Accessibility report on the customer service standard

Question 1 b?

Does your organization use reasonable efforts to ensure that these policies are consistent with the principles of independence, dignity, integration and equality of opportunity?


The second part of this question deals with the principles as presented in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). These principals are important to customers with disabilities, as well as other Ontarians. These principles allow people with disabilities to fully participate in all parts of life of Ontario.


Let’s discuss what some of these principles mean according to the AODA.


Dignity means that the customer with a disability feels valued and gets the full services of any other customer. This means that your service delivery takes into account how people with disabilities can be shown respect while accessing your goods and services.


In terms of people with disabilities, independence means freedom from control and the ability to make your own choices and do things your way. In terms of serving customers while keeping this principle in mind, this means that a staff member takes her/his time to ensure the customer’s needs are met.


The simplest definition of integration is allowing all customers with disabilities access to the same services. This could mean that they benefit the same level of service, in the same way as customers with no disabilities. This may mean that there are alternative measures made to ensure the customer with the disability has access to the same service.


Equal opportunity means that you are giving the same chance, options and choices as customers with no disabilities. This may mean that customers should not have to make a significant effort to access your good or service.


What do these principles mean to you and how your company/organization is run?


If you are interested in learning more about Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) or how to make accessibility a natural part of your business through the application of Corporate Social Responsibility, please contact Sandra Broekhof @ 416-503-1035 or sandra_broekhof@sympatico.ca or visit www.accessibilitycompliance.ca