Accessibility Statement

1. Accessibility Standards

1.1 Compliance Level

We strive to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards. These guidelines help make web content more accessible to people with disabilities including:

• Visual impairments (blindness, low vision, color blindness)
• Hearing impairments (deafness, hard of hearing)
• Motor impairments (limited fine motor control)
• Cognitive disabilities (learning disabilities, memory impairments)

1.2 Accessibility Features

Our website includes the following accessibility features:

• Semantic HTML structure with proper headings hierarchy
• Alternative text for images and icons
• Keyboard navigation support for all interactive elements
• High contrast color ratios for text readability
• Responsive design that works across devices and screen sizes
• ARIA labels and landmarks for screen readers
• Focus indicators for keyboard navigation
• Scalable text that can be enlarged up to 200% without loss of functionality

2. Assistive Technology Support

2.1 Screen Reader Compatibility

Our website is designed to work with popular screen readers including:

• NVDA (NonVisual Desktop Access) - Windows
• JAWS (Job Access With Speech) - Windows
• VoiceOver - macOS and iOS
• TalkBack - Android
• Narrator - Windows

2.2 Browser Compatibility

Our accessible features are tested and supported on:

• Chrome (latest 2 versions)
• Firefox (latest 2 versions)
• Safari (latest 2 versions)
• Edge (latest 2 versions)

2.3 Keyboard Navigation

All functionality is available via keyboard using:

• Tab: Navigate forward through interactive elements
• Shift + Tab: Navigate backward through interactive elements
• Enter/Space: Activate buttons and links
• Arrow keys: Navigate within components like menus
• Escape: Close modals and dropdowns

3. Design for Inclusion

3.1 Visual Design

• Color Contrast: All text meets WCAG AA standards (4.5:1 ratio minimum)
• Color Independence: Information is not conveyed by color alone
• Text Size: Readable fonts with appropriate sizing
• Visual Hierarchy: Clear heading structure and content organization
• Focus Indicators: Visible focus states for all interactive elements

3.2 Content Structure

• Headings: Proper heading hierarchy (H1, H2, H3, etc.)
• Lists: Structured lists for grouped information
• Tables: Proper table headers and captions
• Forms: Clear labels and error messages
• Links: Descriptive link text that makes sense out of context

3.3 Interactive Elements

• All buttons and links are focusable and clearly labeled
• Form controls have associated labels
• Error messages are clearly announced to screen readers
• Success messages provide appropriate feedback

4. Accessibility Testing

4.1 Testing Methods

We regularly test our website accessibility using:

• Automated Testing: WAVE, axe-core, Lighthouse accessibility audits
• Manual Testing: Keyboard navigation, screen reader testing
• User Testing: Feedback from users with disabilities
• Expert Reviews: Professional accessibility audits

4.2 Continuous Improvement

• Monthly accessibility audits of all pages
• Regular updates based on user feedback
• Staff training on accessibility best practices
• Integration of accessibility testing in development process

5. Known Limitations

5.1 Current Limitations

We are aware of the following accessibility limitations and are working to address them:

• Some third-party embedded content may not be fully accessible
• Complex animations may not respect reduced motion preferences (being addressed)
• Some PDF documents may require accessibility improvements

5.2 Planned Improvements

• Enhanced reduced motion support (Q1 2025)
• Additional screen reader optimization (Q1 2025)
• Voice navigation support (Q2 2025)
• High contrast mode toggle (Q2 2025)

6. Alternative Access Methods

6.1 Multiple Contact Options

We provide multiple ways to access our support services:

• Phone Support: Speak directly with our accessibility-trained support team
• Email Support: Written correspondence for complex issues
• Text Relay: Available for hearing-impaired users
• Video Call: Sign language interpretation available upon request

6.2 Document Formats

Upon request, we can provide information in alternative formats:

• Large print documents
• High contrast versions
• Screen reader-optimized formats
• Audio descriptions for visual content

7. Feedback and Support

7.1 Accessibility Feedback

We welcome feedback about the accessibility of our website. If you encounter accessibility barriers, please contact us:

7.2 Response Commitment

• We will respond to accessibility feedback within 3 business days
• We will provide alternative access within 5 business days if needed
• We will prioritize fixing accessibility barriers
• We will follow up to ensure issues are resolved satisfactorily

7.3 Accommodation Requests

If you need specific accommodations to access our services, please let us know. We will work with you to find suitable solutions including:

• Alternative communication methods
• Extended time for complex processes
• Simplified navigation or content
• Personal assistance during support sessions

8. Legal Framework

8.1 Compliance Standards

Our accessibility efforts align with:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA
• EN 301 549 (European Standard)

8.2 Regular Audits

We conduct formal accessibility audits:

• Quarterly internal accessibility reviews
• Annual third-party accessibility audits
• Continuous monitoring with automated tools
• User testing with disability community

9. Training and Awareness

9.1 Staff Training

Our team receives regular training on:

• Disability awareness and etiquette
• Accessible design principles
• Assistive technology basics
• Inclusive communication practices

9.2 Development Standards

Our development team follows accessibility-first practices:

• Accessibility considerations in all design decisions
• Regular code reviews for accessibility compliance
• Automated accessibility testing in CI/CD pipeline
• Manual testing with assistive technologies

10. Resources and Tools

10.1 Helpful Resources

For users seeking to improve their own accessibility experience:

• Browser Settings: Most browsers have built-in accessibility features
• Operating System: Windows, macOS, and Linux have accessibility tools
• Extensions: Browser extensions can enhance accessibility
• Assistive Technology: Screen readers, magnifiers, and voice recognition software

10.2 Quick Access Tips