Accessibility include the following : Websites and mobile apps must comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines ( WCAG ). E-books and e-readers must support assistive technologies like screen readers . E-commerce platforms must ensure accessible navigation and transactions .
Getting familiar with the Act and its requirements is essential for event professionals active in the EU countries . And it ’ s best to start doing that now . Trying to add accessibility changes when an event is a long way into its preparation is never a wise move . To be properly effective , planning for accessibility has to start at the very beginning .
Vendors and partners will need to demonstrate that they meet accessibility requirements . The EAA presents an opportunity to embed inclusiveness into the DNA of event design , creating a more equitable experience for all participants . Surely , that can only be a good thing .
UK-based EventWell ( a neurodivergent-led not-for-profit organisation ) chief executive Helen Moon believes that legislation is a
Johnny D Martinez
Conduct a venue accessibility audit
Before booking a venue , conduct a thorough accessibility audit . If operationg in the EU , you must evaluate its compliance with the EAA . It ’ s not enough to simply add a ramp or two . Make sure to check , assess , and test all of these ( and remember , this is not an exhaustive list ):
• Step-free access and lifts
• Toilet accessibility
• Parking and transport links
• Hearing loop availability and assistive technologies
• Emergency exit plans that include individuals with disabilities
• Changes needed for specific events , such as reserved seating for individuals with disabilities or temporary ramp instalations
• Support services , such as hiring interpreters or arranging for mobility equipment rentals
• Floor plans highlighting accessible routes
• Policies for accommodating service animals
• Availability of trained staff to assist attendees with disabilities
• Access to enough charging points for mobility devices
• Functionality of assistive listening systems and lifts .
powerful tool to ensure inclusivity across the events industry . She says : “ There is no universal mandate , leaving accessibility inconsistent . Legislation could set minimum standards for events to meet sensory and emotional accessibility requirements , similar to how physical accessibility laws have driven the inclusion of ramps and lifts .” What the legislation does bring to the forefront of people ’ s minds is the importance of accessibility , and in events this can mean a re-think for many planners .
Johnny D Martinez , chair of the Events Industry Council APEX Commission , believes some accessibility requirements are easy to fix . He comments : “ An easy way to improve your website ’ s accessibility is to add descriptive alt text to every image . This allows screen readers to interpret the image content for users with visual impairments , enhancing their experience . Another quick win is adding AIgenerated subtitles or captions to any live stream or pre-recorded video uploaded on socials or hosted on your site .”
Sammy Connell
Opportunity and income Accessible events open the door to opportunity and income . Attention to accessibility can be a great way to communicate your brand values . Apart from enhancing brand reputation and encouraging accessibility ambassadors to become raving fans , which is just the right thing to do , it makes sound commercial sense .
If we ’ re not communicating in ways that welcome everyone to our events and make the experience of attending just as easy for all our attendees , we ’ re effectively excluding many people . We have the ability and the knowledge to become more accessible and welcoming . It ’ s time to do it without being told we have to . n
ISSUE 135 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / 47