Principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians for Disabilities Act

The Standards of the AODA and the Accessibility for Ontarians for Disabilities Act talk about principles of Accessibilities.  These principles are important for people with disabilities as they help achieve accessibility.  These principles as they move to practices that help with full inclusion.  These principles include dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity.  We must start to discuss the meaning and practice of each principle to help form the practices of a barrier free Ontario. Organizations must create policies, practices and procedures that are guided by the principles. 

What does the principle of equal opportunity mean?

In general, equal opportunity means that people with disabilities have an opportunity to equally participate or access goods or services.  This means that they have the same chances, options, benefits and results as others.  People with disabilities should not have to make any more significantly effort to access a good or service.  It should not be an inconvenience.  This helps maintain that equal opportunity have the same chances, options, benefits and results as others.  Sometimes, equal opportunity can be best reached by taking steps to ensure that individuals need are taken into account when planning the goods or services. 

The staff needs to assist people with disabilities to understand the variety of products available, especially if the customer cannot access the goods or services.  The customers need to be listened to ensure that each good and service is granted. 

Can you share any examples of how a good or service is designed to respect the principle of equal opportunity for people with disabilities?

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