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
    • Remove physical and digital barriers that prevent accessibility.
    • Develop and implement accessibility policies and staff training.
    • Provide accessible customer service, including communication supports.
    • Ensure equal employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
    • Maintain accessible public spaces, including pathways, parking, and service areas.
    • Ensure that websites and mobile applications meet accessibility standards.
    Specific Responsibilities for Website Owners
    • Ensure compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 AA.
    • Provide alternative text for images and multimedia.
    • Enable keyboard navigation and avoid inaccessible elements.
    • Ensure compatibility with screen readers and assistive technologies.
    • Implement accessible online forms with clear labels and error identification.
    • Provide captions and transcripts for all multimedia content.
    • Maintain high-contrast text and resizable fonts for readability.
    Additional Requirements
    • Websites must comply with WCAG 2.0 AA standards.
    • Provide captions and transcripts for all multimedia content.
    • Ensure accessible online forms with clear labels and error identification.
    • Implement high-contrast text and resizable fonts for readability.
    • Ensure compatibility with assistive technologies such as screen readers and speech-to-text tools.
    Data Subject 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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