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The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is transforming accessibility standards across the EU. With deadlines fast approaching—June 28, 2025 for new products/services and June 28, 2030 for all others—businesses must act now to ensure compliance. This guide explores key aspects of the EAA and how organizations can prepare.
What Is the EAA?
Adopted by the EU to promote inclusivity, the EAA sets unified accessibility standards for products and services. It focuses on functional accessibility rather than prescribing specific technical solutions.
Who Is Affected?
The EAA applies to:
- EU-Based Businesses: Companies with at least 10 employees and €2 million annual turnover.
- Non-EU Businesses: Any organization selling goods/services accessible to EU consumers must comply.
Scope of Coverage
The EAA spans multiple sectors:
- Banking services
- Computer hardware/software
- Transportation
- Telecommunications
- E-commerce platforms
Compliance Requirements
To meet EAA standards, businesses must:
- Adhere to EN 301 549 technical guidelines.
- Provide accessibility statements.
- Conduct regular audits.
- Train employees on accessibility best practices.
Enforcement
EU member states will oversee compliance through designated bodies. Penalties include fines up to €1 million or removal of non-compliant products/services from the market.
Benefits of Compliance
While non-compliance risks penalties, meeting EAA standards offers significant advantages:
- Access to new markets.
- Enhanced brand reputation.
- Improved customer experience.
FirstSpirit’s Role in Accessibility
FirstSpirit DQM tool simplifies compliance with automated WCAG testing and VPAT generation. Combined with expert accessibility services, it provides a holistic solution for businesses preparing for the EAA deadlines.
Conclusion
The European Accessibility Act is a landmark directive promoting inclusivity across the EU. By acting now, businesses can avoid penalties while unlocking new opportunities in an increasingly accessible market.