Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)

    Overview 

    The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) was enacted in 2005 to develop, implement, and enforce accessibility standards across Ontario. The Act aims to remove barriers for individuals with disabilities in goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, and digital access. AODA applies to public and private sector organizations, requiring them to implement accessibility measures to ensure compliance by January 1, 2025. 

     

    Regulation Summary

    Timeline
    • June 13, 2005 – AODA enacted.
    • January 1, 2012 – Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR) takes effect.
    • January 1, 2021 – Websites and mobile applications required to meet WCAG 2.0 AA.
    • January 1, 2025 – Full compliance deadline for organizations under AODA.
    What Businesses Are Affected
    • All public and private sector organizations in Ontario, including:
      • Government offices, municipalities, and public institutions.
      • Retail, hospitality, and healthcare providers.
      • Businesses with 50+ employees must meet additional reporting requirements.
      • Websites and mobile applications that provide services to Ontario residents.
    Exemptions
    • Small businesses with fewer than 20 employees have reduced compliance obligations.
    • Private clubs and religious organizations operating exclusively for members.
    • Certain historical buildings where modifications would alter their fundamental structure.
    Responsibilities for Businesses
    • Develop and implement accessibility policies and provide staff training.
    • Remove physical and digital barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from accessing services.
    • Provide accessible customer service and communication supports.
    • Offer equal employment opportunities and reasonable accommodations.
    • Ensure that digital content and public spaces are designed to support inclusion, including adherence to WCAG 2.0 AA for digital platforms.
    Specific Responsibilities for Website Owners
    • Ensure websites and mobile apps comply with WCAG 2.0 AA.
    • Provide descriptive alternative text for images and multimedia.
    • Enable full keyboard navigation and avoid inaccessible elements.
    • Ensure compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers and voice recognition software.
    • Support customization features such as resizable fonts, high-contrast modes, and readable layouts.
    Additional Requirements
    • Provide captions and transcripts for all multimedia content.
    • Maintain accessible online forms with clear labels and real-time error identification.
    • Implement adjustable visual settings, including font size and contrast.
    • Include a mechanism for users to report accessibility issues directly through the website or app.
    Individual Rights
    • Equal access to goods, services, and digital platforms.
    • Right to file complaints with the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal.
    • Right to request reasonable accommodations.
    • Right to take legal action for non-compliance.
    Enforcement
    • Regulatory Authority: Government of Ontario & Accessibility Directorate of Ontario.
    • Penalties:
      • Fines up to $50,000 per day for individuals violating AODA.
      • Corporations can face fines up to $100,000 per day for ongoing non-compliance.
      • Additional penalties include court-ordered corrective measures and mandatory compliance reporting.
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