Poland

The Act from April 26, 2024, Poland’s digital accessibility regulation is governed by the Management Board of State Fund for the Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons (PFRON).

What it includes

• Devices such as general-purpose consumer computer systems, payment devices, and self-service terminals (e.g., ATMs, ticket machines) must support accessible use
• Devices with interactive computing abilities, including those for telecommunications and media services, must meet accessibility standards
• Devices for electronic book reading should ensure accessibility for people with disabilities
• Telecommunications services, access to audiovisual media, passenger transport services, retail banking, electronic book distribution, and e-commerce must adhere to accessibility requirements

Exceptions

The exceptions to the regulations include:

• Machine-to-machine communication services: these are exempt from the accessibility requirements
• Terminals integrated into transport vehicles or watercraft: devices that are part of these vehicles are outside the Act’s scope
• Services by micro-entrepreneurs: smaller economic entities are not required to comply
• Certain map-related websites and mobile applications: these are excluded unless specifically mandated
• Public transport services: exemptions apply at various administrative levels, as detailed in the Public Transport Act of 2010 and another Act from 2019

Fines and penalties

Poland’s digital accessibility regulation enforces compliance with financial penalties based on economic metrics. Penalties can reach up to ten times the average monthly salary in the national economy, as published by the President of the Central Statistical Office in the Monitor Polski. Calculations are based on the provisions governing retirement and disability pensions from the Social Insurance Fund. However, penalties cannot exceed 10% of the turnover achieved in the financial year prior to the year of the penalty’s imposition.

In certain cases, PFRON can prohibit the product or service from being made available on the market. This system ensures penalties are proportional to the organization’s size and financial capacity.

Reporting

Poland follows the EU-wide mandate for accessibility statements on public sector websites and digital services. These statements are essential for maintaining transparency and accountability.

This statement must be publicly available on their websites and provide clear information on the accessibility status of their digital services, such as whether they meet the required standards or outline existing accessibility issues. The statement should also detail the measures taken to improve accessibility, including any ongoing efforts or plans for remediation. Additionally, the accessibility statement must specify how users can report accessibility problems and request assistance, ensuring that organizations remain accountable and transparent in their commitment to accessible digital experiences.

For the latest and most accurate information on digital accessibility requirements, please refer to the official documentation provided by the Polish government.