Accessibility Legislation in Ontario

Ontario Human Rights Code

Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, everyone has the right to equal treatment without discrimination. Its accommodation policy states that instances of discrimination must be remedied unless the solution would cause undue hardship. The Ontario Human Rights Code holds power over the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and it's regulations.

Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is a law in Ontario that allows the government to develop specific standards of accessibility and enforce them. These standards are made into laws called regulations, and they provide the details to help meet the goal of the AODA.

Accessibility standards

The Integrated Accessibility Standards or IASR are regulations established through the AODA to help organizations in Ontario provide more accessible services and opportunities for people with disabilities. These standards set requirements in several key areas, including:

• Customer Service
• Design of Public Spaces
• Employment
• Information and Communication
• Transportation

Standards are reviewed at least every five years, after which new requirements may be added. Ontario organizations will move step-by-step toward accessibility that is widespread and commonplace. The goal of the Act is to reduce and remove barriers for people with disabilities so that Ontario will become more accessible and inclusive by 2025.

Accessibility in Ontario's Building Code

Within a building, the accessibility of most elements is regulated by the Ontario Building Code (OBC).

The 2012 building code defines the minimum accessibility requirements for most new construction and extensive renovations of buildings. These include requirements for:

• barrier-free access paths of travel
• fire safety devices
• public washrooms
• access to pools and saunas
• seating in public spaces

The requirements apply to most new construction and extensive renovations in Ontario, and work together with the design of public spaces standard.

Existing buildings are not affected unless an extensive renovation is planned.

Houses, including semi-detached houses, townhouses and duplexes are affected by smoke alarm requirements, but are not affected by most of the other accessibility requirements.

It is important to note that even if the OBC and the AODA are complied with, all landlords, employers and service providers should be aware of potential human rights complaints under Ontario's Human Rights Code as they relate to accessibility to their buildings and services.