Why Accessibility Matters Now – The European Accessibility Act (EAA) took effect in June 2025 and is already shaping how businesses must operate online. This legislation requires websites, apps, and other digital services offered in the EU to be accessible to all users, including people with disabilities.
The standard you must meet is WCAG 2.2 Level AA, developed by the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) under the W3C. In Ireland, the technical requirement is EN 301 549.
Who needs to comply?
- If your business has 10+ employees and an annual turnover above €2 million, compliance is mandatory.
- Smaller businesses are legally exempt – but choosing to comply brings clear advantages: better user experience, improved SEO, and a stronger brand reputation.
What Is Web Accessibility?
Web accessibility ensures your website works for everyone – regardless of ability. It involves designing and developing your site so that users with visual, auditory, cognitive, physical, or neurological impairments can easily interact with your content.
Key elements include:
- Clear navigation and logical structure
- Alt text and descriptive content for images and media
- Strong colour contrast and readable typography
- Keyboard and screen reader compatibility
- Regular audits and updates as standards evolve
The Risks of Ignoring Accessibility
Non-compliance is more than a missed opportunity – it’s a legal and reputational risk. Penalties can include fines of up to €60,000, imprisonment, or both, with liability extending to directors and managers.
Beyond legal risk, inaccessible websites damage trust, reduce audience reach, and may harm your search engine rankings.
The Risks of Ignoring Accessibility
By embracing accessibility, you:
- Expand your audience – reach millions more users, including older customers and those with disabilities.
- Boost SEO and performance – accessible websites are often faster and rank better.
- Enhance your brand – show leadership in inclusivity and social responsibility.
Our Accessibility Process in 4 Clear Steps
At Splash, we make accessibility simple:
- Audit – We assess your current website against WCAG 2.2 AA guidelines and identify barriers.
- Redesign – We create inclusive design solutions to improve usability and meet compliance.
- Development – Our team implements the required technical changes and ensures compatibility across devices and assistive technologies.
- Ongoing Support – Accessibility isn’t “set and forget”. We offer monitoring and updates to keep you compliant as regulations evolve.
Ready to Make Your Website Accessible?
Accessibility protects your business, grows your audience, and strengthens your brand. Whether you need a full audit or a redesign, Splash can help you meet WCAG 2.2 AA standards with confidence.
Book a call today to start your journey to compliance.
