Implementation of the Customer Service Standard, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

PDAD&C #22, 2009-2010

To: PDAD&C
From: Angela Hildyard, Vice-President Human Resources & Equity
Date: September 29, 2009
RE: Implementation of the Customer Service Standard, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) was passed by the Ontario Government, Ministry of Community, and Social Services; with the goal of establishing a "fully accessible" Ontario by 2025.The Customer Service Standard is the first of five Standards to become law. All Ontario Universities must comply with the Customer Service Standard by January 1, 2010.Requirements for the University Under the StandardA requirement of the Customer Service Standard is to provide information to all employees regarding the delivery of service. For the University the legislation applies to everyone who interacts with a student, future student, or member of the public.Tools to AssistInformation Tools have been developed in order to assist units to be in compliance with this requirement. These tools will be shared at the PDAD&C meeting on October 1, 2009 and are available through Andrea Carter, Employment Equity Officer and AODA Advisor (416) 978-8167 or https://webmail.utoronto.ca/imp/message.php?index=22534

Implementation and ComplianceEach division will have a divisional liaison officer who will ensure your division's compliance and who can be contacted for further information. In addition, you can contact Andrea Carter, the Employment Equity Officer and AODA Advisor, (contact info above) if you require any further information or assistance.Please note that non-compliance may result in fines ranging from 5 to 10 thousand dollars per day of offence. Obligations will be monitored by the Ministry of Community and Social Services through reports, spot checks, and audits.For further information please visit: http://www.aoda.utoronto.ca/