues.
Staff Training: Organizations are expected to provide training to staff members responsible for accessibility, ensuring they are aware of their obligations and equipped to address accessibility concerns effectively.
Regular Monitoring and Updates: Organizations must regularly monitor and update their accessibility measures to stay compliant with current regulations and best practices.
Other Relevant Regulations: In addition to the European Accessibility Act, there may be other country-specific regulations governing accessibility in your jurisdiction. It's essential to familiarize yourself with these laws and ensure your organization is compliant at both the EU and national levels. Some examples of national laws include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States and the Equality Act in the United Kingdom.
Key Dates and Deadlines
Understanding the timeline for implementing accessibility measures under the European Accessibility Act is crucial for organizations to maintain compliance. Here are some important dates to keep in mind:
28 June, 2022: EU member states need to have their national laws aligned with the EAA.
28 June, 2025: All products and services covered by the EAA must meet the accessibility requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding and complying with accessibility regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial aspect of fostering an inclusive and socially responsible organization. By taking the necessary steps to meet the requirements of the European Accessibility Act and other relevant legislation, you can create a more accessible and welcoming environment for all customers, including deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the European Accessibility Act and its implications for your organization, we highly recommend visiting the webpages below, where you will find detailed information, guidelines, and additional resources to help ensure your organization complies with accessibility regulations and fosters an inclusive environment for all customers.
Resources
European Accessibility Act
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex%3A32019L0882
European Accessibility Act Questions & Answers
https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1202&intPageId=5581