Accessibility Policy
Introduction
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) is committed to providing an inclusive digital environment that allows everyone, including people with disabilities and the elderly, to access our digital platforms and services. This policy aims to ensure equal access for all users by adopting advanced technologies and supporting assistive tools in compliance with local regulations and international accessibility standards.
Policy Objectives
This policy aims to:
1. Ensure that HRSD’s digital platforms and services are accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities.
2. Promote inclusivity through the use of innovative technologies that facilitate access to information and services for people with disabilities and the elderly.
3. Comply with local regulations and global best practices, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, while integrating additional tools and technologies to support accessibility.
Scope
This policy applies to:
• All websites, applications, and digital services provided by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
• HRSD employees, contractors, and service providers involved in the design, development, or maintenance of HRSD digital services.
• Any new or modified digital services provided by HRSD.
Key Principles
The Accessibility Policy is based on the following principles:
1. Perceivability: Ensure that all content and user interface elements are presented in ways that all users can perceive.
2. Operability: Design interfaces to be user-friendly and compatible with assistive technologies.
3. Understandability: Ensure that content and interfaces are easy to understand and interact with, regardless of users' cognitive abilities.
4. Robustness: Ensure that content is robust and can be accessed by various assistive technologies, enabling content to remain accessible even as technology evolves.
Accessibility Standards
HRSD is committed to the following standards to enhance accessibility:
1. Compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AAA: All digital services of HRSD adhere to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at Level AAA to ensure accessibility for all individuals, including the elderly and people with disabilities.
2. Compatibility with Assistive Tools: HRSD’s digital platforms support a wide range of assistive technologies, including screen readers and magnifiers, ensuring that users with disabilities and the elderly can interact with the platforms effectively.
3. Regular Audits: Regular audits will be conducted to assess accessibility performance, ensuring continuous compliance and ongoing improvements.
Embedded Technologies to Support Accessibility
• Text Alternatives: Text alternatives should be provided for every non-text element (such as images, audio, and video) to facilitate access for visually impaired users.
• High Contrast: Ensure a contrast ratio of 7:1 for text readability, aiding users with low vision.
• Text Resizing: Users should be able to resize text up to 200% without loss of content or functionality.
• Accessible Navigation: Websites should provide intuitive navigation and support keyboard-based browsing for easier access by users.
Assistive Tools
• Text Readers: A text-reading feature should be incorporated to convert content into audible formats for visually impaired users.
• Speech Input: Voice-activated search and site navigation should be enabled to support users with physical limitations.
• Adjustable Contrast: Users should be able to enable high-contrast modes to improve readability.
• Font Adjustment: Users should be allowed to modify font sizes across the site to facilitate easier reading.
• Sign Language Support: Sign language support should be provided to enhance the user experience by offering assistance that aligns with the needs of individuals who use this language.
Mobile-Friendly Design
• Responsive Design: The site must be fully responsive, adapting seamlessly to desktop, tablet, and mobile devices.
• Touch-Friendly Interface: Buttons, menus, and forms should be designed to be easily accessible on touchscreen devices.
Roles and Responsibilities
• Digital Governance Team: Oversees the implementation of this policy and ensures that all digital services comply with accessibility standards.
• Development Teams: Responsible for designing and developing digital services with accessibility in mind, following international and local standards.
• Content Creators: Ensure that all content published on HRSD’s digital platforms is accessible, using practices such as adding alternative text for images and captions for videos.
• External Vendors: Vendors must comply with HRSD’s accessibility standards when providing services or developing digital solutions.
• HRSD Employees: All staff involved in content development and service design will be trained on accessibility standards and guidelines to ensure compliance.
User Feedback and Support
HRSD encourages users to report any accessibility issues they encounter. Several channels are available for users to provide feedback and suggestions, including:
• Support Hotline: 19911
Commitment to Continuous Improvement
HRSD is committed to continuously improving the accessibility of its digital services. To achieve this, we will:
1. Regularly review and update this policy to ensure it remains in line with technological advancements and emerging best practices.
2. Conduct periodic audits and reviews to assess and enhance accessibility on our platforms.
3. Embrace innovation by adopting new technologies and methods that support accessibility.
Compliance and Monitoring
HRSD will actively monitor the application of this policy through regular assessments and reviews. Any gaps in compliance will be addressed promptly, and measures will be taken to ensure the policy’s requirements are consistently met.
Policy Review Cycle
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its ongoing effectiveness and relevance. Updates will be made as needed to maintain compliance with local regulations and technological advancements.