Core accessibility concepts
12 concepts every site owner should know
An international standard that defines guidelines for making web content accessible. WCAG is organized into three conformance levels: A, AA and AAA. Most regulations worldwide (including ADA practice and EN 301 549) require Level AA conformance.
The Level AA conformance level of WCAG 2.1, widely treated as the legal baseline for public-facing websites under the ADA, Section 508, EN 301 549 and most national accessibility laws. Israel's IS 5568 standard is also based on WCAG 2.0 AA.
A set of HTML attributes that add semantic information to complex UI components so that screen readers and other assistive technologies can interpret and communicate them to the user.
Software that converts on-screen content into speech or Braille output. Examples include NVDA (free, Windows), JAWS (Windows), VoiceOver (Apple) and TalkBack (Android). Screen readers are the primary tool blind users rely on to browse the web.
Text that describes an image, shown when the image fails to load and read aloud by screen readers. Required on every image that conveys information. Purely decorative images should use an empty alt="".
The contrast ratio between text color and its background. WCAG Level AA requires at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. Low contrast makes content hard to read for users with low vision.
The ability to browse and operate every function on a site using only a keyboard (Tab, Enter, arrow keys, Escape). Essential for users who cannot use a mouse, including many motor-impaired and blind users.
A document published on a website that describes its accessibility level, the adjustments made, and contact details for reporting accessibility issues. Required by law in many jurisdictions, including Israel and the EU.
A software tool installed on a site that lets users adjust their browsing experience — enlarging text, changing contrast, stopping animations and more. Widgets complement core accessibility work but do not replace it.
Using HTML elements according to the meaning of the content (e.g., header, nav, main, article, button) rather than only for visual styling. Semantic HTML lets assistive technologies understand the structure of the page.
A visual cue (usually an outline) showing which element currently has keyboard focus. Required by WCAG SC 2.4.7 — never remove the focus outline in CSS without providing a clear replacement.
A U.S. civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. Courts have repeatedly held that the ADA applies to public-facing websites, with WCAG 2.1 AA serving as the de-facto compliance benchmark. ADA non-compliance can lead to lawsuits and settlements.
Glossary of terms
A brief explanation of every term you may have wondered about
הצהרת נגישות
Accessibility Adjustments Implemented
A list of actions taken on the website to make it accessible – for example: keyboard navigation, color contrast, text with descriptions.
Accessibility Coordinator
A person responsible for accessibility matters in an organization, whose role is to ensure the organization complies with legal requirements, handles accessibility requests, and promotes accessibility accommodations.
Accessibility Exemption
A legal authorization to avoid full or partial accessibility implementation when conditions exist such as disproportionate burden or fundamental technical limitations.
Accessibility Service Consultant
A qualified professional with formal certification who advises organizations and guides them in implementing accessibility accommodations in their services.
Accessibility Statement
An official document published on a website that specifies the accessibility level of the website, the accessibility accommodations that have been implemented, and how to obtain accessible services
Accessibility Upon Request
An organization's commitment to provide individualized accessibility accommodations to people with disabilities upon reasonable request.
Accessible Alternative
An equivalent alternative service provided to a person with a disability when the primary service is not accessible (such as phone support instead of an online form).
Digital Assets
Websites, applications, and public information systems that are required to comply with Israeli accessibility standard 5568.
Full Accessibility
A state in which the entire website meets the standard requirements and enables independent and equal use for people with all types of disabilities.
Human Responsibility for Accessibility
Recognition that accessibility is not only technology – but also expressed through attitude, training, responsiveness to requests, and customized service for people.
Last Updated Date
The most recent date on which the website's accessibility statement was updated – required by regulations to reflect current and accessible information to the public.
Partial Accessibility
A situation where only some of the services or content are actually accessible, and there are areas on the website that do not meet the standard requirements.
Physical Accessibility
Physical adaptations in service infrastructure (such as ramps, signage, elevators, accessible restrooms) designed to ensure equal access for all individuals.
Plain Language Text
It is recommended that the statement be clear and not overly legal — so that people with cognitive disabilities or comprehension difficulties can understand it.
Responsibility for Publishing the Accessibility Statement
The legal obligation placed on the service provider to ensure that the accessibility statement is published on the website in a clear, accessible, and up-to-date manner.
Service Accessibility Regulations – Sections 35(e) and 91(e)
Key sections in the regulations that require certain businesses to publish an accessibility statement (Section 35(e)) and appoint an accessibility coordinator (Section 91(e)).
