What is the next step in AODA compliance? The Employment Standard

The AODA Employment Standard deadlines are not as far away as they may seem. The Employment Standard is one of five accessibility standards under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. It outlines accessibility requirements employers must meet throughout the employment life-cycle.

Since January 1, 2012, all employers in Ontario have had to prepare individualized workplace emergency response information for employees with disabilities. Large public sector employers have had to be compliant with the remaining requirements under the Employment Standard since January 1st of this year.

All private sector employers and small public sector employers have upcoming obligations. The next phase of Employment Standard compliance may require significant reform to policies and procedures. It is advisable that employers plan ahead. The deadlines for compliance are as follows:

·       Small public sector (fewer than 50 employees): January 1, 2015

·       Large private sector (50 employees or more): January 1, 2016

·       Small private sector (fewer than 50 employees): January 1, 2017

The AODA Employment Standard includes requirements at every stage of the employment relationship including recruitment, return to work, performance management, career development and redeployment.

One area where the Employment Standard outlines more comprehensive requirements is with respect to documented individual accommodation plans. Employers are required to create a process for the development of individualized accommodation plans for employees with disabilities. The process must address a variety of issues including the manner in which the employee may participate in the development of the individualized accommodation plan, when an employer may request an independent medical examination, and steps that will be taken to protect the employee’s privacy. Small private sector employers are exempt from this requirement. However, it is a best practice to comply, as having a formal procedure in place will be an asset for employers when accommodation needs arise in the workplace.

How far along to compliance is your organization?

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