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OS Digital Accessibility Acquisition Resources

Disclaimer: This page contains links to external websites that provide more information. HHS is not responsible for the accessibility conformance of external site content. Links to external information and products are not an endorsement by any HHS entity. By following a link, the user is subject to the destination site's privacy policy and/or terms of service.

Handouts

Contact the OS Accessibility Program for consultation or further training on accessibility in acquisition.

  • Digital Accessibility in Acquisitions

Tools

The tools do not reduce the need to include accessibility in each step. The calculators are gauges to reach adequate conformance on schedule and within budget.

  • ICT Conformance Risk in a Life Cycle
  • Content State Risk Calculator

The intent of the checklist is to guide project teams and acquisition professionals. It identifies Section 508 criteria for the acquisition process.

  • Section 508 Checklist for Acquisitions

Contract Language

Assume Section 508 language is required for contracts that include ICT. Section 508 language must be inserted as a standalone section covering the entire contract.

Note 1: The HHS Product Accessibility Template (PAT) is no longer valid. Record product conformance using ITI's Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) or relevant HHS conformance checklist(s).

See the HHS Digital Accessibility Acquisition Requirements for minimum required language to be inserted into all solicitation and contract documentation.

Note 2: In March 2024, a HHSAR deviation was issued that updates the clauses where Section 508 language needs to be included. The new 352.239-78 Information and Communication Technology Accessibility Notice and 352.239-79 Information and Communication Technology Accessibility clauses are applicable to all procurements that include ICT.

Technical Guidance

  • Acquisition Guidance on the Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT®) and Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR)

Additional Resources

  • Revised Section 508 and Section 255 Standards
  • ITI's Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT)
  • GSA's Accessibility Requirements Tool (ART)
  • GSA’s Section508.gov Buy or Sell Accessible Products
  • GSA's Section508.gov Design and Develop Accessible Products
  • GSA's Section508.gov Test for Accessibility
  • USWDS Using Color

Contact the OS Accessibility Program

Direct feedback to the OS Digital Accessibility Program.

Content last reviewed June 10, 2024
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