Technical Barriers
Technical issues that hinder or prevent website use by people with disabilities, for example content that cannot be detected by a screen reader.
Website Accessibility
The degree to which a website is adapted for use by people with disabilities through technological accommodations such as screen reader support, color contrast, text alternatives for images, and similar features
חקיקה ישראלית
Access to Accessible Information
The right of a person with a disability to receive information in an accessible format suitable for them, such as Braille, audio recording, or linguistic simplification.
Accessibility
The removal of physical, technological, and communication barriers to enable people with disabilities to use services, buildings, transportation, and information on an equal basis.
Accessibility Accommodations
The comprehensive set of accessible accommodations and services offered by a service provider, including physical, service-based, and technological adaptations.
Accessibility Audit
A systematic process for testing compliance with accessibility requirements, including automated tests and manual testing by an accessibility expert.
Accessibility Audit
A systematic examination process for compliance with accessibility standards, which includes automated tests, manual testing, and sometimes user testing.
Accessibility Certificate Validity Period
The duration for which an accessibility certificate issued by an authorized accessibility authority remains valid, typically not more than five years.
Accessibility Certification
An official certification issued by an authorized accessibility authority, attesting to compliance with the accessibility requirements of the law and regulations.
Accessibility Certification
An official document certifying compliance with accessibility requirements, issued by an authorized accessibility authority after a thorough inspection.
Accessibility Documentation
Preservation of documents and certificates that attest to the implementation of accessibility accommodations, including periodic testing, as part of the service provider's obligation.
Accessibility During Major Upgrades
There is an obligation to make a website or information system accessible when performing a major upgrade, even if the website was previously exempt.
Accessibility Exemption Request Form
An official form for submitting a request for full or partial exemption from accessibility requirements, including justifications, documentation, and proposed accessible alternatives.
Accessibility Order
An administrative directive issued by the Equal Rights Commission to a service provider to remedy accessibility deficiencies that have been identified, within a defined timeline.
Accessibility Regulations
A series of regulations enacted under law that specify the requirements and standards for making buildings, services, websites, public transportation, and more accessible
Accessibility Statement Publication Requirement
The legal obligation to publish an accessibility statement on a website, which details the level of accessibility and the accessibility accommodations in place.
Accessible Communication Channels
A variety of communication methods (telephone, email, chat, SMS) that enable people with different disabilities to contact a service provider.
Accessible Information on Request
The obligation of a service provider to supply information in an accessible format (such as a screen reader-compatible file, Braille, or audio recording) upon request by a person with a disability.
Accessible Payment Processing Requirements
Special requirements for making payment systems and online transactions accessible, enabling people with disabilities to make purchases independently.
Advance Notice
An obligation to publish information in advance about the accessibility of an event, service, or place, so that a person with a disability can prepare accordingly.
Advance Notice (Section 35)
The obligation of a service provider to publish in advance the accessibility arrangements existing at the location and the available accommodations according to section 35 of the law.
Alternative Accessibility
An option to provide an accessible service in a different way than the usual method when standard accessibility is not feasible for justified legal reasons.
Alternative Accessibility
Alternative means to standard accessibility that enable people with disabilities to receive a service or information in a manner tailored to their needs.
Application Exemptions
Exemptions and certain accommodations for applications under special conditions, such as applications designed for a defined population.
Applications must be accessible
Mobile applications and computer software that provide services to the public must be accessible, similar to websites.
Auto-generated Document
A document that is automatically created by a system, which must also be made accessible if it is intended for website users.
Automatic Accessibility Overlays
Technological tools installed on a website that enable basic accessibility adjustments, but do not provide a complete solution for meeting accessibility standards.
Business License
An operating license for a business, where compliance with accessibility requirements is a condition for its issuance and renewal for businesses requiring licensure.
Business Owner Responsibility
The legal responsibility of a business owner or service provider to comply with accessibility requirements, which cannot be fully delegated to another party.
Class Action Lawsuit
A lawsuit filed on behalf of a group of people with disabilities who were harmed by the inaccessibility of a service or public place.
Class Action Lawsuit
A lawsuit filed on behalf of a group of people with disabilities due to violations of accessibility requirements, which can amount to millions of shekels.
Contact Methods
Accessible contact details that must be published in the accessibility statement, enabling people with disabilities to submit accessibility requests and complaints.
Content in Personal Areas
Content in website areas that require authentication or registration, which must also be fully accessible as part of the online service.
Corporate Fine — 150,600 ₪
The enhanced fine imposed on corporations for violating accessibility requirements, double the standard fine, updated periodically.
