Prepare Your TYPO3 Website for European Accessibility Laws

Accessibility isn't just about ramps and elevators; it's about making websites usable for everyone, regardless of ability. Web accessibility is as important as the real accessible world. Think of it like this: if a building needs to be accessible, shouldn't your website be too? Unfortunately, the deadline is near; now it's time to ensure your digital space is as accessible as your physical one.

Ready to take action? Let's understand why this is meant for you!

What is BGG?

BGG (Gesetzzur Gleichstellungvon Menschen mit Behinderungen) is Germany's Act on Equal Opportunities for Disabled Persons, similar to the ADA in the USA. Originally focused on physical accessibility, later on was expanded to include digital spaces through BITV 2.0.

What is BITV?

BITV is a German regulation, short for Barrierefreie InformationsTechnik Verordnung (Eng - Barrier Free Information Technology Regulation/Ordinance). It follows the WCAG 2.1 standards to ensure accessibility to internet technologies. BITV is simply Germany's digital handshake to inclusivity, covering websites, apps, and IT systems. On the other hand, it is based on the Equal Opportunities Act(BGG) and purposely extends accessibility from physical spaces to public sector websites and mobile apps.

What does BITV 2.0 cover?

BITV 2.0 isn't just about websites. It also covers accessibility for:

• Hardware: Computers, mobile devices, servers.
• Software: Apps, operating systems, programming tools.
• Services: Web hosting, ISPs, and cloud computing.

Organizations offering products and services within the EU, including:

• Private businesses (e.g., e-commerce, banking, transport).
• Public sector bodies (government websites and services).
• Digital platforms providing content, tools, or online services.

Compliance applies to websites, mobile apps, and digital content to ensure accessibility for all, including people with disabilities.

Who needs to follow EAA Guidelines?

Almost every business that sells goods or services in the EU needs to comply with this accessibility act. Even those outside Europe who rarely provide shipping services too come into consideration while following the EAA's accessibility requirements.

A few exceptions include the following:

• Microenterprises: Small companies with fewer than 10 employees and under €2M turnover.
• Undue Burden: Companies face significant technical or financial barriers, provided they prove compliance could be more practical.

Who needs to follow BFSG Guidelines?

Primarily public sector bodies-government agencies, schools, libraries, and hospitals. But here's the kicker: under the BFSG (BarriereFreiheit StärkungsGesetz, or Accessibility Strengthening Act), by June 2025, private businesses offering digital goods and services (think ATMs, ticket machines, e-commerce) will also need to comply-or risk fines up to €100,000.

Disclaimer: "This text is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice. For legal matters, consult a qualified professional in the relevant field."

Non-compliance with the European Accessibility Act (EAA) isn't just a bad look-it can hit where it hurts most: your wallet, reputation, and ability to do business.

What you might be risking? Let's break it down:

• Fines and Financial Loss
  ManyEU countries enforce heavy fines. The amount depends on the violation's seriousness, the size of your business, and the number of people impacted. Ignoring accessibility can cost you a lot.
• Legal Trouble
  This could result in imprisonment of key decision makers because of repeated violation of some areas. And then, lawsuits, legal fees, and settlements can pile up quickly.
• Reputational Damage
  Peoplewith disabilities represent massive purchasing power. Your products or services do not cater to them, and they will go elsewhere for their money worth - they are not the only segment, either. Bad publicity and public perception account for unsatisfied customers across the board.
• No Government Contracts
  Want to work with the government? Accessibility is non-negotiable. Again, this could keep you from some lucrative contracts.

But wait-there's good news!

The EAA includes alternative dispute resolution mechanisms – a fancy way of saying authorities might give you a chance to fix the issues before penalties kick in. Use that time wisely, and you can turn it around.

The clock is ticking!

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) takes effect on June 28, 2025, marking the deadline. This isn't just a legal milestone-it's a wake-up call for businesses to ensure their digital presence is inclusive and accessible to everyone. If your website isn't compliant by this time, you'll be risking penalties. Unfortunately, you're missing out on the opportunity to reach a broader, more diverse audience.

Start early to reduce stress, save costs, and navigate the learning curve.

Do an accessibility audit, list the improvements, and prioritize them, such as keyboard navigation and alt text. Use TYPO3 tools like Accesstive and test it with real users for better feedback. Proactive compliance avoids penalties while making things easier and better for your company's reputation, showing its commitment to inclusivity and readiness in the law.

For everyone, including persons with disabilities, accessibility guarantees equal access to digital spaces. Beyond being legally compliant with EAA and BITV 2.0, accessible websites improve user experience, boost search engine rankings while increasing user engagement. However, non-compliance can lead to penalties, legal risks, and reputational damage. Rather than this, accessibility opens up avenues of trust and inclusiveness and facilitates reaching global audiences while adding value to any brand. It's a smart, ethical, and necessary move for any organization.

Sometimes, full accessibility can seem impossible, given the considerations one has to take into account, such as:

• Keyboard navigation
• Alternative text for images
• Video captions
• Use of clear and simple language

But don't let these factors stop you! 
There are many tools and resources out there to provide true accessibility for your site.

TYPO3 CMS is designed with flexibility and inclusivity in mind. 
Here's how TYPO3 accessibility simplifies compliance:

• Built-in Accessibility Features: TYPO3 has native tools to support accessible design, such as semantic HTML structures, customizable templates, and ARIA attributes.
• Accessibility-Focused Extensions: Tools like Accesstive, T3AI and TYPO3 accessibility extensions help automate processes like text-to-speech, color contrast checks, and multimedia captioning.
• Content Management Efficiency: TYPO3's user-friendly backend ensures that editors can easily follow best practices, such as adding alt text for images or structuring content logically.
• Compliance with Standards: TYPO3 complies with WCAG and BITV 2.0 guidelines, making it easier for businesses to meet EAA requirements.
• Scalability: TYPO3's modular system allows gradual and scalable accessibility enhancements.
• Community Support: TYPO3's vibrant community offers resources, updates, and expert advice to stay in sync with TYPO3 accessibility standards.

With TYPO3, achieving and maintaining accessibility becomes an efficient and manageable process, helping you deliver an inclusive digital experience for all users.

Making your website accessible it's not a one time task, but a continuous process which has to be performed in a specific time cycle from users' experience data. Start aligning with compliance now to meet the 2025 EAA deadline without stress.
Here's how:

• Make Accessibility a Habit: Keep improving your site regularly and address new user needs.
• Use TYPO3's Tools: Monitor in real-time to catch and fix issues quickly.
• Stay Updated: Use backend auto-update notifications to keep up with updates and enhancements for TYPO3 upgrade services.

With these steps, your website will be future-ready, offering a seamless and inclusive experience for everyone.

Disclaimer: "This tool enhances website accessibility but doesn't guarantee full legal compliance. Additional steps like audits and legal advice may be required."

Preparing for the EAA is not just about avoiding penalties-it's about creating a web that's truly accessible to everyone. By following these steps and using TYPO3's powerful tools, you can make sure your website is accessible, compliant, and future-ready.

Start now, and by June 28th, 2025, you'll be progressive. After all, accessibility isn't just a law-it's a chance to make the web a better place for all.

Are you ready to make your website accessible to everyone? Let's do it together!
Connect with Stefan Reinhardt at NITSAN for expert guidance and take the first step towards creating a more inclusive and accessible digital presence!