From June 2025, many businesses in Ireland will need to comply with new accessibility requirements under the European Accessibility Act (EAA), specifically referencing EN 301 549. But what does this actually mean for your organisation in practice?
Here’s a clear, non-technical breakdown:
What is the European Accessibility Act?
The European Accessibility Act aims to make products and services more accessible for people with disabilities across the EU. It covers digital services such as websites, mobile apps, e-commerce platforms, ATMs, e-readers, and certain telecommunication services.
EN 301 549 is the European standard that defines the technical accessibility requirements businesses should follow to comply with the Act.
Who Needs to Comply?
In Ireland, the EAA will apply to:
- E-commerce businesses (online shops).
- Banks and financial service providers.
- Transport companies offering online ticketing.
- Telecom providers.
- Public sector bodies already covered under Irish accessibility laws.
Microenterprises (businesses with fewer than 10 employees and under €2 million turnover) may be exempt in certain areas, but many SMEs and larger businesses will need to comply.
What Are the Core Requirements?
You do not need to become an accessibility engineer to start preparing. Instead, focus on these key responsibilities:
✅ Ensure your websites and mobile apps are perceivable and usable by people with disabilities (e.g., compatible with screen readers, clear navigation, sufficient colour contrast).
✅ Accessible digital products: If you sell or provide digital products (e.g., e-books, online services), these need to be accessible.
✅ Information provided in accessible formats: Instructions, customer support, and user interfaces must be usable by everyone.
✅ Ongoing monitoring and updates: Accessibility is not a one-off project; you will need to maintain compliance as you update your digital services.
EN 301 549 essentially aligns with WCAG 2.1 Level AA, the widely accepted international accessibility guidelines, meaning that if your site meets WCAG 2.1 AA, you are well on your way to meeting EAA requirements.
Why Is This Important?
- Legal compliance: Non-compliance can result in complaints and enforcement actions under Irish law.
- Expanding your customer base: An accessible website and digital products can reach more customers, including the 1 in 7 people in Ireland living with a disability.
- Enhancing your brand reputation: Accessibility shows your commitment to inclusion and corporate responsibility.
- Future-proofing your digital estate: Accessibility improvements improve usability for everyone, reducing bounce rates and improving customer satisfaction.
How Should Your Business Prepare?
- Audit your digital services for accessibility gaps.
- Develop an accessibility plan aligned with EN 301 549 and WCAG 2.1 AA.
- Train your content and development teams on accessibility best practices.
- Work with accessibility specialists to support your compliance where needed.
- Document your efforts to demonstrate due diligence if challenges arise.
What are the benefits for you and your Business?
Expand Your Reach
Over 100 million people across Europe experience some form of disability. Making your website accessible ensures that everyone — including this significant audience — can fully engage with your product or service.
Enhance Overall Usability
Improving accessibility often leads to a smoother, more intuitive user experience for all visitors. A more inclusive interface can increase engagement, reduce friction, and improve your conversion rates.
Improve SEO and Visibility
Accessibility best practices, like using semantic HTML and properly structured content, help search engines better index your site — leading to increased discoverability and organic traffic.
Build Trust and Reputation
Demonstrating accessibility compliance reflects your commitment to quality, inclusivity, and social responsibility. This not only boosts your brand’s reputation but also shows users and stakeholders that you take compliance seriously.
Now
Take Action Now
Ensuring accessibility takes time and planning. By acting now, your business can not only meet its legal obligations under the EU Accessibility Act but also lead in providing inclusive digital experiences for all customers in Ireland.
If you need support assessing your readiness or developing your accessibility plan, reach out, and let’s ensure your digital presence is prepared for the EAA transition.