Critical Information
Essential and necessary information for using a service, which must be accessible through all possible means for all types of disabilities.
Critical Third-Party System
An external system whose implementation on the website is essential for its operation, and which must also meet accessibility requirements or provide an accessible alternative.
Daily Fine — 3,700 ₪
An additional fine that may be imposed for each day on which a violation of accessibility requirements continues after a compliance order has been issued.
Disability Discrimination
Prohibition of discrimination against a person based on their disability in various areas, such as employment acceptance, employment conditions, professional advancement, dismissal, provision of public services, and more
Disclosure of Accommodations in Training, Guidance, and Examination Services
Organizations are required to publish information about accessible accommodations available in training services, courses, workshops, and examinations they offer.
Disclosure of Exemptions
It is required to clearly state in the accessibility statement which parts of the website or service have received exemptions, and what accessible alternatives are offered.
Document Accessibility Standard
A standard that defines how to make digital documents such as PDFs, Word files, or presentations accessible, based on the document type and its intended use.
Document Uploaded After October 26, 2015
A document uploaded to a website after the effective date specified in the regulations, which is required to have full accessibility without exemption based on the document's age.
Documentation of Accessible Information Provision
Documentation of instances where accessible format information was provided upon request by a person with a disability, as required for compliance with legal requirements.
Duty of Office Holders
Personal responsibility of managers and organizational officials to ensure compliance with legal requirements and regulations regarding accessibility.
Economic Exemption
An exemption from full accessibility implementation due to unreasonable cost or excessive burden, calculated according to criteria established in law and regulations.
Economic Exemption
An exemption from full or partial accessibility implementation due to unreasonable financial burden, according to criteria established in regulations.
Economic Hardship Exemption
Exemption from full accessibility compliance due to excessive economic burden that exceeds what is reasonable, according to criteria defined in regulations.
Emergency Services
Essential services during emergencies such as emergency call centers, evacuation and shelters, which require special accessibility accommodations.
Emergency Services
A service provided in emergency and distress situations, which must include special accessibility accommodations for people with various disabilities.
Equal Rights Commission Guidelines
Detailed guidelines published by the Equal Rights Commission for Persons with Disabilities regarding the implementation of laws and regulations in various sectors.
Equal Rights Commissioner
The government body responsible for enforcing the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law, including the field of accessibility.
Equal Rights Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities
A government body established by law, responsible for enforcing legislation, raising awareness, providing consultation and assistance to persons with disabilities, and overseeing the implementation of regulations
Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law
A law enacted in 1998 aimed at protecting the dignity and freedom of persons with disabilities, and anchoring their right to equal and active participation in society in all areas of life.
Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law
A law enacted in 1998 aimed at protecting the dignity and freedom of persons with disabilities, and establishing their right to equal and active participation in society across all areas of life
Essential Document
A document required to access a service or obtain information that must be available in accessible formats such as accessible PDF, Braille, or audio.
Essential Information
Information that is vital for receiving a service or navigating a public place, which must be made accessible through a variety of means for people with different disabilities.
Essential Information
Information necessary to receive a service or use a public place, which must be provided in an accessible format for people with various disabilities.
Exempted Business Relief
Certain accessibility requirement exemptions for very small businesses defined as "exempted businesses" for VAT purposes.
Exemption Validity Period
The duration for which a specific exemption remains valid, after which circumstances must be reassessed and either an extension request must be submitted or full accessibility implementation must be carried out.
Fair Representation
An obligation for employers in the public sector, and in some cases also in the private sector, to ensure fair representation of people with disabilities in their workforce
Filing a Complaint
The process of filing a legal complaint for violations of accessibility requirements, which can be done by individuals or organizations.
Fine — 75,300 ₪
The base fine that may be imposed for violating the provisions of the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law, updated periodically.
First Amendment to the Law
An amendment to the Equal Rights Law that specifies the list of public places required to be accessible.
Five-Year Accessibility Review
A mandatory periodic review of accessibility compliance at least once every five years to ensure sustained accessibility over time.
Free Service
A service provided at no cost, which must still comply with accessibility requirements if it is defined as a public service.
Free Service
A service provided at no cost that is still subject to accessibility requirements, especially if offered by a public or commercial entity.
Government Office
A government body required to meet the highest level of accessibility, including full accessibility of all information and online services it provides.
Grounds for Denial of Business License
Failure to meet accessibility requirements can be grounds for refusing to issue or renew a business license, or for suspending an existing license.
Information Accessibility
Adapting information for people with disabilities, including alternative descriptions for images, captions, linguistic simplification, and text enlargement options.
