European standard of Accessibility requirements EAA / EN 301 549
What Is EN 301 549?
EN 301 549 is a European standard that sets accessibility requirements for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) products and services. It’s part of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) and applies to everything from websites and mobile apps to software, hardware, and telecommunications.
The goal: Make sure all digital tools and content are accessible to people with disabilities across Europe.
Why EN 301 549 Matters for Web Accessibility
EN 301 549 plays a major role in improving digital inclusion across the EU. It specifically applies to:
- Public sector websites and apps
- Private companies selling digital services in the EU market
- ICT products like software, hardware, and operating systems
To meet these standards, most organizations are expected to follow WCAG 2.1 or WCAG 2.2, depending on local implementation. This ensures websites are accessible to users with visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive impairments.
EN 301 549 and WCAG: How They Work Together
EN 301 549 doesn’t replace WCAG-it builds on it. The standard refers to specific WCAG success criteria and explains how to apply them to ICT products and services.
By aligning with WCAG, businesses and public sector bodies ensure their websites and technologies:
- Work across devices and platforms
- Support screen readers, keyboard users, and other assistive tech
- Meet legal and ethical standards for accessibility
Key Principles of EN 301 549 Compliance
Content Accessibility: Make sure all digital content is accessible. Add alternative text for images and non-text content.
Structural Clarity: Use semantic HTML to organize headings, paragraphs, and lists in a logical order.
Keyboard Navigation: Allow users to navigate and interact with your site using only a keyboard.
Visual Contrast: Use high-contrast color combinations to make text easy to read for people with low vision or color blindness.
Simplified Explanation of EN 301 549
This video offers a clear summary of how EN 301 549 ensures digital accessibility. It simplifies the fundamental principles, making them understandable to all viewers.
Key Principles of EN 301 549 Compliance
Content Accessibility
Ensure all digital content is accessible. Use alternative text for non-text elements.
Structural Clarity
Organize content logically using semantic HTML.
Keyboard Navigation
Enable full keyboard functionality for all website features.
Visual Contrast
Ensure text and background colors have sufficient contrast for readability.
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