Happy New Year? AODA Requirements Coming Into Force On January 1, 2015

As described in previous Blakes Bulletins, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) requires public and private organizations in Ontario to take proactive steps to eliminate barriers to the participation of individuals with disabilities in Ontario society. The Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR) enacted under AODA creates obligations in various areas, including information and communications, employment, transportation and the design of public spaces. The IASR also requires organizations to implement various accessibility policies and plans and to conduct staff training.

The IASR applies to all organizations that provide goods, services or facilities to the public or other third parties and have at least one employee in Ontario. The deadlines for private sector compliance with the IASR requirements are staggered and, in many instances, depend on whether a company is a small organization (an organization with at least one but