Information Accessibility
Adapting information to make it accessible to people with various disabilities, recognizing the equal right to information.
Israeli Standard 5568
The official Israeli standard for web accessibility that mandates compliance for all public service providers and public places in Israel.
Israeli Standard SI 5568
The Israeli standard for web accessibility, based on WCAG 2.0 Level AA guidelines, with adaptations for Israel.
Last Update Date
The most recent date on which the accessibility statement was updated or an accessibility audit was conducted for the website, which is required to be stated in the accessibility statement.
Legacy Website Exemption
A partial exemption from web accessibility requirements for older websites created before a certain date and not undergoing significant upgrades.
Legacy Website Exemption
Full or partial exemption from web accessibility requirements for websites created before the regulations came into effect and that are not undergoing significant upgrades.
Legal Liability
The legal responsibility of public service owners and managers to comply with accessibility requirements, the failure of which may result in sanctions and fines.
Legal Liability
The legal obligation of public service owners and managers to meet accessibility requirements, non-compliance with which may expose them to lawsuits.
Legal Sanctions
Penalties and fines that may be imposed on those who violate accessibility requirements, including fines, injunctions, and damages in lawsuits.
Local Authority
A municipal authority (city council, local council, or regional council) that is required to make all of its services accessible, including its website and online services.
Ministry of Justice
The government ministry under whose responsibility operates the Equal Rights Commission, and which is responsible for regulations and legislation in the field of accessibility.
Minutes or Protocol
Official documentation of a discussion, meeting, or event, which must be accessible to people with various disabilities when it concerns a public body.
Ombudsman Certification
Certification from the Equality Rights Ombudsman regarding compliance with accessibility requirements or exemption, which provides certain protection against claims.
Penalty for Violation of an Accessibility Order
A monetary fine imposed on a service provider that fails to comply with the provisions of an accessibility order, which may reach tens of thousands of shekels.
Periodic Accessibility Audits
Organizations are required to conduct regular compliance testing for accessibility requirements at set intervals (typically once every five years) and document the findings.
Person with a Disability
According to Section 5 of the Law, a person with a physical, mental, or intellectual disability, including cognitive disability, permanent or temporary, who due to the disability has substantially limited functioning in one or more major life domains.
Person with a Disability
A person with a physical, mental, or intellectual impairment, permanent or temporary, that substantially limits their functioning in one or more areas of life.
Person with Severe Disability
A designation referring to an individual with a disability of greater severity, sometimes conferring additional rights and benefits, particularly in the areas of employment and appropriate representation
Personal Area (as defined in legislation)
An area on a website that requires authentication or registration, where the user receives personalized service, and which has enhanced accessibility requirements.
Personalized Accommodations
Modifications and adaptations implemented according to the specific needs of a person with a disability, beyond the general accommodations mandated by law.
Private Lawsuit
A personal lawsuit filed by a person with a disability due to discrimination or failure to implement necessary accessibility accommodations required for them to use a service.
Public Place
A place open to the public or providing services to the public, such as restaurants, shops, public offices, and institutions, which is required to be physically accessible.
Public Place
A place that serves the public or a portion of it, such as businesses, public institutions, educational institutions, places of worship, public parks, and the like.
Public Service
A service provided to the public, whether by a public or private entity, and includes online and telephone services that are required to be accessible.
Public Service
A service provided to the public or part of it by a public or private entity, including online, telephone, and in-person services.
Publicizing Accessibility Accommodations at Events
Service providers are required to publicize in advance information about available accessibility accommodations at public events they organize.
Queue Exemption
The right of people with certain disabilities to receive service without waiting in line in public places, according to established criteria
Reasonable Accommodations
An obligation to make changes and adaptations in the workplace, in educational institutions, and in public places, to enable a person with a disability equal access and full participation.
Reasonable Time
A reasonable duration for implementing accessibility accommodations or responding to an individual accommodation request, as defined in the regulations.
Regulation 27
A regulation specifying the obligation to provide auxiliary aids and auxiliary services in public services, including on websites and online services.
Regulatory Exemptions
Exceptional cases defined in regulations in which partial or full exemptions from accessibility requirements may be granted under certain conditions.
Second Amendment to the Law
An amendment to the Equal Rights Law that specifies the list of public services required to be accessible.
Section 1: Definitions
A section that defines the central terms in the law, including the definition of "person with a disability", "accessibility accommodations", and "public bodies".
Section 29: Accessibility Adjustments for Information
A provision requiring accessibility adjustments for information provided to the public, including websites and digital services.
