The European Accessibility Act is set to reshape how businesses approach web accessibility. But what does this mean for your organisation? This act introduces new inclusivity regulations aimed at reducing the marginalisation of disabled individuals and sets a legal framework that could impact your operations significantly. By exploring these changes, businesses can meet legal requirements and enhance user experience, tapping into a wider customer base.

Why is web accessibility crucial, and how can it affect your interaction with disabled users? The act's primary goal is to reduce the barriers that prevent disabled individuals from enjoying full and equal participation in society. This is particularly crucial given that 71% of disabled customers will leave a site that isn't accessible, underscoring the urgent need for compliance. The legal implications for non-compliance could include penalties, fines, and a damaged reputation, making it essential for businesses to understand and implement the required changes proactively.

Use this practical checklist to guide your compliance efforts step by step.

1. Provide Accessible Multimedia

• Alt text for images: Ensure all images have descriptive alternative text.

• Text transcripts for audio: Include written transcripts for all audio content.

• Video captions: Add accurate captions or subtitles for video content.

• Audio descriptions for video: Provide audio descriptions for visually impaired users.

• Accessible media players: Use media players with keyboard-accessible controls and adjustable playback speeds.

2. Ensure Keyboard Accessibility

• Keyboard navigation: Ensure all site functionality is accessible via a keyboard.

• Logical tab order: Arrange interactive elements in a logical sequence for seamless tabbing.

• Focus indicators: Use visible focus highlights to show where keyboard navigation is currently located.

• “Skip to content” links: Include links to bypass repetitive navigation menus.

3. Maintain Sufficient Colour Contrast

• Contrast ratio compliance: Meet a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.

• Contrast testing: Use tools like the Colour Contrast Analyser to check compliance.

• Avoid colour dependency: Do not rely solely on colour to convey information.

4. Design Accessible Forms

• Clear labels: Add descriptive labels for all form fields.

• Grouped controls: Use fieldsets and legends to group related form elements logically.

• Error handling: Provide specific and actionable error messages to guide users.

• Keyboard navigation: Ensure all form elements can be navigated and submitted via a keyboard.

5. Manage Time-Sensitive Content

• Adjustable time limits: Allow users to extend or disable time limits as needed.

• Warnings before expiration: Notify users when time is about to expire and provide options to extend.

6. Test with Real Users

• User testing: Involve individuals with disabilities in testing to identify pain points.

• Assistive technologies: Test with screen readers, magnifiers, and other assistive tools to ensure compatibility.

7. Provide Consistent Navigation

• Predictable layout: Maintain consistent navigation and layout across all pages.

• Semantic structure: Use proper HTML semantics (e.g., header tags, lists) for better structure and usability.

• ARIA roles: Implement ARIA landmarks to enhance navigation for assistive technology users.

8. Optimise for Mobile Accessibility

• Responsive design: Ensure the site adapts to different devices and screen sizes.

• Touch-friendly elements: Use large, tappable buttons and links for ease of use on mobile.

• Mobile screen reader compatibility: Test mobile versions with screen readers like VoiceOver (macOS) and TalkBack (Android).

9. Provide Feedback Channels

• Accessibility reporting: Add an easy-to-find feedback form or contact option for users to report issues.

• Regular review: Act on feedback promptly to improve accessibility over time.

10. Reduce the Use of Flashing Content

• Avoid seizure risks: Ensure content doesn’t flash more than three times per second.

• Control options: Provide pause, stop, or hide functionality for animated or moving content.