Integrated Accessibility Standard

Within in the disability community, there is a large discussion around how many organizations are not in compliance with the AODA customer service standard and have not begun planning for compliance with the Integrated Accessibility Standard.  I thought I would review each of the questions to help you ensure you are in compliance.  I am discussing the requirements for the Integrated Accessibility Standard.  Please let me know how far in compliance you are.

Employment Standard

Scope and interpretation

20. (1) The standards set out in this Part apply to obligated organizations that are employers and,

(a) apply in respect of employees; and

(b) do not apply in respect of volunteers and other non-paid individuals.

(2) In this Part, a reference to an employer is a reference to an obligated organization as an employer unless the context determines otherwise.

What does it look like for you to check yes to this question??

The employment accessibility standards apply only with respect to the employment of individuals. They do not apply to the engagement of volunteers and other “non-paid” individuals. It is interesting to note that “employee” is not a defined term in the Final Regulation, so it remains to be seen how broadly it will be interpreted, and whether it will apply to dependent or independent contractors, or to employee-like relationships (e.g. office holders).

In general (and subject to a few exceptions), the compliance timeframes for the employment accessibility standards are:

January 1, 2014 – large designated public sector organizations;

January 1, 2015 – small designated public sector organizations;

January 1, 2016 – large private and not-for-profit organizations; and

January 1, 2017 – small private and not-for-profit organizations.

I believe that this is necessary for some but a benefit for all.  Can you think of ways this may help you access information about employment?

Is there anything else that could be done to ensure that a compliance with this requirement?

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