Section 34: Publication of Accessibility Accommodations Implemented
A section requiring the publication of information about accessibility accommodations implemented in a service or public place, and serving as the basis for the accessibility statement.
Section 35: Web Accessibility
A key statutory provision requiring the accessibility of websites and digital services in compliance with Israeli Standard 5568, which is based on the international WCAG standard.
Section 36: Accessibility Accommodations for Emergency Telephone Services
A regulatory requirement mandating accessibility accommodations in telephone service centers, particularly emergency services, for people with hearing and speech disabilities.
Section 87: Employee Notification
A provision that requires organizations to instruct and update employees about accessibility accommodations and obligations toward persons with disabilities.
Section 91: Duty to Appoint an Accessibility Coordinator
A section requiring organizations and entities that provide services and employ more than 25 employees to appoint an accessibility coordinator who will be responsible for accessibility matters in the organization.
Section 93: Conducting an Accessibility Audit
A provision requiring periodic accessibility testing to ensure that the service or public place continues to meet accessibility requirements over time.
Service Accessibility Authority
A qualified professional who has undergone specialized training and is authorized by the authorities to provide consultation and certifications in the field of service accessibility.
Service Accessibility Authority Certification
A certification issued by an authorized accessibility authority, confirming that the service meets the relevant accessibility requirements according to law and regulations.
Service Accessibility Regulations
A system of regulations under the Equal Rights Law that defines accessibility obligations in public services, including digital services.
Service Marketing
Advertising, promotion and information about services, which must also be accessible to the general population as part of service accessibility.
Service Marketing
Any advertising, promotion or presentation of information about a service, which must also be accessible in accordance with regulations.
Service Provider
An entity or individual that provides a public service and is required to make the service accessible in accordance with the law and accessibility regulations.
Service Provider
The person or entity responsible for operating the public service and required to implement accessibility accommodations in accordance with the law and regulations.
Service Provision
Any activity intended to provide a service to the public, including providing information, performing actions and providing support, both online.
Service Provision
Any action by a service provider provided to the public, including information, transaction processing, use of facilities and the like, subject to accessibility requirements.
Small Business Exemption
Certain relief from accessibility requirements for small businesses whose annual turnover is below the threshold established by law.
Small Business Exemption
Accommodations and adjusted requirements for small businesses, including extended timelines, reduced requirements, and cost relief for accessibility implementations.
Special Exemption
An exemption granted in exceptional cases by the Equal Rights Commission for Persons with Disabilities following a thorough examination of the request.
Special Exemption
An exceptional exemption granted by the Equal Rights Commission in special cases not covered by standard exemptions, following a formal request procedure.
Special Exemption
An exemption granted in exceptional cases by the Equal Rights Commission, when no other option is available and subject to presenting accessible alternatives.
Staff Members
Employees in a public place or public service who are required to receive training on how to provide accessible services to people with disabilities.
Staff Team
All employees in a facility or public service who need to receive training and instruction on providing accessible services to people with disabilities.
Statutory Damages
Monetary compensation that may be awarded to the plaintiff in accessibility lawsuits without the need to prove actual damages, up to 50,000 ₪ per violation.
Statutory Exemption
An exemption established by law for specific cases, such as websites intended for activities abroad or that comply with equivalent international standards.
Statutory Exemption Under the Equal Rights Law
An exemption established by law itself for specific cases, such as historical sites that cannot be modified, or services with unique characteristics.
Technical Exemption
An exemption from full or partial accessibility of content or services due to substantial technological limitations that prevent reasonable accessibility.
Technical Exemption
An exemption from full or partial accessibility due to objective technological limitations that do not permit reasonable accommodation.
Technical Information
Professional or technical information about a product or service, which is often complex and must be made accessible in ways adapted to different types of disabilities.
Technological Exemption
An exemption from full accessibility due to objective technological limitations that do not allow reasonable accommodation to accessibility standards.
Technological Incompatibility Exception
A provision in regulations that permits exemption from full accessibility due to objective, documented technological limitations.
Temporary Exemption
An extension of time for implementing certain accessibility accommodations in justified cases, subject to approval by the commission and limited to a specific period only.
Temporary Exemption
A temporary exemption or extension from implementing certain accessibility accommodations, granted by the Equal Rights Commission for a limited period.
Third-Party Accessibility
The responsibility to ensure that content or services provided by external suppliers (third parties) on a website also meet accessibility requirements.
Transcription
Converting audio or recorded content into written text, enabling people with hearing or cognitive disabilities to access the content.
