The first accessibility standard under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is now law. Businesses will have to comply with the Accessible Customer Service Standard as of January 1, 2012. To meet this date, businesses should start building accessibility into business plans and corporate cultures now.
In 2005, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) became law. Under this legislation, the Ontario government is developing mandatory accessibility standards that will identify, remove and prevent barriers for people with disabilities in key areas of daily living. The standards will apply to public and private sectors across Ontario.
The goal is to make incremental improvements to achieve an accessible Ontario by 2025.
On January 1, 2012 all restaurants, hotels, motels and tourism establishments must be in compliance with the Accessible Customer Service Standard.
Accessible Customer Service Standard
The Accessible Customer Service Standard applies to all organizations that have one or more employees in Ontario and that provide goods or services to the public or another organization.
One of the requirements of the Accessible Customer Service Standard is that you develop customer service policies, practices and procedures for serving people with disabilities.
There are two Ontario regulations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 that pertain to the Accessible Customer Service Standard:
Other Accessibility Standards
The following accessibility standards are still in development:
- Employment
- Information and Communications
- Transportation
- Built Environment
Tools From ORHMA
Keep Checking Here for more resources from ORHMA to help you comply with the Accessible Customer Standard!
Industry Case Studies:
ORHMA has developed 9 hospitality industry related case studies that showcase accessible customer service practices. We spoke to many of our members and appreciate the support of the following establishments who shared with us their stories and acknowledge them as Accessible Ambassadors.
ORHMA/TIAO Partnership
Click on the link below to view more information and resources.
Tools from The Government of Ontario
The Accessibility Directorate of Ontario offers free resources to help organizations understand and comply with the Accessible Customer Service Standard including:
Read reports from the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) accessibility within the hospitality industry:
Accessible Tourism Around The World