The new Accessibility Improvement Act - What it regulates and who it applies to

We are getting a little bit closer to an inclusive world with the Barrier-Free Strengthening Act (BFSG)! In this blog article, we'll tell you what the new law applies to, whether you have to comply with it and why it makes sense not only from an ethical but also from a business perspective to comply with it under all circumstances.

The Disability Equality Act (BGG) has been the foundation for equal rights for disabled people in our society since the beginning of the 21st century. The Barrier-free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV) also guarantees the barrier-free design of modern information and communication technology.

When will the new Accessibility Reinforcement Act come into force?

The law was promulgated in June 2021, but its requirements apply in principle to all products and services that are placed on the market or provided to consumers after June 28, 2025. There is an additional transitional period of 5 years for existing products and services. In some cases, even longer periods apply to individual products.

What will the new law regulate?

In future, the law will regulate the accessible design of products and services. This includes products such as computers, notebooks, tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, cell phones, ATMs, ticket machines and WLAN routers as well as services such as telephone services, e-books, messenger services, banking services, etc... You can find a complete list of products and services that must be accessible at the Federal Accessibility Agency.

Who has to comply?

The new Accessibility Reinforcement Act applies to all manufacturers, retailers and importers of the listed products as well as providers of the listed services. Micro-enterprises - i.e. companies with fewer than ten employees and a maximum annual turnover of €2 million - that offer services are exempt from the Accessibility Improvement Act. But be careful: this exemption does not apply to micro-enterprises that put products into circulation.

Who benefits from accessibility?

Accessibly designed products and services do not only benefit people with disabilities. People with temporary disabilities, people who are unfamiliar with technology and older people can also benefit from accessible products and services. It therefore makes sense to offer accessible products and services, even if your company is not covered by the law. This will not only open up larger markets and give you a competitive edge, but will also put you in a better position for the future - after all, our society is getting older and older. In this respect, you will only be able to survive on the market in the long term by fully or partially complying with the requirements of the BFSG.

Don't know where to start?

Websites in particular can be designed to be extremely accessible. If you are interested in having us check your website for accessibility and other important requirements, then book a free, 30-minute analysis of your website via this link. We will provide you with specific recommendations for the development of your website. We look forward to hearing from you! :-)

All information without guarantee. Please inform yourself from these sources: The Federal Government Commissioner for Information Technology | Federal Law Gazette | Federal Accessibility Agency | Guidelines for the application of the Accessibility Improvement Act