A Review of some of the AODA requirements?

The Ontario Government announced an audit blitz this fall pertaining to compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (“AODA”). The blitz focuses on two specific AODA requirements, namely the requirement to prepare a multi-year accessibility plan and the requirement to put in place individual workplace emergency response plans for employees with disabilities

All organizations must create individual workplace emergency response plans for employees with disabilities under the AODA Employment Standard. This requirement is engaged where individualized information is necessary and the employer is aware of the need for accommodation. An individual plan may be necessary, for instance, where there is a fire alarm, power outage or security incident.

The individual workplace emergency response plan should be put in place as soon as practicable once the employer becomes aware of the accommodation need. In addition, employers should ensure that the plan is updated to reflect changes, including when the employee moves to a different location within the organization, the employee’s accommodation needs change, and when the employer’s general emergency response policies are reviewed.

How often is accessibility reviewed at your company?

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