User Testing with People with Disabilities
Accessibility testing conducted with the participation of people with various disabilities, providing real-world insights into user experience.
Video with Captions
A video accompanied by accurate captions, required for all video content on public websites to benefit people with hearing impairments.
WCAG 2.0
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines - the international guidelines for web content accessibility from version 2.0 onwards, which form the basis for the Israeli standard.
WCAG 2.0
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, version 2.0, developed by the W3C organization and forming the basis for the Israeli standard.
WCAG Conformance Levels A / AA / AAA
The three conformance levels defined by the WCAG standard, with Israel requiring Level AA compliance for most public services.
WCAG Conformance Levels A / AA / AAA
Three levels of compliance with WCAG guidelines, where level A is the basic level, level AA is the level required in Israel, and level AAA is the most stringent.
WCAG Level AA
The required accessibility level for public websites in Israel according to the standard, which includes all Level A requirements plus additional advanced requirements.
Web Accessibility
Websites and applications must be made accessible to enable people with disabilities to access online information and services
Website Hosted Abroad
A website whose servers are located outside of Israel, a fact that in itself does not constitute grounds for exemption from Israeli accessibility requirements.
Website Infrastructure
The technological system on which a website is built, whose accessibility is an integral part of the ability to make the entire website accessible.
Website Intended for Foreign Audiences
A website of an Israeli entity intended for an audience whose primary location is outside Israel, which may be exempt from some requirements of the Israeli accessibility standard.
כללי
Accessibility Arrangements
A comprehensive set of accommodations and accessible services offered by a service provider, including physical, service-based, and technological accommodations.
Accessibility Audit
A systematic process for testing compliance with accessibility requirements, including both automated tests and manual testing by an accessibility expert.
Accessibility Audit
A systematic examination process for compliance with accessibility standards, including automated tests, manual tests, and sometimes user testing.
Accessibility Directive
An administrative order issued by the Equality Commission to a service provider to remedy accessibility deficiencies that were found, within a defined timeline.
Accessibility Documentation
Maintaining records and evidence demonstrating the implementation of accessibility accommodations, including periodic audits, as part of the service provider's obligation.
Accessible Communication Methods
A variety of communication channels (phone, email, chat, SMS) that enable people with different disabilities to contact a service provider.
Advance Notice (Under Section 35)
The obligation of a service provider to publicly announce in advance the accessibility arrangements existing at the location and the available accommodations according to section 35 of the law.
Alternative Accessibility
An option to provide an accessible service in a different way than usual when standard accessibility is not possible for legally justified reasons.
Automatic Accessibility Overlays
Technological tools installed on websites that enable basic accessibility adjustments, but do not provide a complete solution for meeting accessibility standards.
Class Action Lawsuit
A lawsuit filed on behalf of a group of people with disabilities who have been harmed by the inaccessibility of a service or public place.
Disproportionality Exemption
Exemption from full accessibility implementation due to excessive economic burden that exceeds what is reasonable, according to criteria defined in regulations.
Economic Exemption
An exemption from full accessibility implementation due to unreasonable cost or disproportionate burden, calculated according to criteria established in law and regulations.
Emergency Service
A service provided during emergency and crisis situations, which must include special accessibility accommodations for people with various disabilities.
Emergency Services
Essential services during emergencies such as emergency call centers, evacuation, and shelters, which require special accessibility accommodations.
Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law
A law enacted in 1998 aimed at protecting the dignity and freedom of persons with disabilities, and anchoring their right to equal and active participation in society across all areas of life.
Equality Commission Guidelines
Detailed guidelines published by the Equality Commission for Persons with Disabilities regarding the implementation of laws and regulations across various domains.
Essential Information
Information that is critical for receiving a service or navigating a public space, which must be made accessible through various means for people with different disabilities.
Essential Information
Information that is necessary to access a service or use a public space, which must be provided in an accessible manner for a range of disabilities.
Exempted Business Relief
Certain accessibility requirement exemptions or reduced obligations for very small businesses defined as "exempt businesses" for VAT purposes.
Individual Complaint
A personal lawsuit filed by a person with a disability alleging discrimination or the failure to provide necessary accessibility accommodations required for using a service.
Individualized Accommodation
Changes and adjustments made according to the specific needs of a person with a disability, beyond the general accommodations established by law.
Information Accessibility
Adapting information for people with disabilities, including alternative descriptions for images, captions, linguistic simplification, and text enlargement options.
Information Accessibility
Adapting information so it is accessible to people with various disabilities, recognizing the equal right to information.
