There are some common misconceptions about the final proposed built
environment standard under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities
Act (AODA). This post is dedicated to clarifying a few of these
misunderstandings.
Misconception number 1: The final proposed accessible built
environment standard is a regulation.
Answer: No, the final proposed accessible built environment standard is not yet
a regulation.
Misconception number 2: The proposed standard includes the
topic of retrofits.
Answer: No, the final proposed standard does not include the topic of
retrofits.
Why the misconception? The word retrofitting is used to mean
that existing buildings or structures will be legally forced to become
accessible by a specific date. After public review, the provincial government
decided the accessible built environment standard at this time would only
affect the
building of new structures and major renovations to existing
buildings.
Misconception number 3: The proposed standard takes effect as
of the year 2014.
Answer: No, a date cannot be presumed until the proposed standard becomes a
regulation. The date this standard will take effect remains unclear. People can
speculate on when they believe the accessible built environment standard will
become a regulation but they are merely guesstimates.
So, as we learn about the proposed accessible built environment standard
created under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, it
is vital to know when we or our experts are guessing as opposed to what
information is confirmed. Until a proposed standard becomes a regulation, what
we read is written by esteemed standards committees who provided their
expertise. I have read many versions of draft proposed standards.
What are some of your mis-conceptions about the
built environment 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
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