The Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) has a significant impact on website operators in Germany. Here are the most important points that website operators need to consider:
1. legal obligation for accessibility
Website operators, in particular public bodies and certain private companies, are legally obliged to make their digital content and services accessible. This means that all users, including people with disabilities, must be able to access the information and functions on an equal footing.
2. application to different areas
The BFSG applies not only to websites, but also to mobile applications and other digital offerings. Website operators must ensure that all digital touchpoints are accessible.
3. compliance with standards
The law is based on EU Directive 2019/882 and refers to international standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. Website operators must implement these standards in order to meet the requirements of the BFSG.
4. barrier-free design
Website operators must ensure that their websites comply with the following accessibility principles:
- Perceivability: Content must be presented in such a way that it can be perceived by all users. This includes, for example, alternative texts for images and subtitles for videos.
- Usability: All functions of the website must be operable with various input methods, including keyboard and screen reader.
- Comprehensibility: Information and user interfaces should be easy to understand and intuitive to use.
- Robustness: Content must be interpretable by a variety of user agents, including assistive technologies.
5. regular checks
Website operators should carry out regular audits and tests to ensure the accessibility of their digital offerings. This can be done through internal audits or by using external service providers and tools.
6. documentation and reporting
Public bodies and larger companies must publish reports on the accessibility status of their digital offerings. These reports should document in detail what measures have been taken and how accessibility is being implemented.
7. user feedback and continuous improvement
Website operators should set up mechanisms to receive feedback from users. This can be done through accessible contact forms or hotlines. The feedback should be used to make continuous improvements to accessibility.
8. training and sensitization
Employees involved in the development and maintenance of websites and digital content should be regularly trained to understand and implement accessibility requirements.
9. penalties and consequences
Failure to comply with the BFSG may result in legal consequences and financial penalties. Website operators should therefore ensure that they comply with the legal requirements in order to avoid possible sanctions.
Conclusion
The Accessibility Reinforcement Act places a significant obligation on website operators to make their digital offerings inclusive and accessible to all. By complying with the legal requirements and implementing best practices, website operators can not only avoid legal consequences, but also reach a broader user base and increase user satisfaction.
