What do companies have to do to comply with the Integrated Accessibility Standard?

*      Public and Private Sector – large and small organizations

All companies should to provide leadership, guidance and support to all parts of the company to ensure compliance with the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service Regulation by January 2012.  The development and implementation of the Accessibility Leadership which can develop a  Compliance Strategy.  The establishment of an Accessibility Leadership Committee is best practice.  This committee would guide the development of a multi-year plan as well as annual revisions and updates to ensure that it meets the requirements of the AODA and the needs of customers

*      Make accessibility a natural part of your business

The requirement to establish accessibility policies is best met by a consistent approach, so that the company’s messages and intention to provide high quality, accessible customer service is consistently shared with and applied to the all customers.

*      Leverage Accessibility with other related Issues (e.g., Corporate Social Responsibility)

Continuous consultation with key stakeholders is important for success.  A key partnership  would form a positive relationship with the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario.  It is the commitment of the Directorate to aid in the compliance of all companies across Ontario

*      Create Policy (An accessible Customer Service Policy and a Multi Year Accessibility Plan)

Accessibility planning draws on previous best practices to ensure that new accessibility standards and best practices are implemented consistently, effectively and efficiently across the organization. The strategy will inspire managers and employees to consider accessibility in everything they do. It will also help the company become a leader in accessibility and create a more a diverse and inclusive workforce.

What else can your business to do  to ensure compliance with the Integrated Accessibility Standard  of the AODA?

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