Driving the news:
In a major step forward for accessibility, Accessibility Standards Canada (ASC) , the federal governmental organization responsible for developing and implementing accessibility standards under the Accessible Canada Act (ACA), has officially adopted the European standard EN 301 549:2021, specifically tailored for information and communication technologies (ICT), on May 31, 2024. This standard has been adopted and implemented across Europe for nearly a decade, with various updates enhancing its applicability.
EN 301 549: 2021 is globally recognized for removing digital barriers for people with disabilities and covers a range of technologies, including software, mobile apps, websites, and even biometrics. With respect to digital accessibility compliance, EN 301 549 adopted the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA in its 2018 update. This means that Canada’s adoption of EN 301 549 requires compliance with WCAG 2.1, Level AA, integrating internationally recognized guidelines for digital accessibility into its national framework.
ASC has launched this European standard as a National Standard of Canada under the code CAN/ASC – EN 301 549:2024. This significant move for accessibility in Canada integrates global best practices already utilized by over 30 countries.
Creating a Canada without barriers:
The ACA establishes a framework to proactively identify, remove, and prevent barriers in areas under federal jurisdiction. The Act aims to improve accessibility and ensure consistent experiences across Canada by January 1, 2040. It involves three key players: Accessibility Standards Canada, the Chief Accessibility Officer, and the Accessibility Commissioner. These entities work together to systematically address and enhance accessibility within the federal sector.
The CAN/ASC – EN 301 549:2024 is a voluntary standard for organizations under federal jurisdiction, including parliamentary bodies, federal courts and tribunals, government departments, the Canadian Armed Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and certain private sector organizations in transportation, broadcasting, telecommunications, and banking. ASC will recommend that the standard be adopted as a regulation, so it becomes enforceable.
Canada’s approach to adopting CAN/ASC – EN 301 549:2024 sets a precedent and ASC has actively worked to incorporate diverse perspectives into creating this new standard. As part of the decision-making process, ASC leaned on the first-hand experiences of people with disabilities and those from marginalized groups to ensure the standard is as fair and inclusive as possible.
The composition of ASC’s technical committees reflects their commitment to inclusivity: 50% of the members are individuals living with a disability, and 70% are from underrepresented groups such as women, visible minorities, 2SLGBTQI+ folks, and Indigenous Peoples. This diverse representation has been fundamental to adopting a digital accessibility standard that resonates with everyone.
CAN/ASC – EN 301 549:2024 is also being offered free of charge for all Canadians, in both official languages – English and French, demonstrating the country’s dedication to ensuring that ICT services are accessible to all, no matter their abilities.
“As a National Standard of Canada, the ICT standard reflects our commitment to accessibility” states Philip Rizcallah, CEO of Accessibility Standards Canada. “By recognizing the barriers faced by people with disabilities and acknowledging the importance of inclusive design, we aim to raise awareness and promote action.”
Looking forward:
With such committed leadership and a clear legislative and standards framework, Canada is well on its way to becoming a barrier-free nation by its 2040 deadline. This initiative promotes ICT accessibility and reinforces Canada’s position as a leader in creating inclusive digital spaces. EN 301 549:2024, which includes compliance with WCAG 2.1, Level AA, applies to federal organizations, including parliamentary bodies, federal courts, government departments, the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCMP, and private sector organizations in transportation, broadcasting, telecommunications, and banking. This measure ensures a consistent approach to accessibility across various sectors required to comply with the ACA.
