Accessibility Policy
Last Revised: 09/05/2024

Policies, Practices, & Procedures

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (“the AODA”) is a Provincial Act with the purpose of developing, implementing, and mandating accessibility standards to achieve accessibility for persons with disabilities in respect to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures, and premises.

Statement of Commitment

Audertist Originals is committed to providing a respectful, welcoming, accessible, and inclusive environment for all persons with disabilities, ensuring that their dignity and independence are upheld. We aim to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to ensure that everyone can fully engage with our services.

We are dedicated to meeting all legislative requirements related to accessibility and to continuously improving our practices to support an inclusive environment.

Accountabilities and Responsibilities

Leadership Team:

  • Govern the policy and ensure its integration throughout the organization.
  • Promote understanding and sensitivity towards disability and accommodation needs.

Directors and Managers:

  • Foster open communication and respect confidentiality.
  • Raise awareness and facilitate understanding of the policy.
  • Support and cooperate in facilitating workplace accommodations.

Employees:

  • Participate in and cooperate with accommodation processes.

Human Resources:

  • Act as a resource for all parties involved.
  • Support and educate managers on their obligations.

General Definitions

  • Accessible Formats: Formats such as Braille, large print, or audio that are accessible to persons with disabilities.
  • Assistive Device: Tools that assist with functional abilities, such as wheelchairs or hearing aids.
  • Barrier: Anything that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in society.
  • Communication Supports: Supports such as sign language or plain language that facilitate effective communication.
  • Disability: Includes physical, mental, learning, and developmental disabilities, among others.

A. Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation Policy

Purpose and Background
The Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (Regulation 191/11) under the AODA outlines standards to enhance accessibility in:

  • Information and Communications
  • Employment

Accessibility Plan
Audertist Originals will develop a multi-year Accessibility Plan to meet the IASR standards. This plan will identify and address barriers, and will be reviewed at least every five years. Annual status reports will be prepared and made available in accessible formats upon request.

(1) Training
Timely training will be provided to all relevant persons, including employees, contractors, and volunteers, aligning with IASR requirements and Human Rights Code. Training records will be maintained.

(2) Information and Communication Standards

(a) Feedback
Processes for feedback will be accessible and available in various formats upon request.

(b) Accessible Formats and Communication Supports
Information will be provided in accessible formats upon request and notifications will be made about the availability of these formats.

(c) Accessible Websites and Web Content
All websites and web content will conform with WCAG 2.0 Level AA.

(3) Employment Standards

(a) Recruitment
Accommodation availability will be communicated to applicants with disabilities.

(b) Assessment and Selection
Accommodations will be provided during the assessment or selection process as requested.

(c) Notice to Successful Applicants
Successful applicants will be informed of policies regarding accommodations for employees with disabilities.

(d) Informing Employees of Supports
Employees will be informed of accessibility policies and accommodations.

(e) Accessible Formats and Communication Supports for Employees
Accessible formats and supports will be provided to employees upon request.

(f) Workplace Emergency Response Information
Individualized emergency response plans will be provided as needed.

(g) Documented Individual Accommodation Plans
Individual accommodation plans will be developed and maintained for employees with disabilities.

(h) Return to Work Process
A documented return to work process will support employees returning from disability-related absences.

(i) Performance Management, Career Development, and Redeployment
Accessibility needs will be considered in performance reviews, career development, and redeployment.

B. Accessibility Standards for Customer Service Policy

Statement of Commitment and Accountabilities
Audertist Originals is committed to providing accessible goods and services. We ensure that all individuals have equal opportunities to benefit from our services in a manner that respects their dignity and independence.

Scope
This policy applies to all interactions with employees and customers via various communication methods and applies to all staff involved in public interactions.

Customer Service Policy, Practice, and Procedure

(1) Provision of Goods and Services
Efforts will be made to ensure accessibility by considering individual needs and providing services in an inclusive manner.

Best Practices
Employees will be proactive in removing barriers and communicating available accommodations.

(6) Training
Training will cover the AODA, customer service standards, and best practices for interacting with persons with disabilities.

(7) Notice of Disruptions in Service
Advance notice will be provided for service disruptions affecting customers with disabilities. Information will be available on our website.

(8) Feedback Process
Feedback can be provided through various methods and will be acknowledged within specified time frames. Feedback can be sent to: [your email address].

(9) Availability and Format of Documents
Documents related to accessibility policies will be available in accessible formats upon request. Notices will be posted on our website.

Administration

For questions or concerns about this policy, please contact: [email protected]