Information available upon request
The obligation of a service provider to supply information in an accessible format (such as a file readable by screen readers, Braille, or an audio recording) upon request by a person with a disability.
Israeli Standard SI 5568
The Israeli standard for web accessibility, based on WCAG 2.0 Level AA guidelines, with adaptations for Israel.
Israeli Standard SI 5568
The official Israeli standard for web accessibility that requires all public service providers and public places in Israel to comply.
Legacy Website Exemption
A partial exemption from web accessibility requirements for older websites created before a certain date and not undergoing significant upgrades.
Legal Exemption from Equality Requirements
An exemption established by law for specific cases, such as websites intended for activity abroad or that comply with equivalent international standards.
Legal Liability
The legal responsibility of public service providers and administrators to comply with accessibility requirements, with non-compliance potentially resulting in sanctions and fines.
Penalty for Violation of Accessibility Order
A financial penalty imposed on a service provider that fails to comply with accessibility order requirements, which can reach tens of thousands of shekels.
Periodic Accessibility Testing
Organizations are required to perform compliance testing for accessibility requirements at regular intervals (typically every five years) and document the findings.
Person with a Disability
According to section 5 of the law, a person with a physical, mental, or intellectual disability, including cognitive disability, whether permanent or temporary, whose functioning is substantially limited in one or more major life activities as a result of the disability.
Person with a Disability
A person with a permanent or temporary physical, mental, or intellectual impairment that substantially limits their functioning in one or more life domains.
Personal Area (as defined in legislation)
An area on a website that requires identification or registration, where a user receives personalized service and has enhanced accessibility requirements.
Public Place
A place that is open to the public or provides services to the public, such as restaurants, shops, public offices, and institutions, which are required to have physical accessibility.
Public Place
A place that serves the public or a portion of it, such as businesses, public institutions, educational institutions, places of worship, public parks, and similar locations.
Public Service
A service provided to the public, whether by a public or private entity, and includes online and telephone services that are required to be accessible.
Public Service
A service provided to the public or a portion thereof by a public or private entity, including online, telephone, and in-person services.
Publicizing Accessibility Accommodations at Events
Service providers must publish in advance information about available accessibility accommodations at public events they organize.
Publishing Accommodations in Training, Instruction, and Testing Services
Organizations must publish information about available accessibility accommodations in training services, courses, workshops, and exams they offer.
Section 1: Definitions
A section that defines key terms in the law, including definitions of "person with a disability", "accessibility accommodations", and "public entities".
Section 29: Accessibility Adjustments for Information
A provision requiring accessibility adjustments for information provided to the public, including websites and digital services.
Section 34: Publication of Accessibility Adjustments Implemented
A provision requiring the publication of information about accessibility adjustments implemented in services and public places, serving as the basis for the accessibility statement.
Section 35: Web Accessibility
A key provision requiring the accessibility of websites and digital services in accordance with Israeli Standard 5568, which is based on the international WCAG standard.
Section 36: Accessibility Accommodations in Emergency Telephone Services
A provision requiring accessibility accommodations in telephone service centers, particularly emergency call centers, for individuals with hearing and speech disabilities.
Section 87: Employee Notification
A provision requiring organizations to instruct and inform employees about accessibility accommodations and obligations toward people with disabilities.
Section 91: Requirement to Appoint an Accessibility Coordinator
A provision requiring organizations and entities that provide services and employ more than 25 employees to appoint an accessibility coordinator who will be responsible for accessibility matters within the organization.
Section 93: Accessibility Audit
A requirement mandating periodic accessibility testing to ensure that services or public places continue to meet accessibility requirements over time.
Service Accessibility Regulations
A system of regulations under the Equal Rights Law that defines accessibility obligations in public services, including digital services.
Service Delivery
Any activity intended to provide services to the public, including providing information, performing actions, and offering support, including online.
Service Marketing
Advertising, promotion, and information about services, which must also be accessible to the general population as part of service accessibility.
Service Marketing
Any advertising, promotion, or presentation of information about a service, which must also be accessible in accordance with regulations.
Service Provider
An entity or individual that provides a public service and is required to make the service accessible in accordance with accessibility laws and regulations.
Service Provider
The person or entity responsible for operating the public service and required to implement accessibility accommodations according to the law and regulations.
Service Provision
Any action of a service provider provided to the public, including information, conducting transactions, use of facilities and the like, subject to accessibility requirements.
Special Exemption
An exemption granted in exceptional cases by the Equal Rights Commission for Persons with Disabilities following a thorough examination of the request.
