WCAG vs EN 1090
WCAG
Global standard for web accessibility to people with disabilities
EN 1090
EU standard for steel and aluminium structures execution
Quick Verdict
WCAG provides testable web accessibility guidelines globally for inclusive digital experiences, while EN 1090 mandates structural steel/aluminium execution controls in EU construction for CE marking and safety. Organizations adopt WCAG for compliance/UX; EN 1090 for legal market access.
WCAG
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2
Key Features
- POUR principles organize comprehensive accessibility requirements
- Testable success criteria at A/AA/AAA conformance levels
- Technology-agnostic for all web content and platforms
- Backward-compatible additive versioning preserves policy stability
- Normative criteria separated from evolvable techniques
EN 1090
EN 1090 Execution of steel and aluminium structures
Key Features
- Risk-based Execution Classes EXC1-EXC4
- Factory Production Control FPC certification
- Mandatory CE marking for EU market
- Welding quality management via ISO 3834
- Material traceability and NDT inspection
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
WCAG Details
What It Is
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 is the W3C's technology-agnostic standard for accessible web content. It provides testable requirements to make digital experiences usable for people with disabilities, covering visual, auditory, motor, cognitive needs. Built on a layered model: principles, guidelines, success criteria, techniques.
Key Components
- **POUR principlesPerceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust.
- 13 guidelines with ~90 success criteria at A/AA/AAA levels.
- Normative success criteria; informative techniques/failures.
- Conformance requires full pages, complete processes, accessibility-supported tech, non-interference.
Why Organizations Use It
Mitigates ADA litigation risk, meets procurement mandates (Section 508, EN 301 549). Enhances UX, boosts conversions (e.g., 23% uplift), expands market reach. Builds reputation, reduces support costs, aligns with global regs like EAA.
Implementation Overview
Phased program: policy, assessment, remediation, training, CI/CD integration, audits. Applies to all orgs with web presence; AA baseline recommended. No formal certification; self-assess via audits, VPATs, user testing. Ongoing via design systems, monitoring.
EN 1090 Details
What It Is
EN 1090 is a harmonized European standard family for the execution and conformity assessment of structural steel and aluminium components. It implements the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR), enabling CE marking. The primary scope covers fabrication, assembly, and assessment of load-bearing components for construction works. It uses a risk-based approach via Execution Classes (EXC1–EXC4) scaling requirements by consequence, service, and production categories.
Key Components
- **EN 1090-1Conformity assessment, Factory Production Control (FPC), Declaration of Performance (DoP).
- **EN 1090-2/-3Technical rules for steel/aluminium (welding, tolerances, corrosion protection, inspection).
- Core pillars: FPC certification, welding quality (ISO 3834), material traceability, NDT. Notified Body audits ensure compliance.
Why Organizations Use It
Mandatory for EU market access via CE marking; reduces liability, ensures safety. Benefits include risk mitigation, rework reduction, and competitive tendering. Builds stakeholder trust through certified quality.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, FPC development, personnel training, NB certification, surveillance. Applies to fabricators in construction; suits SMEs to enterprises. Requires Notified Body involvement for FPC and ongoing audits. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | WCAG | EN 1090 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Web content accessibility for disabilities | Structural steel/aluminium fabrication execution |
| Industry | All web/digital content globally | Construction/metal fabrication in EU/EEA |
| Nature | Voluntary W3C guidelines/reference standard | Mandatory harmonized CPR standard for CE marking |
| Testing | Automated/manual/AT/user testing ongoing | FPC certification, NB audits, surveillance |
| Penalties | Litigation/reputational risk, no direct fines | Market exclusion, fines, certificate suspension |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about WCAG and EN 1090
WCAG FAQ
EN 1090 FAQ
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