What is BS EN 301549 about?  

BS EN 301549 covers a wide range of requirements for a variety of ICT solutions. It is relevant for all organizations who buy, develop or manufacture ICT products or services. The present document specifies the functional accessibility requirements applicable to ICT products and services, together with a description of the test procedures and evaluation methodology for each accessibility requirement in a form that is suitable for use in public procurement within Europe.

BS EN 301549 is intended to be used with web-based technologies, non-web technologies, and hybrids that use both. It covers both software and hardware as well as services.

BS EN 301549 includes background information, the scope of the standard, and links to other standards, definitions, and explanations of abbreviations.

Who is BS EN 301549? 

BS EN 301549 on accessibility requirements for ICT products and services is applicable to: 

ICT product manufacturers
End consumers
ICT product developers
ICT service providers

Why should you use BS EN 301549?  

BS EN 301549 is intended for use by both providers and procurers, but it is expected that it will also be of use to many others as well. BS EN 301549 explains the functionality that is needed to enable users with different abilities to locate, identify and operate functions in technology.

BS EN 301549 provides additional resources related to improving accessibility for users with limited cognitive, language, and learning abilities.

BS EN 301549 provides an overview and simple explanation of the structure of the present document, including an explanation of how it can be used.

BS EN 301549 provides specific testable criteria for accessible ICT, related to technical requirements for different kinds of ICT, starting with generic requirements.

What’s changed since the last update? 

BS EN 301549:2021 supersedes BS EN 301549:2019, which is withdrawn.

The significant changes since BS EN 301549:2019 are:

The requirements related to Real-Time Text (RTT) have been revised and extended
“Further resources for cognitive accessibility”, has been added
"Guidance for users of the present document" has been added.
"Change history" has been added.

BS EN 301549:2021

Accessibility requirements for ICT products and services

Current

Published:

30 Jun 2021