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a consultation function and provides trainings and reference materials. In order to help organizations to
understand better what they have to do, the Accessibility Directorate developed for example the AODA
Compliance Wizard, which outlines after a short questionnaire the requirements for each organization,
according to its type, size etc. Requirements are explained in a simply manner, outlining the timeframe for
compliance, along with templates for accessibility plans, videos, links to detailed information if requested. Also
other organizations, such as GAATES, developed reference and training materials.
12. Monitoring is relying on an online reporting system (a test consisting of Y/N answers to 12 questions which
could be improved). Reporting is staggered (every 2 to 3 years) and regards the standard which is coming into
effect, e.g. at the end of 2013 there will be the reviewed standard on customer services. All obligated
organizations must submit their accessibility reports and, if needed, they can get assistance. Various audits e.g.
the quick view, the more into depth, etc., are undertaken by the Accessibility Directorate (information is not
public yet). The enforcement and compliance process is still a challenge, as one still needs to find effective ways
to monitor, audit and work with the obligated organizations to ensure their compliance. Currently the
Accessibility Directorate looks into the possibility to integrate accessibility inspection into environmental and
housing inspection. Another of the suggestions now reviewed is to make the online reports public, and to get
the public and DPOs involved.
I
NNOVATION
According to the Second Legislative Review report of the AODA by Mayo Moran (“Moran Report”), the AODA is no
ordinary piece of legislation. Created against the backdrop of an increasingly rights-conscious society, the AODA is a
novel and ambitious means to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities. The AODA authorizes the Government to
establish accessibility standards by regulation. Accessibility standards are a critical part of the AODA. The standards set
out requirements for the identification, removal and prevention of barriers that keep persons with disabilities from
participating fully in all aspects of society. The standards also contain time periods for implementing the required
measures. During the consultations for the Review, overwhelming support was expressed for the vision of accessibility
behind the AODA.
F
ACTS ON
O
UTPUT
(W
ITH
A
DDITIONS FROM THE
Z
ERO
P
ROJECT
T
EAM
)
As of November 2014, five standards have been established in regulation under the AODA. As well, enhanced
accessibility standards for the Built Environment have been incorporated into the Building Code, effective January 1,
2015.
One-third of the Municipalities (150 in total) established Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committees (MAACs).
Ontario’s accessibility act affects 360,000 businesses and organizations throughout the province. According to the
self-reporting system of approximately 900 organizations 90% reported to be compliant with the Accessibility
Standard on Customer Services. Moreover, there is unexpected impact going beyond what was originally intended