28 Jul New EU accessibility legislation comes into force
The 28th June saw the new European Accessibility Act come into force. It sets out accessibility standards for digital-based products and services including computers and operating systems, payment terminals, telecommunications and consumer banking.
Its aim is to improve accessibility for the millions of disabled people in the EU by applying the same accessibility requirements throughout the Union. It also removes any barriers to free-movement for the products and services that divergent national legislation may have created.
The legislation is concerned with digital provisions and not those where transactions take place between individuals.
Using transport as an example, the EAA would apply to digital terminals that passengers use to buy a ticket or check-in. When it comes to hearing accessibility, the EAA states that any terminals offering an auditory mode of communication should have enhanced audio features to help those with hearing loss to use them.
The Act states that those could include integrated hearing loop technology that provides hearing aid users with clear sound and cuts out background noise.
Similarly, the new EAA states that help points on a station platform, a self-service till in a shop or an intercom system in an elevator are required to have integrated hearing loop technology to help hearing aid users.
There is leeway to comply with the new legislation by 2030 for those services already in operation, but the Act is in force for any new installations.
You can find the full document here or talk to the Contacta distributor in your country.
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