Integrated Accessibility Standard

As well as compliance with the 13 requirements of the Customer Service Standard, the Integrated Accessibility Standard, published on June 7, 2011, requires all private and public companies to be in compliance with the 

Emergency Response and Planning for customers and employees with disabilities.  These pieces needed to be completed by January 1, 2012. 

The Integrated Accessibility Standard has specific compliance requirements in the areas of Information and Communication and Employment.  As well, this Standard requires all public and private companies to do the following:

• Develop an organizational statement of commitment to the values of accessibility. 
• Have a plan that covers how the company will prevent and remove barriers to accessibility (i.e., visible or invisible).  The plan has to be reviewed and updated at least once every five years
• Training in accessibility and disability as it relates to the Human Rights Code. 

When planning for compliance, it is important to develop key partnerships as more complex standards are implemented across the province.  I can support your company to meet accessibility compliancy requirements by making accessibility a natural part of your business.  In addition to providing subject matter expertise and/or consulting support, I can develop and deliver training on the Ontario Human Rights Code and accessibility policy development. 

As the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005)(AODA) is implemented throughout the province there is potential for future change.  To learn more about compliance and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities visit:  www.accessibilitycompliance.ca .  My goal in the next couple of months is to allow companies to discover and share some of the evidence that is required to ensure compliance with the many components of the Integrated Accessibility Standard.

Can you share any examples of compliance with the Integrated Accessibility Standard?

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 @ 416-579-1035 or sandra_broekhof@sympatico.ca or visit www.accessibilitycompliance.ca