Website Accessibility Services in Nova Scotia
Meeting Website Accessibility Requirements in Nova Scotia
Those in Nova Scotia operating websites are being urged to consider accessibility guidelines designed to give equal access to websites. If you're a Nova Scotia business, nonprofit or public sector organization interested in website accessibility services, then you've come to the right place.
What must you do?
But what exactly does this mean for you? Nova Scotia enacted the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act (Bill 59) in April 2017, which charts a course towards a more inclusive and barrier-free Nova Scotia by 2030. It focuses on six critical domains ranging from goods and services to education. While this legislation is broad now, ensuring an accessible website is still the right thing to do. Now only that, but it also helps boost search and can positively influence KPI's.
Here, we offer information you need to make an informed decision about meeting web accessibility requirements. We also hope to partner with you if you're ready to start planning your project. We love helping those like you on improvements related to website accessibility.
How can we help?
Through website accessibility audits, targeted design change recommendations, and meta content writing or rewriting, we can help bring your website into compliance. By demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we can build a more accessible and equitable digital future for all.
FAQs
What is the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act?
Passed in April 2017, the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act, or Bill 59, aims to create an inclusive and barrier-free Nova Scotia by 2030. It focuses on developing standards in six areas: goods and services, information and communication, transportation, employment, built environment, and education.
What are the goals of the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act?
The goals of Bill 59 include ensuring equitable access to goods and services for people with disabilities, making the education system accessible to all students, and ensuring all people can receive, understand, and share information they need.
Will the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act apply to websites?
Yes, the Act includes provisions for digital accessibility, specifically under the “information and communication” standard. This will likely mean some requirements for general web accessibility, with compliance requirements for websites expected to be based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).
What are the fines for non-compliance with the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act?
Organizations or individuals who fail to comply with the Act’s standards may be subject to fines up to $250,000.
What is the timeline for compliance with the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act?
Compliance timelines differ for each of the six components of the Act. The government of Nova Scotia is working towards achieving compliance gradually over the next decade.
What standards does the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act establish?
The Act establishes six accessibility standards, including information and communication, which covers website accessibility. The Government of Nova Scotia’s accessibility plan prioritizes the development of a more inclusive website meeting WCAG 2.0 AA requirements.
Does the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act require WCAG compliance?
While specific standards are still under development, it is expected that the Act will require WCAG 2.0 AA compliance for websites and digital content.
What is the role of the Accessibility Advisory Board in the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act?
The Accessibility Advisory Board is responsible for creating standards in the six areas outlined by the Act. The Board includes members with disabilities, business leaders, and other key stakeholders.
How is the government supporting organizations in complying with the Act?
The government is providing education and support to organizations required to comply with the Act, including targeted outreach about deadlines and requirements, resources, and training.
What is Nova Scotia’s plan to lead by example in accessibility?
The Government of Nova Scotia has introduced a multi-year accessibility plan, focusing on areas like awareness and capacity building, and information and communications, including website accessibility. The plan emphasizes collaboration and support, compliance and enforcement, monitoring and evaluation, and leading by example.
