In Israel, every organization employing more than 25 people and providing services to the public is legally required under the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law to make its physical environment and services accessible. Beyond the legal obligation, accessibility is an expression of the values of equality, inclusion, and corporate social responsibility. (Service Accessibility - For Accessibility)
Physical Accessibility: Creating an Inclusive Environment for Everyone
Physical accessibility refers to adapting buildings and infrastructure so that every person, regardless of disability, can move through and use the organization's facilities safely and comfortably. The regulations require adaptations such as:
- Accessible entrances with ramps or elevators.
- Wide corridors that allow wheelchair movement.
- Accessible and adapted restrooms.
- Clear and legible signage, including Braille where required.
- Designated accessible parking spaces located close to the entrance (Accessible Service - Introduction, Regulations, Process and Timelines - Gov.il,
Access Israel Website - Information and Support for People with Disabilities | Access Israel)
The relevant regulations include the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (Accessibility Adaptations for a Public Place that is an Existing Building) and the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (Accessibility Adaptations for a Public Place that is Not a Building). (A Comprehensive Review of Accessibility Laws in Israel | Y. Eliav Engineering, Safety and Accessibility)
Service Accessibility: Equal and Dignified Service for All
Service accessibility focuses on making the way services are delivered accessible to people with disabilities, so they can receive services on an equal and dignified basis. The regulations require adaptations such as: (What is Accessibility? The Commission for Equal Rights of Persons with Disabilities - Gov.il)
- Making information available through alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio recordings).
- Training employees to provide accessible and respectful service.
- Adapting procedures to deliver services without discrimination.
- Making technological systems accessible, such as websites and telephone systems.
The primary regulations in this area are the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (Accessibility Adaptations for Service), 2013. (Accessibility Regulations for Service | Information for Accessibility Practitioners | Promoting Accessibility in Israel for People with Disabilities)
Appointing an Accessibility Coordinator
Every organization employing more than 25 people is required to appoint an accessibility coordinator, whose role is to ensure the organization complies with legal requirements and regulations, and to serve as the primary point of contact for accessibility-related inquiries.
The Business Benefits of Becoming Accessible
- Expanding your customer base.
- Enhancing your organization's reputation and brand image.
- Achieving legal compliance and avoiding fines.
- Improving the overall service experience for all customers.
Accessibility is not just a legal obligation — it is also an opportunity to build an equal and inclusive environment. An organization that implements both physical and service accessibility demonstrates a genuine commitment to the values of equality and respect for every individual.
For more information and assistance implementing accessibility in your organization, you can contact Access Israel, which offers consulting, training, and practical tools for organizations. (The Accessibility Information Center - Know Your Rights - Access Israel)