Achieving Accessibility in Manitoba: Navigating Compliance with the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA)
This course is designed to guide organizations in Manitoba through the requirements of the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA). Participants will learn to develop accessibility plans, comply with accessibility standards, and create inclusive environments by addressing barriers in policies, practices, and infrastructure.
The training will focus on understanding the AMA’s accessibility standards for customer service, employment, information and communications, transportation, and the built environment. It will also emphasize the importance of proactive planning, consultation with persons with disabilities, and fostering organizational accountability.
AMA Compliance Course Overview
This course is designed to guide organizations in Manitoba through the requirements of the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA). Participants will learn to develop accessibility plans, comply with accessibility standards, and create inclusive environments by addressing barriers in policies, practices, and infrastructure.
Course Duration
2 Days (16 hours)
- Day 1: AMA Overview and Accessibility Standards (Modules 1–3)
- Day 2: Accessibility Plans, Feedback Mechanisms, and Compliance Strategies (Modules 4–6).
Format:
- Virtual or In-person sessions.
- Interactive workshops, case studies, and hands-on exercises.
Assessment:
- End-of-course quiz
- Practical assignment: Drafting an organizational accessibility plan
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the Accessibility for Manitobans Act and its legal obligations.
- Develop and implement accessibility plans that comply with AMA standards.
- Establish effective feedback mechanisms to address barriers proactively.
- Ensure compliance with accessibility standards in customer service, employment, information, transportation, and public spaces.
- Foster a culture of accessibility and inclusion in their organizations.
Materials Provided:
- Course slides and handouts
- Accessibility checklists and templates
- Sample accessibility policies
- Certificate of completion
This course structure ensures organizations in Manitoba are well-equipped to comply with the AMA, fostering accessible and inclusive environments for all Manitobans.
Target Audience
Need AODA/ACA Compliance Help?
Is Your Organization Undergoing an Audit? Need Expert Help with Your Compliance Report?
Course Curriculum
Day 1: Overview and Accessibility Standards
Module 1: Introduction to the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA)
Objective: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the AMA’s purpose, principles, and legal requirements.
Topics Covered:
- History and Purpose of the AMA
- Enacted in 2013 to address barriers faced by persons with disabilities.
- Goal: A fully accessible Manitoba by 2023 and beyond.
- Legislative Framework:
- Scope of the Act and its applicability to public, private, and non-profit organizations.
- Key Principles:
- Proactive barrier prevention and removal.
- Equal access for all Manitobans.
- Enforcement and Penalties for Non-Compliance:
- Overview of inspection, compliance measures, and penalties under the AMA.
Activities:
- Group discussion: The impact of accessibility legislation on organizations and communities in Manitoba.
Module 2: Understanding Accessibility Standards under the AMA
Objective: Learn about the AMA’s five accessibility standards and their application.
Topics Covered:
- Customer Service Accessibility Standard:
- Requirements for providing accessible goods and services.
- Training employees to interact with customers with disabilities.
- Employment Accessibility Standard:
- Accessible recruitment, hiring, and workplace accommodations.
- Individualized accommodation plans.
- Information and Communication Accessibility Standard:
- Ensuring accessible formats and communication support.
- Digital accessibility aligned with WCAG guidelines.
- Transportation Accessibility Standard:
- Accessible public and private transportation services.
- Requirements for vehicles, routes, and service disruptions.
- Design of Public Spaces Accessibility Standard:
- Accessibility requirements for new and redeveloped spaces.
- Key elements: parking, paths of travel, and outdoor public spaces.
Activities:
- Case study: Examining compliance strategies in customer service and employment.
Module 3: Practical Application of Accessibility Standards
Objective: Apply knowledge of the standards to identify barriers and propose solutions.
Topics Covered:
- Identifying Barriers:
- Types of barriers (physical, attitudinal, technological, systemic).
- Practical Exercises:
- Conducting accessibility audits.
- Developing action plans for barrier removal.
Activities:
- Hands-on activity: Performing a mock barrier identification audit in small groups.
Day 2: Planning, Feedback, and Compliance
Module 4: Developing Accessibility Plans
Objective: Learn to create, implement, and maintain accessibility plans.
Topics Covered:
- Accessibility Plans under the AMA:
- Legal requirements for public sector organizations.
- Setting goals and timelines for barrier removal.
- Best Practices for Accessibility Planning:
- Incorporating feedback from persons with disabilities.
- Aligning plans with organizational priorities.
- Monitoring and Updating Plans:
- Regular reviews and updates to ensure ongoing compliance.
Activities:
- Workshop: Drafting an outline of an accessibility plan tailored to a specific organization.
Module 5: Establishing Feedback Mechanisms
Objective: Create accessible and effective feedback systems to identify barriers and solutions.
Topics Covered:
- Legal Requirements for Feedback Mechanisms:
- Accessible methods for collecting feedback (e.g., forms, online platforms, in-person).
- Encouraging Participation:
- Strategies to engage persons with disabilities and other stakeholders.
- Responding to Feedback:
- Addressing concerns and documenting actions taken.
Activities:
- Group activity: Designing a feedback mechanism for a hypothetical organization.
Module 6: Compliance, Monitoring, and Cultural Change
Objective: Build strategies for sustained compliance and foster a culture of accessibility.
Topics Covered:
- Compliance Monitoring:
- Techniques for tracking progress and identifying non-compliance.
- Preparing for audits and inspections.
- Building Organizational Commitment:
- Training staff and leaders on accessibility practices.
- Promoting accessibility as a core organizational value.
- Preparing for Future Standards:
- Staying informed about evolving accessibility standards and updates.
Activities:
- Final workshop: Conducting a mock compliance audit to evaluate organizational accessibility.
Each module is structured to provide both theoretical understanding and practical application through interactive discussions, real-life examples, and hands-on activities, ensuring participants are well-equipped to meet AODA compliance effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
All employers, employees, volunteers, and contractors working in organizations with more than one employee in Ontario are required to complete AMA compliance training.
We offer both online and in-person training options to provide flexibility and convenience for your team.
Non-compliance can result in significant fines:
- Up to $50,000 per day for individuals.
- Up to $100,000 per day for corporations.
Our training program simplifies the process by offering practical insights and step-by-step guidance. It is tailored to meet the needs of different organizations, ensuring employees understand their responsibilities and how to implement accessibility practices effectively.
Small businesses can achieve compliance by:
- Training their staff.
- Creating an accessibility plan.
- Following the customer service standard.
- Ensuring communication and websites are accessible.
Our training program provides tailored solutions for small businesses.