Notes from Webinar on European Accessibility Act

Introduction

• Host: Emma Wheeler, Marketing Manager at AbilityNet
• Topic: European Accessibility Act (EAA) - readiness for the 2025 enforcement
• Format: Fireside Chat with Via, Accessibility and Usability Consultant, and panelists Susanna Laurin and Sabine Ling
• Captions: Provided by My CeX, available via StreamText
• Post-Webinar Materials: Slides, transcript, and recording will be available on the AbilityNet website

AbilityNet Overview

• Vision: Digital world accessible to all
• Services: Assist organizations in building accessible workplaces, websites, and apps

Presentation by Christopher Patau, Head of Accessibility at Google

• Role: Accessibility and disability inclusion for Google
• Moved to UK: In response to the EAA
• Advice for Businesses:
  • Consult legal team for clarity
  • Understand EU's definition of 'product'
  • Prioritize processes with legal team
  • Recognize gaps between current accessibility standards and EAA
  • Importance of understanding regional laws
• Legislation Impact:
  • Opportunity to improve accessibility
  • Risk of losing the right to sell products in the EU
  • Long-term benefit of aligning with international standards

Fireside Chat Highlights

Panelists

• Susanna Laurin: Managing Director, Funka Foundation
• Sabine Ling: Director for Communications, Mobile & Wireless Forum

Key Points

• EU Population with Disabilities: 27% over age 16, equating to 101 million people
• Directives: EAA and Public Sector Web Accessibility Directive
• Member State Implementation: 26 out of 27 have transposed the EAA into national laws

Preparation Steps for Businesses

• Evaluation: Assess current status and capabilities
• Competence Building: Training and internal expertise development
• Use of Standards: Leverage existing standards like EN 301 549
• Industry-Specific Guidance: ICT and mobile industry to adapt existing features

Long-Term Strategy

• In-house Expertise: Encourage training and professional certification (IAAP)
• Adopt Design for All: Incorporate inclusive design processes

Benefits of EAA Compliance

• Market Access: Harmonized standards facilitate selling products across EU
• Increased Customer Base: Accessible products cater to a wider audience

Challenges and Solutions

• Understanding Complex Requirements: Read the EAA and applicable standards
• Implementation Gaps: Standards are not exhaustive and may require adaptation
• Innovation: Flexibility to adapt standards for better solutions

Q&A Highlights

• Impact on Non-EU Businesses: EAA applies if selling in EU
• Application to Various Industries: E-commerce, ICT, hospitality, etc.
• Evidence of Compliance: Self-declaration, harmonized standards, or notified bodies
• Global Context: Consideration of other international accessibility standards

Conclusion

• Final Advice: Start preparation now, build internal capacity, and understand the legal framework
• Resources: IAAP, industry standards, and professional bodies for guidance
• Next Steps: Read EAA, join professional networks, and subscribe to relevant updates

Follow-Up

• Webinar Materials: Available on the AbilityNet website
• Contact for Support: AbilityNet offers consulting and training services