New AODA Accessibility Requirements for Employers Effective January 1, 2017

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and related standards drive to a vision of an accessible Ontario by 2025.  A staged process of enforcement of accessibility requirements has been undertaken. 

Effective January 1, 2017 here’s what businesses and non-profits need to do:
  
If you have 1 – 49 Employees:
-  Make your HR practices accessible
-  Make your public information accessible when asked

If you have 50+ Employees:
-   Make new or redeveloped public spaces accessible.

If you have 20+ employees:
-   Submit your accessibility compliance report by December 31, 2017.  It will include questions about your compliance with all accessibility requirements currently in effect.

Learn more about your requirements at ontario.ca/accessibility.

Implications for Occupational Therapists

​Occupational therapists have unique skills to contribute to the achievement of accessibility standards whether in home and community design, customer service, employment, etc. and are well served to be familiar with the province's Accessibility Laws and Standards.    OSOT urges members to seek opportunities to contribute to the achievement of accessibility standards whether consulting to communities, employers, builders, communicators or the public at large.

Be sure you're familiar with the Accessibility Directorate's resources and supports for employers.  For example, take advantage of a free webinar March 14th and/or sign up for updates & resources to be delivered to your inbox.


If you are interested in networking around opportunities to promote OT services in relation to the AODA requirements please contact OSOT.