Special Exemption
An exceptional exemption granted by the Equality Commission in special cases not covered by standard exemptions, following a formal request procedure.
Staff Team
Employees in a public place or public service who are required to receive training on how to provide accessible service to people with disabilities.
Staff Team
All employees in a workplace or public service who need to receive training and instruction to provide accessible services to people with disabilities.
Statutory Exemption
An exemption established by law itself for specific cases, such as historical sites that cannot be modified, or services with unique characteristics.
Technical Exemption
An exemption from full or partial accessibility of content or services due to substantial technical limitations that do not permit reasonable accessibility.
Technological Exemption
An exemption from full accessibility due to objective technological limitations that do not permit reasonable conformance to accessibility standards.
Temporary Exemption
An extension of time to implement certain accessibility accommodations in justified cases, subject to commissioner approval and for a limited period only.
Third-Party Accessibility
Responsibility to ensure that content or services provided by external vendors (third parties) on a website also meet accessibility requirements.
WCAG 2.0
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines - the international guidelines for web content accessibility from version 2.0 onward, which form the basis for the Israeli standard.
WCAG 2.0
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, version 2.0, developed by the W3C organization and forming the basis for the Israeli standard.
WCAG Conformance Levels A / AA / AAA
Three accessibility conformance levels defined by the WCAG standard. In Israel, most public services are required to comply with level AA.
WCAG Conformance Levels A / AA / AAA
Three levels of compliance with WCAG guidelines, where level A is the basic level, level AA is required in Israel, and level AAA is the most stringent.
עיצוב
Accessible Design
Accessible design is a process aimed at ensuring that all users, including people with disabilities, can interact with and use digital content and interfaces equally. This includes visual, auditory, motor, and cognitive accessibility while meeting standards such as WCAG.
Balance
Visual balance ensures that interface elements do not overwhelm or confuse the user. In accessibility, maintaining visual balance helps people with attention or visual processing difficulties distinguish between different areas and navigate more effectively.
Color Contrast
Sufficient contrast between text and background is essential for readability, especially for people with visual impairments or color blindness. Proper use of contrast meets standard requirements (typically 4.5:1) and ensures that information remains clear even on lower-quality displays.
Emphasis
Using emphasis techniques (such as color, size, or style) helps highlight important information. For users with cognitive disabilities, consistent and clear emphasis makes it easier to understand the structure and navigation of the page.
Hierarchy
A clear hierarchy among headings, paragraphs, and actions enables users to quickly understand the structure of a page. For screen readers, semantic hierarchy in HTML tags is critical for effective navigation.
Movement
Animations and movements should be minimal, controlled, and can be disabled. Excessive movement can distract or harm people with attention disorders or sensitivity to motion (such as vestibular disorder).
Proportion
Maintaining correct proportions between text, buttons, and images prevents confusion and improves focus. Text that is too small or tiny buttons harm accessibility for people with visual impairments or motor limitations.
Repeating Pattern
Using consistent patterns (such as button design or menus) makes learning and use easier. In accessibility, fixed patterns help users understand how to perform different actions in the interface, even if they have partial vision or understanding.
Repetition and Consistency
Consistency in design – such as the predictable placement of buttons or icons – helps establish habits and reduces cognitive load. In accessibility, consistency is essential for users who rely on visual memory or who learn to use an interface gradually.
Rhythm
Visual rhythm is expressed through repetition, consistent structures, and guiding the eye between content sections. In accessible design, balanced rhythm helps users with cognitive disabilities read and focus on content.
Unity
Unity in design creates a harmonious overall experience, where all interface components feel cohesive. In accessibility, unity maintains clear consistency that facilitates navigation, pattern recognition, and overall system understanding.
Universal Design
Universal design focuses on creating interfaces that meet the needs of a wide range of users – not just people with disabilities, but also elderly people, people in temporary situations (such as a broken arm), or users in changing environmental conditions. The principle: when you design for the margins, you create solutions that work well for everyone.
Variety
Visual variety contributes to aesthetics, but in accessibility, you must balance variety with consistency. Using diverse colors, shapes, and typography should be done carefully to avoid confusing or overwhelming the user.
visual focus indicator
A visual focus indicator is a visual marker (such as a frame or line) that shows the user where they are located when navigating using the keyboard. It is very important to keep it clear and distinct to enable independent navigation without a mouse, especially for users with motor disabilities or blindness.
White Space
Proper spacing between elements prevents visual clutter and improves readability. People with dyslexia or visual processing difficulties benefit from clear spacing to understand content and focus on key points.