We welcomed 2017 with a new charter, in the evolution of WCAG i.e. WCAG 2.1 and a refreshed Section 508 which took a formal effect from January 2018. It’s an exciting time again for the world of accessibility!
The Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the accessibility of the websites and mobile applications of public sector bodies has been transposed into national law in all EU member states by September 23 2018. The directive requires all the state, regional, local authorities and public sector bodies to ensure their websites and mobile applications are accessible by making them ‘perceivable, operable, understandable and robust’. (4 principles of accessibility)
What is EN 301 549 Standard?
The directive references the incorporation of the EN 301 549 Standard which sets out the accessibility requirements suitable for public procurement of ICT products and services in Europe. EN 301 549 Standard which was published 4 years ago, is the first ever European standard for digital accessibility. The chapters in the standard refer to W3C recommended WCAG 2.0, Level AA.
The Directive requires every public sector website developed after September 23, 2018 to be in compliance with the new regulation. Existing public sector websites to comply by September 23, 2020 and mobile applications by June 23, 2021.
Although the directive refers to public sector bodies, the new law would have a significant impact on private sector too. Vendor companies selling their products or services to the public sector will have to ensure that they comply to the new regulation. So, no matter which part of the world you are, if you are looking to do business with any European organization, you will have to ensure that your products and services comply to the EN 301 549 standard.
Are you ready for the Directive?
With expertise in WCAG 2.0 and Section 508 accessibility standards and guidelines, BarrierBreak works with clients in the US, UK, European, Canadian & Middle Eastern markets to integrate accessibility into the product development life cycle. No matter what the level of your accessibility commitment as an organization is, we can help achieve sustainable results.
Get in touch should you need more details about the EN 301 549 standards. Call us at +91-022 26860485/6 or write to us sales@barrierbreak.com to know how we can support you with EN 301 549.