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A detailed model of heritage buildings showing accessibility features, with text about AODA compliance prominently displayed above, illustrating how to make heritage buildings accessible under AODA.
Blog, Compliance, News

How to make Heritage Buildings Accessible Under AODA

In today’s rapidly evolving urban landscape, the integration of accessible features into new and modern buildings has become a standard practice. However, there is often a significant gap in this progressive approach when it comes to our cherished heritage buildings. These historical structures, rich with cultural and architectural significance, frequently lag in accessibility. As we strive for a more inclusive society, it is crucial to explore and implement innovative solutions that make these historic buildings accessible to everyone. 

A modern office setting features a group discussing the essential role of accessibility audits in achieving compliance, highlighting chairs, a wheelchair, and a staircase.
Blog, Compliance, News

The Essential Role of Accessibility Audits in Achieving Compliance

Disability affects many Canadians. Over 22% currently have a disability and this figure increases to 38% for those over 65. With 1.85 million Ontarians affected, the prevalence of disability is expected to grow from one in six today to one in five in the next 20 years. These numbers will have an increasing influence on many Canadians as they consider the accessibility of businesses and services, often influenced by family members or friends with disabilities.

A person using a laptop displaying a 'Digital Accessibility' webpage, with a modern workspace featuring a plant and notebook in the background, navigating AODA compliance.
Blog

Navigating AODA Compliance: Success Stories from Ontario Municipalities

Accessibility Partners has been at the forefront of ensuring that municipal services and communications in Ontario are inclusive and accessible to all, aligning with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) standards. With our expertise, we have helped municipalities make significant strides towards AODA compliance, fostering greater community inclusivity. This blog covers our experiences with two (anonymous) municipal projects, shedding light on the intricacies and achievements involved in reaching AODA compliance.

A woman in a wheelchair and a man in a suit are engaged in a conversation, with a screen displaying a translation service in the background, highlighting the importance of accessibility in hiring and recruitment.
Blog

The Importance of Accessibility in Hiring and Recruitment

In today’s evolving marketplace, accessibility in hiring is a legal requirement. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) alongside other Canadian legislations, such as the Canadian Human Rights Act and provincial codes, mandate and set the framework for inclusive recruitment practices. But the implications of these policies stretch well beyond compliance; they pave the way for a diverse, innovative, and adept workforce that is imperative for sustainability.

A modern office showcasing work models from an accessibility perspective, featuring a wheelchair user at a desk, surrounded by accessible workspaces and employees collaborating overhead.
Blog, Compliance, News

Work Models from an Accessibility Perspective

The seismic shift in our work culture post-2020 has turned long-held assumptions about the workplace upside down. Organizations are now more open to a spectrum of work models, from fully remote to the traditional office, and everything in between. With these changes, it’s imperative to examine how each model caters to the needs of the entire workforce, including individuals with disabilities. In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll probe into the core concepts of accessibility and its implications for remote, in-person, and hybrid work models.

A person in a wheelchair sits in front of a TV displaying a video about using captions to enhance understanding of content, highlighting the importance of AODA Creating Accessible Transcripts and Captions for Videos.
Blog, Compliance, News

AODA-Creating Accessible Transcripts and Captions for Videos

In our increasingly visual and digital world, video content dominates online platforms. But what good is a compelling video if it excludes a significant portion of your audience? For anyone subject to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), video accessibility is not just optional—it’s essential. With the AODA accessibility standards in full swing, there’s a mandate to ensure all content is welcoming to everyone, regardless of their abilities. This is where accessible transcripts and captions for videos play a pivotal role in inclusive (empathetic) digital engagement.

A diverse group of professionals, including members of the Accessibility Advisory Committee, is seated around a large table in a modern conference room, with a wheelchair symbol on the wall.
Blog

Why You Should Establish an Accessibility Advisory Committee

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring that services and products are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities, is not just a legal requirement but also a moral necessity. One of the most effective strategies to achieve this is by establishing an Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC). Here are some compelling reasons why your organization should consider forming an AAC:

A vibrant city plaza showcasing the spirit of the Accessible Canada Act, with diverse people, including wheelchair users, engaging in various activities, surrounded by lush greenery and modern urban architecture.
Blog

A Quick Guide to the Accessible Canada Act

The Accessible Canada Act (ACA), enacted in 2019, represents a significant step forward in creating a barrier-free Canada. This legislation aims to identify, remove, and prevent accessibility barriers in areas that fall under federal jurisdiction. Here’s a quick guide to understanding the ACA and its impact on businesses and individuals.

A stylish small business interior featuring clothing racks, accessories, and a sign promoting AODA compliance in small businesses, highlighting accessibility and inclusivity.
Blog, Compliance, News

Navigating AODA Compliance: A Guide for Small Businesses

Navigating the complexities of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) can be daunting for small business owners. However, compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a step towards creating a more inclusive environment for customers and employees alike. This guide provides practical insights and steps for small businesses to understand and implement AODA standards effectively.