In Israel, the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Regulations require every business that provides services to the public to undergo an accessibility audit once every five years. This audit is designed to ensure that every person, regardless of their disability, can receive equal, accessible, and dignified service. The audit covers all aspects of the business: digital, service-related, and physical.
What Is an Accessibility Audit and Why Does It Matter?
The accessibility audit is carried out using Form 9, published by the Commission for Equal Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The form is divided into four main sections:
- Physical accessibility adaptations – Auditing the physical environment, including entrances, pathways, restrooms, signage, and accessible parking.
- Information accessibility – Making information accessible to the public, including forms, publications, websites, and phone systems.
- Adapting policies, procedures, and practices – Reviewing service procedures, including the option to receive service with a companion, a service animal, and without waiting in line.
- Staff training and accessibility coordinator – Ensuring employees are aware of their obligations and have been trained accordingly, as well as appointing an accessibility coordinator within the organization.
After completing the form, any identified deficiencies must be corrected within six months. The form and accompanying certificates must be kept on file and made available to the public upon request.
The Special Requirement for Businesses With Two or More Branches
A business operating two or more branches is considered a chain, and must meet additional requirements:
- Signature of a certified service accessibility expert: The audit must be approved by a certified service accessibility expert, who is legally authorized to do so. This expert may be a person within the chain who conducted the audit, but the final signature must belong to the certified professional.
- Storing and presenting the forms: The forms and certificates must be kept on file and made available to the public upon request.
It is important to note that if your website was made accessible and you received a compliance certificate that was not signed by a certified service accessibility expert — that certificate is not valid.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to meet legal requirements — and in particular, failure to have the audit form signed by a certified service accessibility expert — can expose a business to lawsuits, fines, and reputational damage. Ensuring the audit is properly conducted and signed by an authorized professional is not only a legal obligation, but also a demonstration of the business's commitment to equal and respectful service for all its customers.
Summary
Accessibility is not just a legal requirement — it's an opportunity to create better service for everyone. Businesses operating two or more branches must ensure their accessibility audit is approved by a certified service accessibility expert, thereby guaranteeing legal compliance and accessible service for all.
For more information and to download Form 9, visit gov.il.